All eight episodes of Lilyhammer will be streamable via internet to connect TVs, tablets, game consoles, computers and mobile phones. Netflix Chief Content Officer Ted Sarandos commented: "Lilyhammer is a well-observed, funny and occasionally brutal story of culture clash, focused on Steven's inimitable portrayal of an East Coast mobster. We're proud to introduce this terrific ‘Original Series' exclusively to our members. If you love the first episode, there is no need to wait until next week, or to set a DVR, to catch the next one."
The US actor and Bruce Springsteen guitarist van Zandt, who also acted as co-writer and executive producer on the series said: "I am very careful with my choices and this project was so exciting to me because of the wonderful writing, the rich characters and the fascinating culture of Norway".
The 8x25' series Lilyhammer was produced by Rubicon TV in Norway for NRK, with support from Nordisk Film & TV Fond. Netflix picked up rights for the Norwegian series at the last MIPCOM from sales outfit SevenOne International. Other original series that will be available to Netflix's ‘Watch Instantly' viewers include the political thriller House of Cards starring Kevin Spacey.
Netflix has more than 20 million streaming members in the US, Canada and Latin America. The US SVOD service made its debut in the UK on Monday, with its streaming package for unlimited use of content for £5.99 per month, putting pressure on the current SVOD market leader LoveFilm.
As for Lilyhammer's own premiere in Norway, it has been delayed following a dispute between NRK and Rubicon TV. It was originally scheduled to air on Norway's public broadcaster on New Year's Day, but after discovering that Rubicon TV had signed a string of forbidden product placement deals, NRK has asked for the producers to re-edit the entire series before it goes live in Norway.