DirecTV, Starz Entertainment Ink Expanded Distribution Deal

DirecTV has inked a new multi-platform distribution deal with Starz Entertainment that will enable the latter to bolster its TV Everywhere foray.

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The new pact, for which financial terms were not disclosed, includes Starz’ premium channels, HD offerings and on-demand options. What's more, it grants DirecTV the right to offer Starz and Encore online services on its DirecTV Everywhere service, which is currently in beta. The new deal also will allow DirecTV to launch Movieplex, Indieplex and Retroplex and the related Web and on-demand services on the latter, which is for authenticated Starz Super Pack subscribers.

"We are pleased that the Starz and Encore premium channels and service are a part of our DIRECTV Everywhere platform," said Derek Chang, DirecTV’s EVP Content Strategy and Development in a statement. "Providing our STARZ Super Pack subscribers with online access to their subscription content from Starz through DirecTV Everywhere later this year will bring even more value to our customers.”

Added Ed Huguez, president of affiliate distribution for Starz Entertainment in a statement: “DirecTV and Starz have a long, symbiotic relationship going back to the early 1990s, and I am very pleased that we are able to extend and expand our existing business relationship. With great movies, Spartacus, and Magic City, the value proposition for subscribing to our multi-platform premium programming has never been better.”