Netflix to stream 'Star Trek' to global subscribers

NEW YORK: Netflix Inc. will stream all episodes of CBS Corp.'s new "Star Trek" series to subscribers outside the U.S. as it furthers its global ambitions by acquiring the international rights to a blockbuster franchise.

Each episode will be available to Netflix subscribers in 188 countries within 24 hours of airing on CBS. In addition, all 727 existing episodes of the "Star Trek" library will be offered on Netflix around the world by the end of 2016, the companies said in a statement Monday.

In November, CBS announced it was bringing back "Star Trek" with a web series that would run exclusively on its $6a-month All Access subscription service after a special broadcast preview in January 2017. In the U.S., the show will remain exclusive to All Access subscribers. In Canada, Bell Media will have the rights to air the show on TV and online.

The deal is another sign that TV networks like CBS have found a revenue stream by selling shows internationally and to streaming video services like Netflix, despite concerns that bolstering online platforms is threatening the U.S. pay-TV business. The pact may also help Netflix further its growth overseas. The world's largest streaming service launched in 130 countries in January but still needs new programming to get a foothold in many new markets. In April, Netflix stunned investors by forecasting second-quarter international subscriber growth that was far below analysts' estimates. Netflix reports second quarter earnings on Monday.