Rainmaker Signs International Distribution Deal With Scripps

Rainmaker Content, a worldwide distributor specializing in drama, factual and special-event programming, has closed a deal with The E.W. Scripps Co. to represent its original programming and networks on the international market outside of the U.S.

The new relationship, which will launch officially at MIPCOM in October, marks the first time that Scripps has permitted a third party to distribute selected channels, such as Court TV, Court TV: Legendary Trials and Scripps News, whilst also offering original programming and series from their other networks, including Ion and Bounce as well as the Scripps National Spelling Bee.

Under the deal, Rainmaker will represent the most popular original titles from the Scripps national entertainment and news networks. Highlights from Bounce’s lineup include the popular comedy series Act Your Age, which follows three successful women navigating friendship, dating, their exes and their adult children in the nation’s capital; and long-running primetime drama Saints & Sinners, which centers on a Baptist church in small-town Georgia — and the startling lives of crime, deceit, lust and greed of its congregation.

From Court TV’s 1,400-plus trial vault comes non-scripted content including Someone They Knew with Tamron Hall, in which the award-winning journalist delves into riveting cases when victims know their killers; and OJ25, which takes a deep dive over 25 one-hour episodes into the world-renowned trial of OJ Simpson.

Programming from Scripps News includes Next Level, an original series that unpacks the real-world influence of gaming; and The Why, which goes in search of the answers behind the news headlines.

Rainmaker will also distribute the annual Scripps National Spelling Bee, the longest-running educational competition in the U.S., having launched in 1925, as well as The Bounce Trumpet Awards, which celebrate outstanding African American humanitarians and achievement.

Tom Zappala, Scripps senior vice-president of content and programming strategy, said: “Scripps has built a library of unique and compelling content over the years which has had virtually no prior exposure in territories around the world — until now. Our diverse entertainment library of scripted, reality, features and event programming is unrivalled, while our thriving news and court channels are distinctive and appealing. They combine to offer a terrific opportunity to content providers worldwide and we believe Rainmaker is the perfect partner to take our programming across the globe.”

Greg Phillips, co-CEO of Rainmaker Content, said: “Scripps and its networks have a global reputation for its compelling program and channel offerings. Rainmaker, meanwhile, has built a global network of relationships with premium broadcast partners, which enables us to find the best home for our growing catalogue of content. That Scripps has appointed us to distribute its channels for the first time internationally alongside their premium programming is a real vote of confidence in Rainmaker’s abilities.”