Lionsgate has signed a renewal of its multiyear film licensing agreement with Starz that will bring nearly 20 Lionsgate major film titles to the streaming platform’s premium channels and services each year. This new collective deal cements an exciting slate of films for the extended partnership with the likes of Now You See Me 3, Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, a Michael Jackson biopic, and Ballerina.
This deal comes as Lionsgate moves closer to splitting its studio operations from Starz, its pay TV and streaming division. Under the new terms, Starz will maintain exclusive rights to Lionsgate’s theatrical releases during the first pay television and subscription video-on-demand (SVOD) windows. These films will debut on Starz sooner than before, closer to their theatrical release dates. Additionally, Starz will retain exclusive second and third windows for these films, reinforcing its position as a premier destination for top-tier content.
Alison Hoffman, president of Starz Networks, in a statement, said, “Movies are a critical part of our premium offering, and we’re pleased to extend our agreement with an accelerated window.”
The extended licensing agreement is part of Lionsgate’s plan to maximize the value of its films across all platforms. As the company prepares for a formal separation of its studio and Starz operations, the two entities will soon function as independent public companies. The studio business will be renamed Lionsgate Studios Corp., while Starz will operate under the name Starz Entertainment Corp.
Jim Packer, Lionsgate’s president of worldwide television distribution, said, “This newly extended deal is an affirmation of the tremendous value of Lionsgate movies in the pay television ecosystem.”
Furthermore, This long-standing partnership shows Lionsgate’s approach to fully leveraging its film and TV assets, opening opportunities across traditional and digital platforms including Starz. The renewed deal highlights Starz’s commitment to providing subscribers with exclusive access to blockbuster movies and Lionsgate’s dedication to delivering premium entertainment to audiences worldwide.