Channel Profile: The Hub

PREMIUM: The Hub, a joint venture of Discovery Communications and Hasbro, is set to launch October 1.

ON THE RECORD: MARGARET LOESCH, PRESIDENT & CEO
How do you schedule the channel from morning through late night, Monday through Sunday?
The Hub is taking the place of the Discovery Kids channel. The network’s specific programming blocks are: Preschool (ages 2-5; 9 a.m.-1 p.m.); Kids Afternoon/Kids Prime (ages 6-12; 1-6 p.m.); Family Prime Access (6-7 p.m.); and Family Prime (7-11 p.m.)

Are you acquiring content from the international market?
Absolutely. Launch series will include The 99, produced by Teshkeel Media and Endemol Digital UK Production Group; Animal Mechanicals from Canada’s Halifax Film; anime series Deltora Quest from Dentsu Inc. of Japan; and The WotWots produced by Pukeko Pictures of New Zealand. French company Moonscoop and Telegael of Ireland are also partnered in productions to be shown on the channel.

Are you buying second-run content from within the U.S.?
Yes. An example is Fraggle Rock from The Jim Henson Company.

What is your approach to commissioning new productions from U.S. producers?
The new network will feature original content by Hasbro Studios, such as Family Game Night, G.I. Joe Renegades and Pound Puppies as well as Transformers Prime and My Little Pony. Original productions include Dan Vs. from Film Roman (a Starz Media Company) in association with The Hatchery. The Hatchery is also delivering R.L. Stine’s The Haunting Hour and there are several programs from American Greetings Properties.

Do you have any blocks or slots you are looking to fill?
We are focused on bringing together a diverse slate and a wide array of amazing creative talent to make The Hub a popular destination for children and their families. At The Hub, viewers will find consistently entertaining, empowering and enriching programs, including programs designed to educate young viewers and their parents.