In a move that should make traditional video operators stand up and take notice, Netflix has agreed on a deal with Twentieth Century Fox Television and Imagine Television to bring original, first-run content to the Web video giant's subscription service.
That content is "Arrested Development," the quirky Fox show that went off the air in 2006 after three highly regarded – if not highly watched – seasons. The program will return with new episodes in 2013, exclusive to Netflix in the U.S.
"Netflix's bold entrance into original programming presents an exciting new opportunity for our two companies," said Peter Levinsohn, Fox Filmed Entertainment's president of new media & digital distribution. "Bringing a classic show back to production on new episodes exclusively for Netflix customers is a game changer, and illustrates the incredible potential the new digital landscape affords great content providers like Twentieth Century Fox Television and Imagine."
"Of all the projects we've been involved with over the years, we probably get more questions about Mitch Hurtwitz's brilliant 'Arrested Development' than any other – everyone, ourselves included, seems to feel like the Bluths left the party a bit too soon," said Imagine Entertainment co-founders Ron Howard and Brian Grazer, in a statement. "Bringing a series back from cancellation almost never happens, but then, 'Arrested' always was about as unconventional as they get, so it seems totally appropriate that this show that broke the mold is smashing it to pieces once again."
"Arrested Development" won the Emmy Award for Outstanding Comedy Series in its first season. The show starred Jason Bateman as a relatively normal guy surrounded by an eccentric family. No word yet which members of the ensemble cast will be returning.
