YouTube to host MGM films

2008-11-11 10:02

Los Angeles - YouTube and Metro Goldwyn Mayer (MGM) announced on Monday that the popular video-sharing website will host some full-length television shows and films from the famed Hollywood studio.

YouTube and MGM said the partnership would start with a channel featuring episodes from the popular American Gladiators television show of the 1980s and 1990s at youtube.com/americangladiators.

Another channel, youtube.com/impact, will feature clips from action movies such as Rocky and The Magificent Seven and full-length films such as Lone Wolf McQuade and Bulletproof Monk.

YouTube and MGM said in a joint statement that the videos will contain advertising and new channels would be launched "in the near future".

Huge fan base

Google purchased YouTube in 2006 for $1.65bn and has been searching for ways to translate its immense popularity into a money-making venture without alienating its huge fan base.

YouTube has also been facing competition from other video sites such as Hulu which features a menu of full-length programming from NBC and Fox.

Under an agreement with CBS and Lionsgate studio, YouTube recently began adding episodes of classic television programmes such as Star Trek, MacGyver and Beverly Hills 90210 to its menu.

"YouTube is committed to helping our community of fans discover new content and reconnect with their all-time favourite TV shows and movies," said Jordan Hoffner, director of content partnerships for YouTube.

"By partnering with MGM, YouTube is strengthening its position as an entertainment destination where Hollywood studios can reach a global audience and where our audience can watch their favourite full-length films, TV shows, and clips."

The MGM library of some 4 000 titles includes such franchises as the James Bond and Pink Panther series in addition to Rocky.

- AFP