NBCUniversal Global TV Distribution and David Letterman’s production banner, Worldwide Pants Incorporated, have inked a major multi-year partnership with Turkish digital distribution and monetization company Merzigo to expand the global digital footprint of the legendary host’s late-night library.
Under this landmark agreement, Merzigo will manage the digital rights for an expansive catalog of over 6,000 classic episodes. This includes Late Night with David Letterman, which ran on NBC from 1982 to 1993, and The Late Show with David Letterman, which captivated audiences on CBS from 1993 to 2015.
Utilizing its proprietary technology and algorithmic expertise, the Istanbul-based company will distribute this massive archive across prominent global platforms, with a primary focus on driving engagement and discoverability on YouTube and Facebook. A core element of the collaboration will see Merzigo technologically optimize and enhance the vintage archival footage, upscaling the visual quality to meet the expectations of modern digital viewing experiences and high-definition screens.
This high-profile alliance further cements Merzigo’s rapid ascent in the global entertainment market. Managing more than 6,000 channels that collectively generate over 17 billion monthly views, the company adds this historic comedy library to an impressive roster of international partnerships, which already includes major deals with Steve Harvey Global and Hearst Media Production Group.
Dilip Bala, Merzigo’s managing director for the Americas, added: “By combining Merzigo’s advanced technology and algorithm expertise with this iconic content, we aim to significantly enhance discoverability and deepen audience engagement across YouTube and Facebook.”
