Hulu, the new online video service from NBC Universal and News Corp, announced the beta launch of its online video service. Hulu will offer viewers a selection of streaming, on-demand, programming on a free, ad-supported basis. Hulu content includes full-length current and archived television programming as well as clips and an initial selection of feature films.
Hulu also announced it has signed licensing deals with MGM and Sony Pictures Television. A collection of over 40 television shows from Sony will be made available at Hulu.com, while full-length television shows and feature films from MGM will be available through the Hulu service.
Hulu will also offer content from two leading broadcast networks (Fox and NBC), over 15 cable networks (Bravo, E! Entertainment, FX, Sci Fi, USA, and more), four of the largest studios (Fox, MGM, Sony and Universal) and a number of independent, web-centric content providers. In addition, Hulu announced content partnerships with programmers Reveille, Smithsonian Networks, and World Wrestling Entertainment.
Hulu also announced it has closed a $100 million investment from private equity firm Providence Equity Partners, the leading global private equity firm specializing in media, entertainment, communications and information companies.
