'Scandal' To Air On BET In Early Syndication Deal

A New Home For 'Scandal'

Now that the off-network rights to the hit ABC drama have been acquired by BET, the cable network will begin airing Seasons 1 and 2 of "Scandal" this summer. Under the terms of the pact, BET will also be able to air episodes from Season 3 eight days after their original ABC broadcast when the show returns in the fall. The deal reportedly also extends to episodes of future seasons.

THR reports that BET will kick off the syndication deal with marathons of Seasons 1 and 2 this August. Season 1 of the show is currently streaming on Netflix, while Season 2 is available on Hulu and ABC.com.

"We're thrilled to be joining forces with ABC in airing this dynamic series," BET chairman Debra Lee said in a statement to THR. "Scandal is a cultural phenomenon that has resonated with viewers for the past two seasons and we're excited to be part of its continued journey."

The Kerry Washington show is the first syndicated drama acquisition for BET, although the cable network has aired syndicated comedy repeats in the past. While series previously had to reach 100 episodes (or four seasons) before being sold into syndication, many networks are exploring off-network opportunities earlier with hit shows in order to see a faster return on their investments.

In 2010, USA and Oxygen both made expensive deals with 20th Century Fox TV for the off-network rights to "Modern Family" and "Glee" respectively, shortly after the shows concluded their popular freshman seasons. With "Scandal" coming hot off its blockbuster sophomore year, the deal should prove lucrative for both ABC Studios and BET.

For more on "Scandal's" syndication deal, click over to THR.

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