ABC Family Scores TV Rights for 'Hunger Games' & Sequel
The Hunger Games had an impressive opening with roughly $155 million in sales, and it is already in the works for the film(s) to roll out on your TV screen. ABC Family is that lucky network to score the TV rights for the franchise. Just exactly how they did that hasn't been revealed.
The network also landed the rights for the second film of the series, Catching Fire--which is set to hit theatres November 22, 2013. The films will not air on TV until 2014, however.
From THR:
As part of the pact, the Disney-owned cable network will also get the network premiere rights to Catching Fire, the second film in the Hunger Games franchise set to hit theaters on November 22, 2013. The films will begin airing in 2014, joining a collection of movies (including the Harry Potter franchise) and upcoming seriesBunheads, Baby Daddy and Beverly Hills Nannies on the millenial-focused network's schedule.“This tremendous opening weekend reinforces what we have already learned -- a powerful heroine, themes of romance and iconic characters will keenly resonate with our Millennial audience," says ABC Family president Michael Riley. "This franchise will continue to enhance our network for years to come.”
Adds Lionsgate president of worldwide television and digital distribution Jim Packer: “With its exciting programming lineup and the ongoing expansion and diversification of its core demo, we believe that ABC Family is the perfect home for The Hunger Games and Catching Fire, and we expect these first two installments of our franchise to resonate with audiences for many years.”
Is ABC Family the right network for this? What network would you rather have scored the rights?
Photo from THR.