Key Takeaways
- CBS and Sony Pictures Television have settled their dispute over the distribution rights to "Jeopardy!" and "Wheel of Fortune."
- CBS will remain the exclusive domestic distributor of the shows through the 2027/2028 season, after which Sony Pictures Television will take over.
- CBS will exclusively lead all advertising sales through the 2029/2030 season.
- Marketing, promotions, and affiliate relations will transition to Sony at the end of the 2025/2026 season.
- International distribution rights will move to Sony from December 1, 2025.
- Both companies emphasized an "amicable resolution" and a commitment to continue delivering the shows to audiences worldwide.
CBS and Sony Resolve Distribution Dispute Over ‘Jeopardy!’ and ‘Wheel of Fortune’
CBS and Sony Pictures Television have ended their year-long battle over the syndicated distribution rights to the popular game shows "Jeopardy!" and "Wheel of Fortune." The two companies announced that they have reached an agreement, resolving the conflict that arose after Sony informed CBS Media Ventures of its intention to take over global distribution of the shows. CBS, owned by Paramount, had contested this move, claiming it was "false," particularly after Sony had initially filed a breach of contract suit the previous year.
The initial dispute centered on Sony’s accusations that CBS had been licensing the shows at "below market" rates, failed to maximize advertising revenue, and undercut the shows through "self-preferencing." The legal battle escalated in April when a Los Angeles Superior Court judge granted a preliminary injunction to Sony Pictures Television, effectively denying CBS’s attempt to block Sony from distributing the high-profile shows. However, in May, CBS briefly regained the rights until the case reached a final resolution.
Amidst the legal wrangling, Sony pursued alternative distribution strategies. In June, Sony secured multi-year streaming deals for both "Jeopardy!" and "Wheel of Fortune" with Peacock and Hulu. These deals allowed both streaming platforms to offer the shows the day after their linear airing. Sony Pictures Television Chairman Keith LeGoy clarified that these streaming rights were "completely separate" from the ongoing syndicated distribution deals, emphasizing Sony’s commitment to diversifying the shows’ availability.
The recent agreement marks a significant turning point in the relationship between CBS and Sony regarding these iconic game shows. As part of the settlement, CBS will retain its exclusive domestic distribution rights for "Jeopardy!" and "Wheel of Fortune" through the 2027/2028 season. Following this period, Sony Pictures Television will become the exclusive domestic distributor. This transition of distribution responsibilities ensures the continued availability of the shows to their loyal audience.
Furthermore, CBS will expand its role in advertising sales. The company will exclusively lead all advertising sales for both "Jeopardy!" and "Wheel of Fortune" through the 2029/2030 season. This move underscores CBS’s strength in the advertising market and its commitment to maximizing revenue opportunities for the shows.
However, the agreement also includes a gradual shift in other responsibilities. Marketing, promotions, and affiliate relations for both shows will transition to Sony at the end of the 2025/2026 season. In addition, international distribution rights to "Jeopardy!" and "Wheel of Fortune" will move to Sony, effective December 1, 2025. This strategic division of labor reflects a collaborative approach to managing the shows’ global presence and brand.
In a joint statement released by Sony Pictures Television and CBS Media Ventures, both companies emphasized the positive nature of the resolution. The statement highlighted that they "have reached an amicable resolution regarding the syndicated distribution of Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune," and further conveyed a shared commitment to "working together to continue bringing these beloved shows to audiences and stations around the world." This cooperative tone underscores the long-term importance of "Jeopardy!" and "Wheel of Fortune" to both companies, as well as the enduring appeal of these shows to audiences worldwide.
