Format

Although streaming platforms have introduced innovations, they are continuously seeking ‘classic’ and ‘historical’ content in order to strengthen their position and gain credibility with the general public.
Exactly for this reason, Crave — the Canadian streaming service owned by Bell Media — has signed a deal to stream the long-running American game shows Jeopardy! (which premiered in 1964 and is now in its 42nd season) and Wheel of Fortune (which premiered in 1975 and is now in its 43rd season). Under the exclusive agreement with Sony Pictures Entertainment Canada, Crave will also license 100 episodes from each show's library. The agreement comes into effect on September 9, the day after the US launches of the 2 shows.
The deal comes amid a long legal battle between Sony and CBS over distribution rights for these two historical games, which have been produced by Sony and distributed by CBS for decades. In August 2024, Sony terminated the distribution agreement and filed a breach-of-contract lawsuit against CBS, accusing them of making unauthorised licensing deals at below-market rates, paying themselves commissions, and reducing distribution capabilities through budget cuts. However, CBS disputes these claims, asserting that Sony is trying to escape an unfavourable agreement.
The legal proceedings are still ongoing. Last June, CBS retained the distribution rights, at least temporarily, pending resolution of the legal dispute. Meanwhile, Sony pursued new streaming deals for the shows, such as with Crave.
We will see how it turns out. Regardless of the legal aspects (which are nevertheless very significant), it is worth emphasising the enormous interest these two historic programmes, which are among the most-watched television programmes ever, still generate, even more than half a century after their first broadcast.