Sony released 'The Interview' online Wednesday, and it hits select theaters on Christmas

Starz has released The Interview from its output deal with Sony Pictures.

A rep from the premium cable network issued a statement saying: "As the situation with The Interview is new territory and has been constantly evolving, Starz released the film from its output deal in order to allow Sony maximum flexibility with their distribution strategy."

Read more 'The Interview': Which Theaters Are Showing the Film on Christmas Day

Since February 2013, Starz has held exclusive pay TV rights to Sony's theatrical content through 2021. 

Sony released The Interview online Wednesday with the help of Google Play, YouTube and XBox. The film comes out in over 300 independent theaters on Christmas. 

Sony making the film available simultaneously in theaters and on VOD is unprecedented, as film exhibitors are typically strict about how soon studio films can be released on-demand.

Email: Ryan.Gajewski@pgmedia.org
Twitter: @_RyanGajewski