Viaplay operator NENT strikes Sony co-production, output deal

Once Upon A Time In Hollywood

Nordic Entertainment (NENT) Group has struck a co-development and co-production deal with Sony Pictures Television (SPT), as part of an expanded content partnership agreement.

NENT will work with SPT to co-develop and co-produce up to six original scripted series for the Nordic company’s streamer Viaplay. Details of projects remain under wraps, but NENT said the first series would begin shooting in 2020.

The pact comes less than a week since NENT revealed it is planning to sell off the entirety of its non-scripted production and branded entertainment interests, as it looks for an equity partner to help fuel its huge scripted output.

The Sony deal will also see Viaplay customers and those of Viasat pay-TV channels remain the first in the Nordic region to see the latest films and series from Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE), while also being able to watch extensive library content.

Filippa Wallestam

SPE film titles which will be coming to NENT Group’s services in early 2020 will include Once Upon A Time In Hollywood, Charlie’s Angels and Spider-Man: Far From Home, as well as Jumanji: The Next Level, Little Women and Bad Boys For Life.

SPT series such as The Blacklist, Outlander and Lincoln will be available, as well as The Good Doctor, S.W.A.T., Seinfeld and The Goldbergs.

Filippa Wallestam, NENT’s chief content officer, said: “We have built a true partnership that enables us to explore innovative and flexible approaches to content together. This extended agreement is broader than ever and ensures our viewers can continue to enjoy Sony’s latest and greatest films and series.

“We are also delighted that Sony will bring their expertise and global reach to no fewer than six Viaplay originals as we take our unique Nordic storytelling to audiences around the world.”

Mark Young, EVP of distribution & networks in Western Europe for SPT, added: “At such a dynamic time in our industry, NENT Group have established themselves as market leaders in providing quality content production and fully-integrated broadcasting and streaming services in their region – and we are thrilled to continue our relationship.”

NENT already has extensive output deals with Hollywood companies including NBCUniversal and MGM.