YouTube star Michael Buckley signed by HBO

Michael Buckley, the host of popular YouTube show “What the Buck?” has signed a deal with HBO.

For those not familiar with the show, Buck delivers a regular dose of celebrity gossip and opinion in a highly energized fashion. The show is an acquired taste, but that hasn’t stopped 250-500,000 people watching every episode.

According to NewTeeVee, Buckley’s deal with HBO doesn’t include the show, but will instead see Buckley developing original content for the network, both online and for television.

The track record of internet stars crossing over to the mainstream has a checkered success rate, but the signing alone still demonstrates that the internet can still be used as a gateway to mainstream opportunities.