Universal Music Group has partnered with Lionsgate on a multi-year, first-look television deal under which the companies will develop original scripted and unscripted projects drawn from UMG’s portfolio of labels, artists and music.
Lionsgate and Polygram Entertainment, UMG’s film and television production and development division, will work together to combine “artistry, stories and recordings” from the music company’s labels including Capitol, Def Jam, Interscope, Island, Republic, Universal Music Nashville, Universal Music Latin Entertainment, Verve, Motown and Blue Note to produce premium programming.
UMG will also produce soundtrack albums associated with projects created under this agreement.
“We’re thrilled to expand our relationship with Universal Music Group, one of the world's most innovative music companies and home to some of the greatest musical talent and recordings in existence,” said Lionsgate Television Group chairman Kevin Beggs. “With Polygram, UMG has produced award-winning films and we can't wait to see what we can accomplish together in television. We see so much opportunity for storytelling in the talent and properties that UMG represents, and we look forward to working together to bring these incredible stories to life in a way that resonates with a global audience.”
“We’re excited to partner with Lionsgate, one of the premiere entertainment companies in the world, to create an unmatched opportunity for our artists and labels and the stories they inspire, as well as draw from the goldmine of genres, time periods and legendary figures represented by our rich and storied catalog,” said Michele Anthony, EVP of UMG. “Polygram has quickly become a home for Hollywood’s brightest creators and this partnership is a significant step in our television and audiovisual strategy, as well as our evolution as a global media company.”
“I’ve long respected Lionsgate for the incredible film and television projects they’ve brought to audiences around the world,” said David Blackman, head of film and television, development and production, UMG. “There’s never been a more exciting time to be in the music space and I feel fortunate to be at a company that is uniquely positioned at the intersection of film, television and music with an unrivaled roster of artists who continue to impact culture globally. With this new partnership, we’re perfectly positioned to deliver thrilling music-driven stories that will excite fans for years to come.”
This announcement builds on Lionsgate and UMG’s track record with film scores and soundtracks including La La Land (Interscope), Hunger Games (Republic) and Divergent (Interscope).
The deal follows the announcement of an exclusive long-term agreement under which Universal Music Publishing Group will represent Lionsgate’s music publishing properties worldwide, including musical compositions and scores. UMPG will also administer Lionsgate’s music rights, including licensing, revenue collection and accounting.
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