Salman Khan draws huge audiences not just on the big screen, but also on television. His film Bajrangi Bhaijaan (2015) was a prime example. That was why Star India had signed a multi-million-dollar deal with the superstar for the satellite and digital rights of his films.
The actor, however, has now signed a deal with Amazon Prime Video that gives it the digital and premiere rights for his films. After their theatrical release, the actor’s films will be first shown on the online streaming service, two months before satellite television broadcast or any other form of distribution. Apart from his forthcoming films, existing titles like Tubelight, Bajrangi Bhaijaan, Kick, Jai Ho and Hero will also be available on Amazon Prime as part of the deal.
“Amazon Prime Video reaches over 200 countries and territories and I am happy to collaborate with Amazon Prime Video and expand the reach of Indian cinema. Fans of Indian cinema will discover my movies on a new platform and the platform will also help new fans discover our cinema,” Khan said in a statement.
With Khan tying up with Amazon Prime, the question of what happens to his deal with Star India arises. Industry insiders say Star opted to stay out of the digital bidding war, but the deal with Amazon Prime is likely to see the network rework its existing agreement with Khan.
Shah Rukh Khan and Aamir Khan had earlier signed exclusive content deals with Amazon's rival Netflix.