Microsoft and Viacom Partner Up

 

Microsoft and Viacom jumped in bed for a five year co-venture valued at $500 million. In the agreement between the web behemoth and the media conglomerate, Microsoft partnered to access Viacom’s catalog of content shown across its vast network that includes BET, MTV, Comedy Central and Paramount Pictures.  The content will be shown on Microsoft’s MSN website and incorporated into its XBox internet platform, with Viacom and Microsoft sharing revenue for ads shown across all of their platforms.  Ad revenue will be tracked by AdManager, a recent Microsoft acquisition.  For the full story, click HERE 

In addition, MTV is partnering with Jerry Bruckheimer to develop original programming for its video game division.  Viacom recently infused $500 million into this division.  Bruckheimer will be bringing his big-budget Hollywood expertise to the gaming world, a first for him.   Known for his exploding cars and special effects, MTV is depending on the producer to produce original content which can then be transformed into movie(s) or TV shows, depending on the game’s success.  For more on this historic pairing, click HERE