Syfy takes linear UK rights to Extant

NBCUniversal’s UK pay TV channel Syfy has bought exclusive broadcast rights to CBS event series Extant.

The show will debut on the NBCUniversal-owned network on Tuesday, January 20 in a 9pm slot following Syfy’s deal with CBS Studios International.

Amazon Prime Instant Video launched the show in the UK after striking an agreement for streaming rights.

Halle Berry (Monster’s Ball) stars in the series as an astronaut that tries to reconnect with her family after years alone in space. Her experiences ultimately change the course of human history.

“Making its UK television debut, Extant is a bold and compelling series from some of the most high-profile names in Hollywood, both on and off-screen,” said Nicky Douglas, managing director for the UK, Universal Networks International.

“The gripping plot will take Syfy viewers on an extraordinary journey that explores outer space, alien life forms and artificial intelligence in a not-too-distant future, something that truly fulfills the channel’s ‘Imagine Greater’ promise.”

The show has sold to various territories since launching to strong ratings last summer. Japanese paycaster Wowow secured rights last month in one recent deal, while new Canadian on-demand service Shomi also acquired it.