• by David Goetzl  @dgoetzl, March 7, 2007

NBC Universal has signed a three-year deal with the production company formed by former top programmers at Fox and ABC, giving it the right of first refusal on content developed. The company, BermanBraun, is headed by Gail Berman, who led Fox to its first No. 1 finish in the 18-to-49 demo as its president, and Lloyd Braun, who is credited with helping launch some of ABC's current hits, such as "Desperate Housewives."

In a sign of the changing production dynamics, the deal covers content created for TV and emerging platforms as well.

"Not only do Lloyd and Gail have phenomenal track records developing shows like "Lost," "American Idol," "Grey's Anatomy," "House" and "Desperate Housewives," but they are both experienced broadcast network programmers who understand what it takes to develop great content," said Marc Graboff, president of NBC Universal's West Coast TV operations.

BermanBraun content--be it scripted or reality--could appear on NBC, as well as its cable outlets, such as USA and Bravo.

Berman recently left her post as president of Paramount Pictures, while Braun launched the Yahoo Media Group in 2004 and headed it until late last year. He previously was chairman of ABC Entertainment Television Group.