Shearman & Sterling advised Viacom International Media Networks Italia (Viacom) on its purchase from Sky Italia of the authorization to broadcast a channel on Italian digital terrestrial television and the related channel numbering. The new entertainment Channel 27 was launched by Viacom as the Paramount Channel. This transaction completes the implementation of a wider commercial transaction between Sky and Viacom signed in June 2015.

Viacom is home to premier global media brands that create television programs, motion pictures, short-form content, apps, games, consumer products, social media experiences and other entertainment content for audiences in 180 countries.

Sky is Europe’s leading entertainment company serving 21 million customers across five countries: Italy, Germany, Austria, the UK and Ireland. It offers a broad range of content and market-leading customer service and uses new technology to give customers a better TV experience.

Shearman & Sterling most recently advised Viacom on its sale of MTV Italia to Sky Italian Holdings.

The Team