By Johnny Daniels
Contributing Writer, [GAS]

It’s being claimed that the Monty Python YouTube channel, which shows various clips from the Monty Python sketches, has resulted in a staggering 23,000% jump in Python DVD sales. Is there a bit of serious number massaging going on here or is it total vindication on the part of those who wanted to put the material online for free?

If the 23,000% bit is really true, then those DVD’s must really be flying off the store shelves like rockets, and it just goes to show (MPAA and RIAA) that if you treat people with a bit of respect and give them something for free, they will respond in kind and buy something from you. That strategy seems to have worked fantastically well for the Pythons and now they are doing funny walks all the way to the bank.

It will be interesting to see if any American TV shows will follow the example and start YouTube channels in order to generate DVD revenue. The idea obviously works. I for one wouldn’t mind seeing a South Park or Family Guy YouTube channel set up with high quality clips. It doesn’t even have to be comedy. Any show with memorable scenes can set up on YouTube, put these scenes online as high quality clips, and invite people to buy the DVD’s. What do you think?

[Via Mashable]