Netflix UK rival LoveFilm lands ABC TV streaming content

Chalk one up for Netflix's competition. The UK-based movie rental and instant streaming service LoveFilm announced this week that it has inked a new deal with ABC TV Studios, providing members unfettered access to "Desperate Housewives," "Grey's Anatomy," "Lost" and more.

ADVERTISEMENT

New seasons will be available after they've made their regularly scheduled TV run, said the company.

"LoveFilm members want top class TV shows, as well as movies, to watch instantly as part of their subscription," said Simon Calver, LoveFilm CEO. "Today's deal with Disney brings them access to some of the best American TV content ever produced."

The arrangement underscores a potential battle between the Amazon-owned LoveFilm and new kid on the block, Netflix. The Cupertino company's streaming service arrived across the pond earlier this month, bringing with it competitive prices and content.

ADVERTISEMENT

Netflix CEO Reed Hastings played down any perceived one-upmanship, naming instead Sky Atlantic as a true rival. That didn't stop Hastings from reminding British viewers that Netflix has two distinct advantages over LoveFilm.

LoveFilm currently boasts nearly 2 million subscribers. The company bowed an online-only subscription plan last month. (via Home Media Magazine)

No posts to display