Nine Network has restructured its long-running output deal with Warner Bros Studios, which produces such titles as The Big Bang Theory, The Mentalist, Fringe, The Following, Gotham, Forever, Stalker, Person of Interest, Arrow and 2 Broke Girls.
The saving is designed to improve its position for the next round NRL broadcasting rights.
The Australian reports Nine has retained the right to broadcast new episodes such as The Big Bang Theory but has has waived the right to repeats unless it buys them on the open market.
Ironically, Nine’s schedule has been heavily dependent on seemingly-limitless repeats of the US sitcom.
Output deals have traditionally been legacy arrangements between Australian networks and US studios but their strike rate has been less successful in broadcast television, while viewers have shown increased interest in Australian drama and premium cable dramas.