ITV buys into Cirkus SVOD service

ITV has acquired a stake in Cirkus, the ‘best of British’ subscription VOD service operator.

The UK broadcaster has acquired a minority stake in the company, which launched last year. Currently focussed on the Nordic territories, it provides a branded SVOD services, programmed with content from the UK, for pay TV operators.

TBI broke the news of the launch of Cirkus and its subsequent deal with Nordic pay TV operator Boxer. It also has deal with Swedish cabler Com Hem. The ITV deal was announced this morning.

Cirkus already has a programming deal with ITV’s content arm ITV Studios and Cirkus co-founders, Hugh Williams told TBI this morning that the deal with the broadcaster cemented that agreement.

It also has content deals with All3Media International, BBC Worldwide and Endemol Worldwide Distribution.

Neither party would clarify the size of the stake acquired by the ITV but it is understood to give the broadcaster a significant minority share in the on-demand business.

Dan Gopal, senior VP, global digital media at ITV Studios Global Entertainment, joins the board of Cirkus in the wake of today’s deal.

He said: “Cirkus is a compelling service that offers a wide choice of the British series that Nordic audiences love so much, available on demand for consumers to enjoy at their convenience. We are delighted to be partnering with this Nordics success story and look forward to working with them as they continue to grow.”