Nothing is coming between Netflix and The CW. The streamer has enjoyed being the exclusive U.S. home of previous seasons of the network’s scripted shows, and that is not going to change anytime soon. A new multiyear deal announced by Netflix and The CW today means that we can look forward to streaming favorites like Arrow and Jane the Virgin for the foreseeable future, plus upcoming shows to premiere during the 2016-2017 season.
Netflix and The CW Network — itself a joint venture between CBS Corporation and Warner Bros. Entertainment — announced a partnership in 2011, and it has been going strong ever since.
“Since the initial landmark deal in 2011, The CW’s programming has enjoyed tremendous success and increased exposure through Netflix, and our new agreement not only continues but enhances this valuable relationship,” said Mark Pedowitz, president of The CW, in a statement. “The CW has positioned itself for the future by transforming into a true hybrid network, rooted in broadcast while fully embracing the digital and streaming habits of the viewers.”
The network makes perfect sense for a Netflix partnership. Although it doesn’t enjoy the same viewership as the same viewership as major networks like NBC, ABC, and CBS, it successfully targets a young adult audience, namely the 18-34 demo. The age group may make up only a subset of TV viewers, but it is one that is more likely to stream TV series than its older counterparts are.
“Netflix members in the U.S. love the great lineup of series from The CW, and we are thrilled to extend the relationship and bring those shows to our members exclusively now, just eight days after their season finales,” said Ted Sarandos, Netflix’s chief content officer.
With the extended deal, all previous seasons of current CW scripted series will remain on Netflix, such as Legends of Tomorrow, Supergirl (moved from CBS), Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, The Vampire Diaries, The 100, and more. Additionally, three news series that are part of The CW’s 2016-2017 prime-time schedule will hit the streamer as well: Riverdale, Frequency, and No Tomorrow. CW binges will live on.
