RTL Pacts with Reliance for Asian Expansion

MUMBAI: The RTL Group is partnering with Reliance Broadcast Network to launch a portfolio of English-language networks in India that will have access to FremantleMedia’s deep library of content.

Reliance released details of the proposed 50-50 joint venture in a filing to Indian regulators yesterday. The partnership would begin with two English-language entertainment channels, focused on reality and action, with the possibly of looking at the lucrative Hindi-language entertainment. The portfolio will draw from FremantleMedia’s slate of content.

The RTL partnership is similar to Reliance’s deal with CBS Studios International for three channels: Prime, a general-entertainment channel; Spark, for the 15-to-24 set; and Love, geared at women.