Sony Pictures Television , which produces syndicated TV game shows "Wheel of Fortune" and "Jeopardy!", told distributor CBS Studios on Monday that it is taking back global distribution of the programs because of alleged contract violations by CBS.

Culver City-based Sony said it would send new episodes directly to television stations, escalating the contract dispute with CBS. Paramount-owned CBS said it would go to court to try to block Sony's action.

The fight between Sony and CBS over 'Wheel of Fortune' and 'Jeopardy' intenisifies as Sony aims to take over distribution of the shows by next week.