Viacom snatches Channel 5 rights from DRG

Viacom International Media Networks has taken on rights to UK terrestrial Channel 5’s in-house production arm going forwards.

The shows from 5Production previously went out through Viacom distribution rival DRG, which will retain rights to previous Channel 5 shows.

Viacom bought Channel 5 in 2014, and the move is the latest example of the subsequent consolidation of the broadcaster into the wider VIMN group.

The deal comprises new titles such as Tattoo Disasters, which already has been sold to the ABC in Australia; and includes third-party content such as Lip Sync Battle UK, which is Channel 5-Whizz Kid Productions remake of the Viacom-sold US lip-syncing format.

New Channel 5 shows heading to Cannes next week with Viacom include 3x60mins Tribal Teens and 6x60mins Heists That Shook the World.

“We are incredibly excited to add the Channel 5 portfolio of quality content to our slate ahead of MIPTV 2016,” said Caroline Beaton, VIMN’s senior VP, international programme sales. “This agreement sees us cementing our productive collaboration with our colleagues at Channel 5, with both camps equally excited to bring these latest hit shows from the UK down to Cannes.”