Interesting news in today's FT of a deal between internet TV firm Veoh and Hollywood talent agency United Talent Agency to set up an online TV channel to discover new talent. Apparently the deal was brokered by former Disney exec Michael Eisner, one of the major stakeholders in Veoh.
Veoh's CEO Danny Shapiro has described the new channel as "the new gateway for talent discovery in Hollywood", although Veoh will also be selling advertising around the channel.
In theory, UGC sites like Veoh are good proving grounds for new talent, although it remains to be seen if the videos that are popular among users translate well to movies. The proof will come if, in 12-18 months time, UTA has signed up anyone via Veoh, and put them on the big screen.
(via FT.com)