MTV has acquired the TV rights to Michael Jackson concert-rehearsal movie “This Is It” from Sony.
The Viacom-owned cable TV conglomerate will have access to the film starting in 2011 and will enjoy a six-year window, with the ability to run the movie on any of its networks. That includes not only the MTV flagship channel, but VH1, BET and Palladia, among other outlets.
“Michael Jackson has always been inextricably tied to our viewers as they witnessed his evolution from talented performer to global icon who redefined music,” said Van Toffler, president of the MTV Networks Music Group. “Now, with this film, we can help give his fans a chance to see his final performance.”
About to enter its fourth week of release, “This Is It” is closing in on $225 million in global box office for Sony.
