NBC Universal Global Networks Launches International Brands in Russia
Posted on May 28, 2008
Filed Under Digital Entertainment / Blogtainment, Digital Video
Universal Channel and SCI FI Debut in Key Strategic Market as Part of NBCU Global Network’s Ongoing Channel Expansion Plan
MOSCOW–(BUSINESS WIRE)–NBC Universal Global Networks will launch its most successful channel brands for the first time in Russia with Universal Channel launching on 29th May and SCI FI on 30th May.
Both channels will debut on the NTV Plus digital platform, bringing viewers the very best in science fiction and entertainment programming including award-winning series and blockbuster movies from distributors like NBC Universal, CBS Paramount and BBC.
A double bill of the master of science-fiction, Stephen Spielberg’s blockbusters Jurassic Park and E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial are part of the launch programming treats lined up on SCI FI. Also featured is the Russian premiere of Torchwood, classic franchise Doctor Who, SCI FI US’ hit series Battlestar Galactica, and all time favourite Quantum Leap. The channel will offer the best of Universal’s science fiction movies, spanning the entire range from space, aliens & creatures to heroic fantasy, fairy tales and the paranormal.
Universal Channel launches with a host of star-studded Hollywood blockbusters such as Out of Sight (starring George Clooney and Jennifer Lopez) and Sudden Death (starring Jean-Claude Van Damme). The channel will premiere the extremely popular series Psych and Dalziel & Pascoe. The line up includes a full range of Universal hit blockbusters and classics from Alfred Hitchcock to Clint Eastwood.
This launch represents a significant milestone in NBCU’s strategic commitment to expand international operations into priority markets, as unveiled in April 2007 by Jeff Zucker, President and CEO, NBC Universal, and Peter Smith, President, NBC Universal International.
Commenting on this notable launch, Roma Khanna, President of Global Networks & Digital Initiatives, said “We’re thrilled to be establishing SCI FI and Universal Channel in a market as significant as Russia. This is a landmark step forward in delivering on the international growth strategy of NBC Universal Global Networks.”
The fully localized channels will be managed by Colin McLeod, Managing Director (Central & Eastern Europe), NBC Universal Global Networks, who said “We are pleased to announce the channels’ entry into the Russian market, the growth of which is at an all time high. Viewers in Russia are keen followers of the sci-fi genre and at the same time there are many fans of Hollywood blockbusters. We look forward to working with our carriage partners to introduce these exciting channels to a new audience.”
Originally launched in the US in 1992, SCI FI is already rated the fourth highest cable entertainment network among viewers aged 25-54 in the U.S. in 2007 and airs in over 30 countries around the world. Recent SCI FI channel launches include most recently Japan (March 2008), as well as Romania (April 2008), Poland (December 2007), Brazil (August 2007), Benelux (May 2007) and Latin America (April 2007).
NBCU Global Networks also announced their new Moscow based management team to drive the expansion plan in Russia. The Moscow operations will be headed by Salikhat Magadova who has been appointed as Channel Director, NBCU Global Networks Russia reporting into Colin McLeod, Managing Director, NBCU Global Networks CEE. Salikhat will be supported by the newly appointed Marketing Manager, Russia, Alla Prokhorova. Under Colin’s leadership Salikhat and Alla will work closely with the London based CEE team in driving the business in Russia.
Global Networks, under the leadership of Roma Khanna, President of Global Networks & Digital Initiatives, plans to significantly boost the revenues of its international cable channels over the next two to three years, including the SCI FI, 13th Street, Studio Universal, Universal Channel, Hallmark, Movies 24, Diva TV and KidsCo channel brands.
About NBC Universal Global Networks
NBC Universal Global Networks is part of NBC Universal, one of the world’s leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production and marketing of entertainment, news and information to a global audience. It owns and operates the distinct entertainment channels SCI FI, 13th STREET, Studio Universal, Universal Channel, Das Vierte, the international (non-U.S.) Hallmark Channels, Movies 24, Diva TV and an interest in the KidsCo joint venture. Collectively, these channels reach more than 130 million households across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Australia, Latin America and Asia. NBC Universal is 80% owned by General Electric and 20% owned by Vivendi.
Notes to editors:
About SCI FI and Universal Channel
The SCI FI channel, a place “where imagination lives”, is dedicated to science fiction, fantasy and the paranormal. The varied programming line-up ranges from epic fantasies and superhero adventures to thought-provoking futuristic dramas. Universal Channel offers viewers “a world of great entertainment” from one of Hollywood’s biggest studios. It is the destination for smart, engaging, character-driven entertainment with a programming mix of Hollywood blockbusters and award-winning series from around the world.
Contacts
Mmd Corporate for NBC Universal
Public Affairs & Public Relations Consultants
Inna Semenyuk
Tel : +7 (495) 788 67 84
inna.semenyuk@mmd.ru
or
Irina Proskurnya
Irina.proskurnya@mmd.ru
NBC Universal Global Networks, London
Share ThisComments
Leave a Reply