Cartoon Network To Move Into Broadband TV Market
Cartoon Network will make its first foray into bespoke broadband content with the imminent launch of its new paid-for broadband television service.
SuperCartoonNetwork.co.uk will be launched by the end of the year, with the network’s parent company Turner Broadcasting Systems partnering with digital rights company Premium TV.
The move sees Cartoon Network following the likes of the BBC and Channel 4 into the growing sector (see C4 Wins Battle To Screen Shows Online). The site will be subscriber-based and will include current Cartoon Network shows and archived material from the channel.
Under the terms of the two-year deal, Premium TV will provide the broadband platform for Turner, on which Super Cartoon Network will broadcast within the Europe, Middle East and Africa region. Viewers will be able to pay for content via monthly or annual subscriptions or on a pay-per-view basis.
Casey Harwood, senior vice-president of digital media at TBS, said: “The broadband market is maturing to the stage where there is a real commercial opportunity in offering consumers a true broadband experience. Based on their expertise and talent, Premium TV will play a key role in helping us realise this.”
Oliver Slipper, chief executive of Premium TV, added: “This deal firmly establishes Premium TV in the entertainment sector. We have an excellent reputation in the sports world and it’s a natural progression for us to move into this sector. Our broadcasting expertise will perfectly complement Turner Broadcasting Systems’ digital portfolio.”