Sony Titles Head to Hallmark Channel

LOS ANGELES: Hallmark Channel has added to its western and mystery lineups with a slate of acquisitions from Sony Pictures Television.

The deal sees the mini-series Comanche Moon and two additional Stone Cold movies starring Tom Selleck head to Hallmark Channel. The acquisition also brings a roster of 18 musicals to Hallmark Movie Channel. These family-friendly theatrical films include Bye, Bye Birdie, Funny Lady, Oliver!, Pal Joey and Pennies From Heaven. The musicals will become part of a franchised block on Hallmark Movie Channel.

"Based on the performance of the first Stone Cold franchise, we’re thrilled to be adding all of the movies in this mystery/thriller series, and Comanche Moon is a natural addition to our popular western library," said Michelle Vicary, the senior VP of acquisitions and scheduling for Hallmark Channel. "Musicals also make sense for us, especially as we grow our audience for Hallmark Movie Channel with distinctive content that is timeless in its appeal. Most importantly, each movie in this hugely important deal perfectly fits our family-friendly brand enabling us to attract new advertisers and spur even greater distribution for both Hallmark Channel and Hallmark Movie Channel."