The Hollywood Reporter and Billboard partner with the Associated Press

Lou Ferrara

February 17, 2012 -- Two of the biggest entertainment trade media brands are partnering with the Associated Press to launch a new entertainment feed. The Hollywood Reporter and Billboard (both part of Prometheus Global Media) will be sharing their breaking news and feature stories on the AP for online use under the content-distribution arrangement with the Associated Press.

Both of these brands are known for being the authorities in the fields of entertainment news, gossip, features and reviews. “We’re thrilled to be able to provide The Hollywood Reporter and Billboard material among our content offerings to customers,” said Lou Ferrara, AP’s managing editor for entertainment in a press release. “It makes for a one-of-a-kind, comprehensive package of entertainment stories every day.”

The Hollywood Reporter and Billboard will be able to reach a wider audience and expand their brands by being part of the AP’s massive distribution network.

The editorial directors of both of the media empires are excited about this new venture which kicks off this month.

"Billboard is already synonymous with 'music' all around the globe, but the reach of the brand’s content will now be increased exponentially thanks to the AP," Billboard editorial director Bill Werde told the Associated Press. “AP is truly the top news agency in the world when it comes to distributing entertainment stories, and we're pleased and excited to contribute to that effort.”