AMC locks up 'Godfather' films until 2019

Guess AMC made Paramount an offer it couldn't refuse.

AMC has struck a deal with Viacom's Paramount Pictures to make the network the exclusive basic cable home of "The Godfather" trilogy --- until 2019.

The deal covers an unprecedented nine-year run on AMC.

Financial terms weren't disclosed.

The "Godfather" deal further heightens competition between emerging original programming powerhouse AMC and pay TV channels HBO and Showtime. The deal includes the rights to air the three "Godfather" movies and a collection of documentaries and behind-the-scenes footage from Paramount's library on AMC, which will also offer the movies on demand.

"The Godfather is recognized as one of the greatest sagas ever told on film," said Tom Halleen, AMC’s Senior Vice President of programming and scheduling. "AMC is proud to be the exclusive long-term basic cable home to this incredible franchise, for the next decade. The Godfather acquisition, as well as our ongoing commitment to quality original series, underscores AMC’s promise to provide the best stories on television. The latest investment further represents AMC’s commitment to continually expand its extensive movie library."