NBC'S UCP AND IHEART INK PODCAST DEAL

UCP, a division of NBC Universal Content Studios, has inked a multiyear first-look deal with iHeartMedia to have a first right at adapting iHeartRadio Original podcasts for television. As part of the deal, the studio’s podcast platform, UCP Audio, will also have the option to develop and co-produce original podcast series with the iHeartPodcast Network.

iHeartRadio joins UCP’s roster of first-look deals, which include deals with Gary Dauberman, John Carpenter, Emmy Rossum (Angelyne), and Steve Piet and Erik Crary. UCP also has overall deals with Sera Gamble (The Magicians), Nick Antosca (The Act, Brand New Cherry Flavor), Sam Esmail (Mr. Robot, Homecoming) and Patrick Macmanus (Dr. Death).

UCP is the studio behind scripted fare including Dr. Death (Peacock), Mr. Robot (USA Network), The Umbrella Academy (Netflix) and more. The iHeartPodcast Network is home to more than 750 original podcasts, including shows such as “The Ron Burgundy Podcast,” “Disgraceland,” and “Chelsea Handler: Life will be the Death of Me.”

iHeartPodcast Network President Conal Byrne said, “What’s really special about this deal is that you have our team of expert podcast developers and producers, who have been working in this medium for over 10 years honing the craft of audio storytelling, partnering with L.A.’s powerhouse production studio to create and develop premium TV and film properties out of podcast IP.”

“Partnering with iHeart to not only adapt some of their enviable and extensive podcast library to television but also expand the production and reach of UCP Audio originals is a giant leap in our platform building strategy,” added UCP President Dawn Olmstead. “We look forward to making waves in the podcast space this year and we are very excited to have iHeart joining us on our endeavor.”