One of the big questions has been answered today of just how fans of One Life to Live and All My Children will be able to view the returns of their beloved soaps! Many were concerned they would have to pay, or, would it be free to view?
Well in press release out this morning, Prospect Park’s The Online Network (TOLN) announced that in a groundbreaking move the company has reached an agreement with Hulu and the iTunes Store to distribute digitally all-new episodes of AMC and OLTL through the Hulu distribution agreement, the hugely popular daily dramas will reach tens of millions of fans via the free Hulu.com service, as well as millions of Hulu Plus subscribers watching on connected TVs, mobile phones, tablets and PCs. In addition, iTunes customers can enjoy viewing on iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Apple TV and their Mac or PC. The announcement was made today by Prospect Park Chairman and CEO, Jeff Kwatinetz.
The press release went on to say some very key components, which we break down for you: “Starting this spring, viewers can stream the beloved serial dramas All My Children and One Life to Live on the free Hulu.com service and the Hulu Plus subscription service. New 30-minute episodes of All My Children and One Life to Live will be introduced each weekday. This innovative content deal will re-introduce these venerable daytime hits in a new format perfect for the viewing habits of the digital generation. Prospect Park and TOLN plan to blend new themes, fresh stars and youthful energy with the familiar actors and writers who made these shows must-watch afternoon viewing for legions of loyal fans.
The agreement with Hulu also allows brands and marketers to connect with a highly desirable and engaged audience. Hulu will manage the advertising sales for both shows, and package integrated sponsorship opportunities. TOLN will also offer ecommerce and other digital marketing programs to brands and entities looking to tap into Hulu’s mass market demographic. Additionally, Hulu will promote both series across its subscription and free-to-view platforms”
Jeff Kwantinetz commented on the platforms: “I believe that both Hulu and iTunes have the vision, the reach and the technology to help us launch TOLN in a significant way. We think these platforms are part of history, helping us to transform distribution. Hulu’s reach, platform and advertising prowess are best in class, and iTunes provides an incredible way to buy TV shows that is second to none. Through both of these partners, we hope daytime drama fans are absolutely delighted to be able to watch their favorite programs in a broadcast-quality HD format wherever and whenever they want.”
News on financing: “Prospect Park has closed its financing with ABRY Partners, one of the most experienced and successful media-focused private equity investment firms in North America. Since 1989, ABRY has completed over $36 billion in leveraged transactions and other private equity investments involving approximately 450 properties. Brent Stone, a partner at ABRY Partners, stated, “We are excited to be partnering with Jeff Kwatinetz and the rest of the team at Prospect Park, and we strongly believe that they will continue to be a leader in their innovative approach to content creation.” Kwatinetz continued, “We are privileged to the have the backing and partnership with Brent and his team at ABRY, who are proven, brilliant investors, and will help us reach our ultimate goals.”
Another key part of the press release involved Agnes Nixon’s participation: “Under the leadership of Kwatinetz and Rich Frank, Prospect Park in 2011 forged a multi-year, multi-platform licensing agreement with Disney/ABC Domestic Television Group to continue production of All My Children and One Life to Live, Prospect Park has also entered into a consulting agreement with Agnes Nixon, the creator of both series, guaranteeing her active involvement in their continued production.”
So soapers, what do you think of the exciting news that you can view AMC and OLTL for free? And the another news in the press release that has Prospect Park leading the way in a groundbreaking move to show the soaps online?
debikra says: 
tkfanalways 
Expat 
Lew S. 
thomas 
Kristen Howe 
Rachel Elisabeth 
su0000 
Teri 
Christy 
D
Buddy 
Terry 
Annette P 
Blake 
emtk 
B.J. 
Maxine 
Chrissy Matteson 
Patti 
Sheryl Postin 
Johnny 
Tina Gray 
MBmomof3 
Derek 
James McDonald 
AJ 
danica 
marfa 
FRAN 
Jim 
Llanviewer717 
No1_ILoveLucyFan 
M. Hilton