Scandal goes into syndication with Viacom’s BET

Hit ABC political thriller series Scandal has gone into syndication, with Viacom channel BET launching the first two seasons this summer.

BET’s deal gives it access to each episode of the show no earlier than eight days after its original network broadcast.

Following the launch of the first pair of seasons, the third will debut exclusively off-network on BET in fall 2014.

The finale of season two on ABC scored 9.1 million viewers and is considered one of the break out hits of the fast few pilots seasons. “Scandal is a cultural phenomenon that has resonated with viewers for the past two seasons and we’re excited to be part of its continued journey,” said BET Networks chairman Debra Lee.

The show comes from ABC Studios, is sold internationally by Disney Media Distribution and locally by Disney/ABC Domestic Television.