LOS ANGELES, and SAN BRUNO, Calif. – MGM Worldwide Digital Media and Google-owned YouTube today announced a multiple channel commitment where much of MGM`s library content will be made available on dedicated channels on the mega-popular video web site.
The first one will be called “Impact,” a channel dedicated to promoting MGM’s VOD action programming (www.youtube.com/impact), and “American Gladiators” (www.youtube.com/americangladiators), a channel which showcases highlights and full episodes from the classic the 1980s and 1990s TV show.
The release did not say whether or not these channels will be available to viewers outside the U.S. but a spokesperson confirmed they will only be available Stateside.
MGM’s “Impact” launched as a VOD offering in partnership with Comcast and has quickly become a popular on-demand offering for the MSO, amassing more than 12 million views since launching in August.
The "Impact" channel on YouTube is an extension of the brand dedicated exclusively to action programming to promote the MGM “Impact” channel. The YouTube "Impact" channel will feature a host of clips from classic MGM action films such as “Rocky,” “Ronin,” “Legally Blonde,” and “The Magnificent Seven” in addition to a sampling of action television shows and full length movies like “Lone Wolf McQuade” and “Bulletproof Monk” as well as a variety of clips from action films similar to those shown on its Comcast counterpart.
"We’re looking to mine the breadth and depth of the MGM library to build out and promote branded, multiplatform opportunities on demand, online and wherever viewers consume their entertainment," said Jim Packer, co-president, MGM Worldwide Television, in the press release.
“Our agreement with YouTube opens the door to a number of themed broadband channels that will both serve the consumers’ growing appetite for entertainment media consumption in the digital space and on demand space.”
“YouTube is committed to helping our community of fans discover new content and reconnect with their all-time favorite TV shows and movies,” said Jordan Hoffner, director of content partnerships for YouTube. “By partnering with MGM, YouTube is strengthening its position as an entertainment destination where Hollywood studios can reach a global audience and where our audience can watch their favorite full-length films, TV shows, and clips.”
The “Impact” and “American Gladiator” YouTube Channels will be refreshed with new videos every month and will be ad-supported. MGM has plans to launch additional channels on YouTube in the near future.
