Hundreds of movies and thousands of TV shows will appear legally on YouTube thanks to a deal involving the video site, Sony Pictures, and 11 other media companies.

The other media companies include the Anime Network, Shout Factory, Telenext Media, the Documentary Channel, and First Look Studios. New content from these sources will dwarf YouTube's previously modest array of movie and TV offerings. The site will soon boast 700 movies and TV episodes by the thousands. YouTube has also recently licensed content from Disney, ESPN, MGM, and Lionsgate. And it's seeking more in "active negotiations," according to a spokesperson.

Older films such as St. Elmo's Fire and The Blue Lagoon will be available on Sony's Crackle but linked to YouTube. TV shows will include Charlie's Angels and Married with Children.

See Reuters.