The week in over-the-top provides a recap of recent news related to streaming initiatives in the U.S. from various networks and platforms.
* Amazon.com Inc. picked up sci-fi series "The Expanse" after it got canceled by Syfy (US), TheVerge.com reported May 26. The show will return for its fourth season on Amazon, according to the report.
* Netflix Inc. will stream original family drama "Northern Rescue" soon. The series, featuring 10 episodes, is a CBC and Netflix production, produced by Don Carmody Television, according to a May 24 news release.
* Verizon Communications Inc. nixed plans to launch its own over-the-top service, CEO Lowell McAdam said in a recent interview cited by Multichannel News. The company will instead work with a partner "in the linear game" and add digital content from Oath, McAdam said, adding that a fourth-quarter launch is expected. He also clarified that the company will focus on Yahoo properties and some "limited entertainment."
* Twitter Inc.'s apps are no longer available on Roku Inc., Google Inc.'s Android TV and Microsoft Corp.'s Xbox devices, the company said. The move is part of the company's efforts to comply with the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation, which went into effect May 25, Variety reported May 22.
In other platform news
* Skydance Media entered into a partnership with Netflix to co-produce and release original feature film "Six Underground." The movie will be directed by Michael Bay and will star Ryan Reynolds, the company said May 22.
* Netflix signed a deal with former U.S. President Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle, to produce films and series with the streaming service. Under a multiyear agreement, the Obamas will produce a diverse mix of content, including the potential for scripted series, unscripted series, docuseries, documentaries and features, the company said May 21.
