Universal Films Will Hit Peacock As Soon as 45 Days Starting in 2022

Universal Pictures’ films have received a new theatrical window model, and will arrive on Peacock as soon as 45 days after their release. NBCUniversal announced on Thursday that most films will arrive on the streaming service 45 days after they hit theater and Premium Video on Demand starting with their 2022 slate.

The big exceptions to this rule are their big tentpole event films, such as Jurassic World: Dominion and Minions. The new distribution model will maintain Universal’s existing PVOD deals with exhibition venues.

“As we continue investing in the most valued and sought-after content for Peacock, films are essential to that mix,” said Kelly Campbell, President, Peacock. “The team at Universal Filmed Entertainment Group are fantastic partners and we are excited to bring their amazing slate of blockbuster films and beloved franchises to Peacock as early as 45 days after their theatrical release, and provide a steady stream of fresh, original films exclusively for Peacock customers throughout the year.”

Among Universal’s 2022 theatrical releases are films from Universal Pictures, Focus Features, Illumination, and DreamWorks Animation. They include the espionage film The 355 with Jessica Chastain, Penélope Cruz, Bingbing Fan, Diane Kruger, and Lupita Nyong’o; Blumhouse’s The Black Phone starring Ethan Hawke; DreamWorks Animations’ The Bad Guys; Michael Bay’s new action thriller Ambulence, and slasher sequel Halloween Ends, the latter of which saw its immediate predecessor Halloween Kills hit Peacock day-and-date with theaters in October.

“Prioritizing the theatrical experience and eventizing our world class content remains the cornerstone of our business,” said Peter Levinsohn, Vice Chairman and Chief Distribution Officer, UFEG. “By ensuring our upcoming slate has both a theatrical window and timely Peacock debut, we satisfy the needs and expectations for key stakeholders across the spectrum, from our filmmakers and producing partners, to cinemagoers and Peacock subscribers.”