Rainmaker strikes content & channels distribution pact with EW Scripps

Saints & Sinners

UK distributor Rainmaker Content has inked a deal with The EW Scripps Company to represent its original programming and networks outside of the US.

The new relationship marks the first time that Scripps has partnered with a third party to distribute selected channels, such as Court TV, Court TV: Legendary Trials and Scripps News, whilst also offering original programming and series from their other networks, including ION and Bounce as well as the Scripps National Spelling Bee.

Under the deal, Rainmaker will represent Bounce titles including comedy series Act Your Age and long-running primetime drama Saints & Sinners. From Court TV it will add to its catalogue unscripted content including Someone They Knew With Tamron Hall, while programming from Scripps News includes Next Level and The Why.

Rainmaker will also distribute the annual Scripps National Spelling Bee, the longest-running educational competition in the US, having launched in 1925, as well as The Bounce Trumpet Awards, which celebrate outstanding African American humanitarians and achievement.

Tom Zappala, SVP of content and programming strategy at The EW Scripps Company, said: “Scripps has built a library of unique and compelling content over the years which has had virtually no prior exposure in territories around the world – until now. We believe Rainmaker is the perfect partner to take our programming across the globe.”

Rainmaker Content, which took a minority stake in The Madame Blanc Mysteries producer Saffron Cherry Productions late last year, is also in a strategic alliance with Finnish indie Take Two Studios. Under the deal, Rainmaker advises on programming and strategy and has first look rights on all Take Two output.