'All My Children,' 'One Life to Live' to Run on Hulu, iTunes

First-run episodes to air on free Hulu.com service; iTunes, Hulu Plus subs gain TV Everywhere access

By Tim Baysinger -- Broadcasting & Cable, 1/25/2013 1:50:58 PM

Prospect Park's The Online Network (TOLN) announced Friday it has cut a deal with Hulu and iTunes to distribute new episodes of its soap operas, All My Children and One Life to Live, beginning in the spring.

The agreement with Hulu will allow viewers to see first-run episodes via the free Hulu.com service, and Hulu Plus subs will also gain access on connected TVs, mobile phones, tablets and PCs. The iTunes deal also extends viewing to iPhone, iPad, iPod touch and Apple TV.

After being canceled by ABC in 2011, Prospect Park officially announced its plans to revive the long-running soaps online earlier this month.

"I believe that both Hulu and iTunes have the vision, the reach and the technology to help us launch TOLN in a significant way," said Jeff Kwatinetz, Prospect Park's chairman and CEO. "We think these platforms are part of history, helping us to transform distribution. Hulu's reach, platform and advertising prowess are best in class, and iTunes provides an incredible way to buy TV shows that is second to none. Through both of these partners, we hope daytime drama fans are absolutely delighted to be able to watch their favorite programs in a broadcast-quality HD format wherever and whenever they want."

Hulu will manage the advertising sales for both shows, and package integrated sponsorship opportunities. TOLN will also offer ecommerce and other digital marketing programs to brands and entities.

Separately, Prospect Park has closed its financing with media-focused private equity investment firm ABRY Partners.