Universal and Peacock announced today that a new licensing agreement will go into effect in 2022, after the current deal between Universal and HBO comes to an end. The deal will include bringing all Universal Filmed Entertainment Group’s theatrical releases to Peacock exclusively for a four month window.
Currently, Universal has a deal in place with HBO that gives streaming rights to HBO Max after films leave theaters. News that NBCUniversal was considering the move to bring movies to Peacock rather than licensing content came out in April.
With the deal, Universal, Focus Features, Illumination, and DreamWorks Animation titles will be exclusively available on Peacock no later than four months following their theatrical debuts. Content will then be licensed to partners, before going back to Peacock exclusively. Additionally, beginning in 2022, original films developed and produced exclusively for Peacock by Universal Pictures will also premiere on the service.
“Since launching Peacock just one year ago, we have seen incredible viewership of movies and continue to expand our catalog with a range of films for every fan and occasion,” said Matt Strauss, Chairman, Direct-to-Consumer and International, NBCUniversal. “Universal Filmed Entertainment Group has been a fantastic partner and we are excited to not only bring their amazing slate of blockbuster films and beloved franchises to Peacock in the first-pay window, but also provide a steady stream of fresh, original films exclusively for Peacock customers throughout the year.”
Upcoming films from Universal Pictures include Jurassic World: Dominion; a new original film from Jordan Peele; new movies from DreamWorks Animation, The Bad Guys and Puss in Boots: The Last Wish; Minions: The Rise of Gru, and more.