Channel 4 today announced it has acquired the UK premiere broadcast rights to U.S. drama series The Event from NBC Universal International Television Distribution. The Event will receive a UK premiere on Channel 4 in October 2010, just weeks after the US debut on NBC.

The Event is an emotional high-octane conspiracy thriller that follows Sean Walker (Jason Ritter), an everyman who investigates the mysterious disappearance of his fiancée, Leila (Sarah Roemer), and unwittingly begins to expose the biggest cover-up in U.S. history. Sean's quest will send ripples through the lives of an eclectic band of strangers, including: newly elected U.S. President Martinez (Blair Underwood); Sophia (Laura Innes), who is the leader of a mysterious group of detainees; and Sean's shadowy father-in-law (Scott Patterson). Their futures are on a collision course in a global conspiracy that could ultimately change the fate of mankind. 

Head of Channel 4, Julian Bellamy says; "The Event was the stand out show at this year's pilot screenings and so I am delighted to bring it to Channel 4 for its UK premiere. Ambitious, clever, fast-paced and gripping - the series is the perfect addition to Channel 4's slate of quality US series. UK viewers should prepare themselves for an autumn of thrilling drama."

Belinda Menendez, president, NBC Universal International Television Distribution says; "We are excited to be in business with Channel 4 to premiere this highly anticipated series in the UK. They have a tremendous track record promoting U.S. programming and share our passion for The Event."

The Event is a production of Universal Media Studios and Steve Stark Productions. Stark serves as executive producer, Evan Katz serves as executive producer/ showrunner, Nick Wauters is creator/ co-executive producer and Jeffrey Reiner is the director/ executive producer.