Netflix readies simultaneous global Star Trek roll-out
Netflix is gearing up for one of the biggest launches in its history after winning exclusive rights to screen a hotly anticipated new Star Trek TV series produced by CBS across 188 countries within 24 hours of its US premiere.
Each episode will be drip fed to subscribers and made available in all licensed territories a day after its broadcast debut as part of a landmark international licensing agreement signed with the US broadcaster.
To whet the appetite of trekkies the entire Star Trek television back catalogue comprising 727 episodes of Star Trek: The Original Series," "Star Trek: The Next Generation," "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine," "Star Trek: Voyager" and "Star Trek: Enterprise" will also be made available by year’s end under the deal.
This will presage a January 2017 launch for the new franchise which is currently in production with an all-new ship, crew and storylines whilst staying true to the series roots.
Armando Nuñez, president and CEO, CBS Studios International, remarked: "The launch of the new 'Star Trek' will truly be a global television event. "'Star Trek' is already a worldwide phenomenon and this international partnership will provide fans around the world, who have been craving a new series for more than a decade, the opportunity to see every episode virtually at the same time as viewers in the U.S. Thanks to our world-class partners at Netflix, the new 'Star Trek' will definitely be 'hailing on all frequencies' throughout the planet."
The new series will also be made available on CBS All Access which allows viewers to stream live TV and access episodes on demand for $5.99 per month.