VANCOUVER – Canadian crime drama series Endgame premiered for U.S. audiences this week on Hulu and the Hulu Plus subscription service.
Produced by Thunderbird Films in association with Front Street Pictures, the series stars Shawn Doyle as a former world chess champion who uses his analytical skills to solve crimes. It premiered in March 2011 on Shaw Media-owned Showcase and earned five Gemini nominations, but was not renewed for a second season.
Lionsgate acquired the series for North American distribution, and Endgame is distributed internationally by Endemol.
"The emergence of new digital partners like Hulu has dramatically extended the longevity and significantly increased the syndication opportunities for premium content like Endgame”, said Lionsgate president of worldwide television and digital distribution, Jim Packer, in the announcement. “Lionsgate is committed to remaining an innovator in creating and distributing content that will be successful on digital and traditional platforms alike."
"We're very proud of Endgame, and we're delighted to partner with two visionary companies like Lionsgate and Hulu," added Michael Shepard, Thunderbird Films’ executive producer and president. "Having a U.S. partner on a procedural drama is an important boost in realizing the long-term value of any franchise, and we believe that Hulu's commitment to the show will expand its audience and increase its value worldwide for many years to come."
