'Ugly Betty' goes free on 4oD

Channel 4 has signed a deal with Disney-ABC International Television to make ABC Studios' shows including Ugly Betty available in a free-of-charge, ad-supported format on its 4oD via PC service.

The free and ad-supported on demand window extends to 30 days from the initial television broadcast of ABC programmes.

The arrangement starts with tonight's episode of Ugly Betty and will also cover subsequent seasons of Desperate Housewives, Brothers and Sisters, Reaper and Dirty Sexy Money.

"We want Channel 4 viewers to be able to see our shows in a format, time and platform to suit them and to make the process as simple as possible," said Jeff Ford, Channel 4's director of acquisitions and Film4. "This deal means that viewers can now catch up on some of their favourite US shows, alongside home grown product, free of charge at a time convenient to them which can only be good news."

Multiple adverts and sponsorship packages will cover on demand transmissions during the free window.

"We’re committed to working with partners who have strong brands in the digital space, like Channel 4, to enhance consumers’ viewing experience of our content, and expand its distribution," said Jim Brehm, senior vice president of sales at Disney-ABC International Television. "Building on this partnership, we’re pleased to bring these series to UK viewers in a free, ad-supported model for the first time, allowing them to enjoy these much talked-about shows whenever, wherever and however they wish."

At present the arrangement does not extend to 4oD on digital cable.