Smithsonian Networks Finalizes Carriage Deal with DIRECTV

WASHINGTON, September 24:
Smithsonian Networks has concluded its first carriage agreement with DIRECTV
and will begin broadcasting its original programming on a new linear high-definition
channel, Smithsonian Channel, tentatively slated to launch September 26.

Under the carriage deal
with DIRECTV, the Smithsonian Channel will now be available as part of
DIRECTV’s HD Xtra Pack to more than 16.3 million customers across the U.S.

Much of the network’s
programming will celebrate the American experience with branded original
content from assets of the Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum
and research complex. The network will feature original documentaries, short-subject
explorations and programs highlighting America’s cultural, historical and
scientific heritage.

Among these highlights is
the network’s first original series, Stories from the Vaults, hosted by Tom Cavanagh (Ed). The 30-minute episodes follow Cavanagh as he
goes behind the scenes with the museum’s top curators and experts to reveal the
back stories on some of the amazing artifacts that visitors don’t always get to
see.

"It's a very exciting
time for the network," said Tom Hayden, the general manager for
Smithsonian Networks. "Everybody at DIRECTV has been very responsive and
shares our enthusiasm for Smithsonian Channel and we're thrilled to be working
with them as our launch partner. We look forward to welcoming additional
affiliates across all distribution platforms in the coming months."