Rightster Studios Partners with Polymath Media to Produce Online Comedy Football Show “Off The Ball”

LONDON, UK, 27th March 2013: Rightster Studios, the production division of the online video distribution and marketing specialist Rightster, has partnered with Polymath Media to produce the 100-episode comedy football show, “Off The Ball”. The 20-week online series features the host, comedian Ian Stone, discussing topical issues such as the transfer window, the return of David Beckham to European football and controversial refereeing decisions, with popular panellists such as Dara O’ Briain, Jo Brand, Milton Jones, Lee Mack, Dave Lamb, Martin Kelner and Bob Mills.

The format of each episode features Ian Stone introducing a subject for his guests to debate before selecting a winner. The five to ten minute online show makes use of graphics rather than footage from games, and addresses comments posted by viewers.

“Off The Ball” is distributed via a dedicated YouTube channel and Rightster is in discussions with several publishers in its online video network of over 3,500 syndication partners interested in the online series. Negotiations are also under way to secure TV distribution with a sports broadcaster for a longer version, and with sponsors to support the online series. Last season, Polymath produced a series of 60-minute episodes of “Off The Ball” for ESPN.

Rightster is already the exclusive digital distribution partner for major rights owners and media firms such as the UK’s largest news provider – ITN, sports news specialist – SNTV, renowned UK newspaper – The Guardian, major premium global sports rights owner – MP & Silva and international sports media giant – IMG.

The power of YouTube to reach a wide audience can not be underestimated as demonstrated by the recent news that YouTube has reached a billion monthly viewers. This comes as Rightster’s multi-channel network (MCN) partnership with YouTube reached a significant milestone this month with its 400th channel launch.

Ben Freeman, head of Rightster Studios, commented: “Rightster’s relationships with both premium and user-generated content providers demonstrates the continued popularity of video content in general and confirms Rightster’s status as one of YouTube’s fastest growing partner networks. At Rightster we have a great mix of appropriate production skills along with our commercial and distribution expertise and know just what it takes to bring a show to life online.”

“Off The Ball” is the second original project developed by Rightster Studios after it launched three original series featuring the stars of viral sensation clip “Charlie Bit My Finger”.