Canada’s The Movie Network Renews Showtime Deal

TORONTO: Astral’s The Movie Network has renewed and expanded its deal with CBS Studios International for the rights to programming from Showtime, giving the premium network access to upcoming seasons of Californication, Dexter and United States of Tara, plus new shows like Episodes.

The content will be available to subscribers of The Movie Network on-air, on-demand and online. "Showtime’s original programming is among the most cutting-edge and acclaimed content out there and is exactly the sort of premium experience that makes The Movie Network such a unique entertainment and value proposition," said Kevin Wright, senior VP of programming at Astral Television Networks. "This multi-year deal expands upon our ability to provide this award-winning programming across multiple platforms, including The Movie Network OnDemand service and TMN OnLine which is offered through distributors such as BellTV, Rogers and Videotron."

Bruce Swanson, senior VP and general sales manager at CBS Studios International, added, "This new agreement will enable The Movie Network to build on their current stable of Showtime shows while also delivering on its multiplatform strategy to offer programming to their subscribers across multiple screens."