On the same day Amazon launches a competing streaming service, Netflix announces an acquired license to stream content from CBS such as episodes of “Medium” and classic TV show seasons like “Cheers.” The non-exclusive two-year agreement between the two companies gives CBS the option to extend the license for another two years if they elect to.
Not all CBS titles are included in the deal. Instead, select TV shows seem to be handpicked for online distribution. Additional titles under the licensing agreement include “Flashpoint,” “Frasier,” “Family Ties,” the original “Hawaii Five-0” series, “Twin Peaks,” “The Twilight Zone,” “The Andy Griffith Show,” and all generations of “Star Trek.”
“This deal recognizes the increasing value of our content in today’s marketplace,” said Scott Koondel, President of Distribution, CBS Television Distribution.
“We are thrilled to be bringing CBS shows to Netflix and are looking forward to growing our relationship over time,” said Ted Sarandos, Chief Content Officer for Netflix.
The CBS shows are not quite queued up the library yet, at least in our view. But, we’ll let you know as soon as the titles start appearing.
Netflix streaming-only service costs $7.99 per month for unlimited viewing.
