World Screen

NEW YORK: The new premium movie service backed by Viacom, MGM and Lionsgate, epix, is eyeing a fourth-quarter launch as a cable channel, with a broadband premiere in May. The new service will be operated by Studio 3 Networks, the …

TORONTO: The Canadian Television Fund (CTF) will continue to receive C$100 million annually for the next two years from the federal government. "The Government’s commitment to Canadian television ensures the continued viability of this growth industry,” said Valerie Creighton, the …

SINGAPORE: All Sports Networks (ASN) will be launching on StarHub on January 30, followed by ASN HD on February 10.  StarHub will offer its costumers a two-week free preview of the 24-hour channel, which broadcasts more than 20 games live …

LONDON: The BBC’s director-general, Mark Thompson, is promising more arts and music content from the public broadcaster, with a view to supporting "the cultural life of Britain," he said. "Today we are not only reaffirming our commitment to arts, but …

WEST PALM BEACH: ION Television will launch in high definition across 20 U.S. markets on February 16, reaching more than 46 million households. ION Television HD begins its initial rollout in 20 markets, including New York, Los Angeles and Chicago, with …

LONDON: With revenues up by 6 percent for the second half of 2008 to £2.6 billion and a profit of £166 million, BSkyB has announced plans to create 1,000 new jobs, with a particular focus on driving sign-ups to its HD …

LONDON: FremantleMedia Enterprises (FME) has sold more than 150 hours of programming, including the international hit American Idol, to pan-Arabic broadcaster Middle East Broadcasting Center (MBC).  In addition to the eighth season of American Idol, MBC picked up the doc …

LOS ANGELES/LAS VEGAS: MarVista Entertainment is presenting the new tween reality competition series In the Real World at NATPE.  Produced by Montreal-based Apartment 11 Productions, In the Real World features 18 contestants ages 12 to 14 as they race across …

SILVER SPRING: Sean Atkins is set to join Discovery Studios as VP of West Coast production and development on February 17.  He will oversee West Coast operations for Discovery Studios from its Los Angeles office, reporting to Carole Tomko, the president …

TORONTO: Portfolio Entertainment has signed broadcast deals for 200 hours of lifestyle programs, including a trio of culinary series hosted by Chef Michael Smith.  Ananey Communications in Israel acquired seasons three and four of Chef At Home, following Smith in his home kitchen; three seasons of …