Equity Union In Landmark Podcast Deal

Actors who performed in an audio podcast of 70s cult sci fi show Blake's 7 will receive royalties following a landmark deal between union Equity and indie B7 Productions.

The agreement, said to be the first of its kind in the UK, provides for a royalty share on net revenues generated via podcast downloads, audio streaming online and subsequent CD release. The deal also provides for minimum session fees, rehearsals, overtime payments, holiday pay and assignment of rights.

The terms of the podcast agreement can be used as a minimum template for future agreements on any podcast productions. It will be sent to the Personal Managers' Association, the Association of Voice-over Agents and the Co-operative Personal Managers Association.

"Equity is responding to the new media environment," said Equity assistant general secretary Andy Prodger. "This is a significant agreement that will enable independent producers to capitalise on the burgeoning opportunities whilst providing a greater transparency in commercial dealings with performers to the mutual benefit of both parties.

The recording of the Blake's 7 podcast serial finished in December 2006 and is expected to be available online in April with a release on CD in June. - Rob Shepherd, Broadcast.