Netflix is getting in the doghouse: The Internet streamer inked a pact with Scholastic Media for exclusive streaming rights to the animated series based on beloved children’s classic “Clifford the Big Red Dog.”
The deal highlights the importance of kid programming to subscription VOD services. Netflix members in the U.S. and most territories worldwide will be able to watch the series beginning on Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14 — which also happens to be the colossal pooch’s birthday. Members in Brazil will be able to stream the series beginning in May.
Initially available under the deal are the first seasons of “Clifford the Big Red Dog,” comprising 40 episodes, and “Clifford’s Puppy Days” (25 episodes). The second seasons of both series will be available later in the spring, according to a Netflix rep.
The series is based on the best-selling book series by Norman Bridwell first published by Scholastic in 1963. The Clifford franchise has expanded to include 127 million books in print.
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“We are delighted to expand our relationship with Scholastic with the addition of Clifford, one of its most popular and timeless series,” Netflix chief content officer Ted Sarandos said. “Globally recognized as the lovable role model that he is, Clifford is a great addition to our catalog of family-friendly TV shows.”
On Feb. 14, in a promo stunt timed to the show’s arrival on Netflix, Clifford (or, rather, someone in a Clifford costume) will close the NASDAQ MarketSite in New York City.
