The Stage

Channel 4 signs content deal with YouTube

Published Thursday 15 October 2009 at 14:59 by Matthew Hemley

Channel 4 programmes are to become available free of charge on YouTube, marking the first time a broadcaster anywhere in the world has made full-length programmes accessible on the video-sharing website.

Under the terms of the deal, Channel 4 will make its own catch-up service, 4oD, available via YouTube, with programmes on offer including Skins, Hollyoaks, The Inbetweeners and Peep Show.

YouTube users will also be able to access around 3,000 hours of full length programming from the Channel 4 archive, including shows like Brass Eye and Teachers.

Content will begin appearing in the coming months and be fully available in early 2010. All programmes will be available only in the UK, free-of-charge supported by advertising.

The partnership runs for at least three years, and the two parties will share advertising revenues.

Channel 4 said the deal would “create significant value for Channel 4 and its independent production partners, generating additional revenue to invest in creating high quality, original content”.

Channel 4 chief executive Andy Duncan said: “This strategic partnership is another important milestone for us and we’re delighted to be combining the power of the 4 brand and the appeal of our content with YouTube’s unrivalled reach and reputation online.”