Universal Channel, SYFY and E! Channels to launch on BT Vision
BT Vision has signed a contract with Universal Networks International, the international channels division of NBCUniversal. This will see leading channel brands, Universal Channel, Syfy and E! Entertainment added to its linear line-up, which will launch in the coming weeks.
The three channels will be streamed live and, early in 2013, BT Vision customers will also be able to watch specific programmes on-demand.
Universal Channel’s drama offering includes UK premieres of iconic US crime franchises Law&Order: Special Victims Unit and Criminal Intent, as well as Rookie Blue and Flashpoint.
Syfy’s blend of programming comprises drama, movies, reality and factual entertainment from the fantasy, supernatural and science fiction genres. The channel’s exclusive content includes popular dramas Haven and Warehouse 13, futuristic thriller Continuum, and paranormal investigation series, Fact or Faked.
Recently refreshed with a new on-air look and “Pop of Culture” tagline, E! is the destination channel for fans of celebrity, entertainment news and popular culture. The channel’s original programming includes the reality show, Keeping Up With The Kardashians; the Joan Rivers’ hosted weekly celebrity fashion report and Live from the Red Carpet, offering viewers access to the awards season’s red carpet action.
The three new channels join BT Vision’s rapidly-growing linear offering, which now includes Discovery Channel, Animal Planet, Real Time, British Eurosport 1 and 2, FX, National Geographic, National Geographic WILD and UKTV’s Gold, Watch and Alibi. BT will be announcing more new channels shortly.
Marc Watson, BT’s chief executive of TV, said: “As we expand the number of channels available soon for BT Vision customers, we hope that there will be something there for everyone. We will cater for drama lovers, comedy addicts and sports fans in equal measure. We are not finished yet and we will be announcing some more much-loved channels to complete our roster.”