HBO Launches On Virgin Media VOD Service

Virgin Media has today announced a content programming deal with HBO, including smash-hit series like The Sopranos, Six Feet Under and Entourage.

The deal marks HBO’s first entry into the UK market place. At least 50 hours of premium programming will be available upon full roll-out, through Virgin Media’s TV-on-demand service.

The HBO subscription service will be available as part of the standard monthly charge for Virgin Media customers taking the top ‘XL’ TV package.

Virgin Media has already signed deals with Channel 4, The Walt Disney Company’s Buena Vista International Television and Alliance Atlantis.

Ernie Cormier, chief commercial officer of Virgin Media, said: “We are making a serious investment in the range of on-demand programmes we offer and HBO has a reputation for producing some of the most original and entertaining shows of recent years.

“By shortly adding more than 600 hours of fantastic viewing to our library, we’re putting our customers firmly in control of what they want to watch, when they want to watch it.”

Simon Sutton, president for programming distribution and international at HBO, added: “HBO’s programming has always done very well in the UK and the arrival of an HBO service has been long desired and anticipated.

“We are very excited to offer HBO programming in a subscription video on demand format, where we can deliver our acclaimed series and specials to UK audiences on their schedule. This opportunity enables us to raise our profile in the region, while providing viewers with a distinct HBO environment.”

Virgin Media launched last week with much fanfare (see Virgin Media Launches Today), and already it has become engaged in a battle for customers with Sky (see Branson Vs Murdoch: Round Three).

Virgin Media: www.virginmedia.com