BBC First Block Set for AXN Mystery in Japan

LONDON: BBC Worldwide and Sony Pictures Television Networks in Japan are launching a BBC First programming block on AXN Mystery, featuring premium crime, mystery and thriller content from the U.K.

The move marks the global debut of the BBC First-branded program block. AXN Mystery will debut the BBC First block in Japan on May 7 at 10 p.m. It will run for two hours every Thursday. Included among the programming are Sherlock, Doctor Who and The Game. Viewers will also be able to catch up on some of their favorite programs from the block via AXN Mystery Plus, a free on-demand service for AXN Mystery subscribers on their TVs, PCs, tablets and smartphones.

“AXN Mystery has had great success with British dramas, which have attracted a strong Japanese following with their high production value and unique style of storytelling, so it made perfect sense to create a destination for them on our schedule,” said Hiroko Ozawa, the general manager of AXN Mystery at Sony Pictures Television Networks, Japan. “We are confident that the carefully curated program lineup for BBC First will bring even more audiences to the channel."

“The BBC has a world-class reputation for drama. With this at its core, the BBC First program block will offer Japan’s audiences an unrivaled opportunity to view a wealth of original and unforgettable British content,” said Soojin Chung, VP and general manager of BBC Worldwide for Northeast Asia. “Over the months ahead, we will be offering viewers more opportunities to catch the best and latest crime, suspense and mystery dramas from the U.K.”