FIC Scores South African Launches

LONDON: Five channels from Fox International Channels (FIC) are to launch in South Africa on the platform On Digital Media (ODM) on May 1.

Fox Entertainment, FX, Fox Retro, Baby TV and Fuel will all be carried on the DTH satellite platform. Series confirmed for FX and Fox Retro’s launch slates include Bones, Stargate SG-1 seasons one through four, Starsky & Hutch, MASH, Most Haunted and Fear Factor USA.

Jason Thorp, the managing director of Fox International Channels for U.K. and Africa, said, “We’re delighted to be part of the ODM lineup at launch—our channels will bring critically acclaimed dramas, comedies, sci-fi, lifestyle and baby programming to South African audiences. We’re confident the channels will enjoy the same success experienced in other territories around the world.”

Says Vino Govender, the CEO of ODM, added, “We are very excited about our partnership with Fox International Channels. We believe we have sourced top-quality entertainment for our subscribers. From drama and comedy, to lifestyle and baby programs we will have something for everybody.”

In other company news, FIC has appointed Thandi Davids as director of broadcast and sales at FIC Africa. Reporting to Thorp, Davids will be instrumental in the rollout of the Fox and National Geographic Channel brands across South Africa and sub-Saharan Africa.