South Park creators' online deal

In Media Guardian, Anthony Lilley argues that an online distribution deal between South Park creators Matt Stone and Trey Parker and Viacom could be the shape of things to come.

The interesting thing about the new South Park deal is the terms. Parker and Stone have got a big cash advance and a 50/50 split of ad revenues, which are clearly seen as the major way that profit is going to be made. Now this deal clearly has a lot to do with the fact that it also bundles in a commitment to three more seasons of Comedy Central's most iconic show. Let's not get carried away that any old producer could demand terms like these, but it's indicative of the way the wind is blowing.