OWN takes TV rights to Lee Daniels' The Butler

Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN) has secured the network television rights to Lee Daniels’ The Butler.

OWN has licensed the first broadcast window behind pay television, beginning in 2017. The film spent three weeks at number one at the US box office and has recently surpassed $100m.

Erik Logan, president of OWN, commented: “On the heels of the film’s fantastic debut, we couldn’t be more excited to showcase this incredible movie for our viewers.”

“This is a film that every American should see and we look forward to its debut on OWN,” added Sheri Salata, president, OWN.

TWC co-chairman Harvey Weinstein said: “It’s been an honour to work alongside Oprah Winfrey, whose performance and support on the picture have been second to none, and we’re thrilled that her network has come on board.”