Viacom, Virgin extend UK, Ireland deal

Viacom International Media Networks (VIMN) and pay TV operator Virgin Media have agreed a multi-year distribution deal in the UK and Ireland spanning TV channels, on-demand rights and a range of new streaming applications.

The renewed partnership means Virgin Media customers will continue to have access to Viacom-owned networks such as MTV, Comedy Central, Nickelodeon, Nick Jr and Paramount Network, as well as associated catch-up rights and box sets.

In addition, the new deal will see three more of Viacom’s apps – My5, Pluto TV and MTV Play – added to Virgin Media’s user interface.

As well as providing access to Channel 5 content, My5 features programming from third-party channels including A+E and PBS America, plus a range of exclusive scripted series from the US, Australia and Israel.

Pluto TV, meanwhile, features more than 60 channels in the UK including Pluto TV Drama, Pluto TV Romance and Pluto TV Crime. The ad-supported streaming platform was acquired by Viacom earlier this year.

MTV Play will be accessible to Virgin Media’s Player TV and Mixit TV customers who already subscribe to the MTV channel.