STV nixes networked film for 'South Park'

STV will pull out of ITV1's networked Monday night movie and replace it with a run of South Park.

The broadcaster, which holds the two Channel 3 franchises in Scotland, has acquired seven episodes of the animated series' twelfth season as part of a new programming and co-production deal with Comedy Central.

"It’s fantastic to bring something fresh, edgy and a little bit unexpected to the STV schedule, which we’re hoping will help us tap into a younger audience in the weeknight schedule," said STV director of content Alan Clements. "South Park, in addition to the raft of Scottish-produced commissions we’re working on, alongside strong network programming, will make for a very diverse STV schedule with something for everyone."

Last month, STV said it would replace ITV flagship drama Lewis with locally produced programmes and vowed it would become more independent from the national network by seeking agreements with other broadcasters.

The first episode of South Park to go out on STV as part of the new Comedy Central deal will air at 10:35pm on April 20.