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A+E Networks Logo

A+E Television Networks Logo / Source: aframe.com [1]

A+E NETWORKS

235 E 45th St
New York, NY 10017
(212) 210-1400

http://www.aenetworks.com/

 

COMPANY OVERVIEW

“cultivating…the human experience” – A+E

ABOUT

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A majority of A+E Networks portfolio of over ten original cable channel brands / Source: Hearst.com [4]

Founded in 1984 as The Arts & Entertainment Network, A+E Networks is an award-winning, global media company whose programming reaches more than 330 million homes in 160 markets and 39 languages with its diverse 62 channel feeds. [3] When it began broadcasting on February 1, 1984, the network was seen on 1,500 cable systems with nine million subscribers.[5] Celebrating its tenth anniversary in 1994, the company officially changed its name to A+E and redefined its range of programming. It would focus on three themes: original biographies, mysteries, and specials. [5] [6] The company is a joint venture between Hearst Corporation and Disney-ABC Television Group. The content is distributed through its portfolio of channel brands, History, A&E, Lifetime, LMN, H2, Crime + Investigation, FYI, LRW, BIO, Military History, History en Espanõl and is licensed to third party broadcast television clients. [1] [3] By 1999 the A+E Network reached more than 78 million cable subscribers, while The History Channel was viewed by more than 70 million households in over 50 countries, making it the fastest growing cable network since its launch. [5] As of 2014 A+E Networks is valued at $26 billion. [7] A+E Networks main competitors are Discovery Communications, AMC Networks, and Turner Broadcasting System. [19]

KEY LEADERSHIP

Nancy Dubuc - President and Chief Executive Officer, A+E Networks

Nancy Dubuc – President and Chief Executive Officer, A+E Networks / Source: aenetworks.com [2]

Robert DeBitetto - President, Brand Strategy, Business Development and A+E Studios, A+E Networks

Robert DeBitetto – President, Brand Strategy, Business Development and A+E Studios, A+E Networks / Source: aenetworks.com [2]

- Melvin Berning - President, Chief Revenue Officer

Melvin Berning – President, Chief Revenue Officer / Source: aenetworks.com [2]

 

 

 

 

 

 

- David Granville-Smith - Executive Vice President And Chief Financial Officer, A+E Networks

David Granville-Smith – Executive Vice President And Chief Financial Officer, A+E Networks / Source: aenetworks.com [2]

Michael Feeney - Executive Vice President, Corporate Communications

Michael Feeney – Executive Vice President, Corporate Communications / Source: aenetworks.com [2]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FALL 2015 COMPANY NEWS

VICELAND JOINT VENTURE

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Vice Media LLC logo / Source: adweek.com [10]

A+E Networks will turn its H2 channel into Viceland, a 24-hour cable network programmed by multimedia company Vice Media. [8] Launching in early 2016, Viceland will be distributed in approximately 70 million homes, and will feature hundreds of hours of new lifestyle and documentary programming developed by the youth-centric brand. [9] Oscar-winning writer/director and Vice creative director, Spike Jonze, will oversee all aspects of the new channel’s development. Over a year ago, A+E Networks made a $250 million investment in Vice, bringing its stake in the company to 15%. [11] A+E Networks will handle distribution and technical operations and have put complete trust in Vice, handing over all programming rights. A+E has suffered an audience decline over the last year as ratings from reality TV hits, such as Duck Dynasty, have fallen to moderate numbers. [8] A+E is making smart decisions utilizing Vice to win back and incentivize younger audiences with new original programming. Viceland will launch with a full slate of prime-time shows, including Gaycation (with Ellen Page) and Huang’s World (with Eddie Huang). [10] A+E is committed to expanding H2 internationally, distributing it into over 68 territories, as well as its production of informational-based historical content. [9]

NEW PLATFORM: *ASTERISK

A+E's new digital content brand Asterisk's logo / Source: realscreen.com

A+E’s new digital content brand Asterisk’s logo / Source: realscreen.com

A+E launched new digital brand called Asterisk, a website featuring stories examining contemporary culture through a historical lens. The site is aimed at a younger millennial demo, posting articles that include videos, photos, quizzes and BuzzFeed-esque lists etc. [13] According to A+E, the brand features premium content “created for sharing across the social web,” [14] and also offers marketing partners “native advertising” solutions customizable for specific products. The site analyzes 10 cultural categories: life skills, sports, food and drink, people, ideas, arts and entertainment, work, style, travel and tech. [13]

Check out this fun article exemplifying Asterisk’s take on history comparing Southern Democrats LBJ and Frank Underwood, the devious politician from Netflix’s House of Cards, which reveals the real American president as the bigger badass.

JBJ UNDERWOOD

President LBJ and Spacey’s Francis Underwood battle for the title of most “badass” president on A+E’s new digital platform, Asterisk / Source: theasterisktoday.com

LIBERTY GLOBAL DISTRIBUTION DEAL

Liberty_Global

The communications giant, Liberty Global’s, logo / Source: libertyglobal.com [17]

A+E Networks has signed an extended distribution deal with British-based telecommunications and television company, Liberty Global, for exclusive carriage of its channels across Europe. A+E Networks branded content can now be located on Liberty Global networks in the UK, Ireland, the Netherlands, Belgium, Poland, Romania, Hungary, the Czech Republic and Slovakia. [15] Liberty Global is the largest cable company in the world, with 27 million customers across 14 countries. [16] Lifetime and H2 will be available in the UK and Ireland for the first time. Also under the terms of the new deal, all current A+E Networks UK channels have to remain on their existing Liberty Global platforms, which already reach over 15.5 million subscribers regularly. [15] Ultimately, this deal gives A+E Networks channels and content across all platforms greater access to new subscribers and markets. [16]

CRITICS’ CHOICE AWARDS

criticschoicetopbottom

Critics’ Choice Movie Awards and Critics’ Choice Television Awards respective show logos before combing into one award show / Source: Deadline.com

Beginning next year, A+E Networks will combine the Critics’ Choice Movie Awards and the Critics’ Choice Television Awards into one three-hour event. A+E partnered with the Broadcast Film Critics Association and the Broadcast Television Journalists Association in 2014 to obtain exclusive broadcast rights for the 2015 and 2016 awards. [12] The new show, the 21st Annual Critics’ Choice Awards, will be cast live January 17 on A+E Networks’ A&E, Lifetime and LMN simultaneously. Last year, The Critics’ Choice Movie Awards drew 1.92 million total viewers and the Television Awards, after moving from the CW, drew 522,000 total viewers. Bob Bain Productions and Berlin Entertainment will produce the new show. [12]

COMPANY REORGANIZATION

Over the last few fall months, A+E Networks has experienced significant corporate restructuring, promoting valued executives and ushering in a new president.

jana-bennet-headshot

Jana Bennett / Source: tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com

A+E Networks has promoted Jana Bennett to President and General Manager of History. Bennet joined A+E as President of FYI and LMN in 2013 and will oversee all strategic planning, programming, marketing and brand development for History and sister, H2. Under Bennet’s leadership, FYI and LMN became two of the fastest growing networks in television. FYI experienced a double-digit ratings growth in its first year on air thanks to new series Married at First Sight, Arranged and Seven Year Switch. [24]

Arturo Interian / Source: Variety.com

Arturo Interian / Source: Variety.com [22]

History promoted A+E veteran Arturo Interian to Senior Vice President, Scripted Programming. Interian recently served as Vice President, Original Movies for A+E’s sister network Lifetime, spearheading the Emmy Award nominated miniseries Bonnie & Clyde, and Marilyn. In 2002, Interian joined the company after serving as Director, Movies for Television and Miniseries for CBS. He is currently heading the upcoming series Roots and History’s hit drama series Vikings season four. [20]

Stacy Green / Source: Variety.com

Stacy Green / Source: Variety.com [23]

Stacy Green has been promoted to Executive Vice President, Global Human Resources and Facilities for A+E Networks. After joining A+E in 2013 as Senior Vice President, Human Resources, she modernized A+E Networks’ employee benefits plans and policies. [21] As the new Executive Vice President, Green will place a focus on culture and people to be reflected in the workspaces of employees, throughout all A+E Network divisions. [21]

FINANCIALS

A+E Television Networks is a privately traded company.

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

A+E’s NEW PROGRAMMING SLATE

Highlights of A+E Networks new slate of original programming across its portfolio

A&E

brand

A+E channel A&E’s logo / Source: aetv.com [25]

  • A&E Networks has slated a six-episode hour-long mystery crime drama series The Frankenstein Chronicles starring Sean Bean (Game of Thrones) premiering next year. [26]

  • On December 8, A&E’s new six episode hour-long original docu-series Born This Way, following a group of seven young adults born with Down syndrome, premieres. [27]

 

HISTORY

The History Channel logo / Source: history.com

The History Channel logo / Source: history.com [29]

  • History will premiere a eight-part docu-drama series in 2016, Barbarians Rising, about the 700-year empire. The series is a global production spanning more than 185 territories. [30]

  • The channel has also ordered 16 episodes of Join or Die with Craig Ferguson, a half-hour comedy show in which host, Craig Ferguson, debates provocative and timely topics with a panel of guests and history experts. [31]

  • History, A&E and Lifetime greenlight the scripted remake series ROOTS, a historical portrait of American slavery spanning multiple generations, to be simulcast for a new generation of viewers in 2016. [32]

LIFETIME

A+E channel Liftime's logo / Source: mylifetime.com

A+E channel Liftime’s logo / Source: mylifetime.com [33]

  • On January 18 Lifetime will premiere the limited series even War & Peace, reimagined for a new generation, starring Paul Dano and Gillian Anderson. [34]

  • Premiering January 5 at 10pm, Pitch Slapped, a new eight hour-long docu-series analyzing the competitive nature of high school a cappella. [35]

 

 

FYI

A+E channel FYI's logo / Source: fyi.tv [36]

A+E channel FYI’s logo / Source: fyi.tv [36]

  • On December 8, FYI will air its new hour-long ten episode original series #BlackLove, which follows five black women from NYC on a journey to find love. [37]

  • Eight one-hour episodes of Khloe Kardashian’s new non-traditional talk show, Cocktails with Khloe, is set to premiere on December 9. [38]

 

 

SOURCES:

 

[1] “A+E Networks Gets Content to Market Around the World Faster with Aframe.” Aframe RSS. N.p., n.d. Web. 29 Nov. 2015.

[2] “Executive Bios | A+E Networks.” Executive Bios | A+E Networks. N.p., n.d. Web. 29 Nov. 2015.

[3] “About | A+E Networks.” About | A+E Networks. N.p., n.d. Web. 28 Nov. 2015.

[4] “A+E Entertainment | Hearst Media.” Hearst.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 30 Nov. 2015.

[5] “A & E Television Networks History.” History of A & E Television Networks – FundingUniverse. N.p., n.d. Web. 29 Nov. 2015.

[6] “A&E Television Networks, Major Television Networks.” Moviestaff. N.p., n.d. Web. 02 Dec. 2015.

[7] “A+E at 30: How a Tiny Network Became a $26 Billion Success Story.” The Hollywood Reporter. N.p., n.d. Web. 02 Dec. 2015.

[8] “Vice Media Gets Channel on A+E Networks.” WSJ. N.p., n.d. Web. 02 Dec. 2015.

[9] “VICE AND A+E NETWORKS ANNOUNCE NEW TV NETWORK VICELAND (WORKING TITLE).” A+E Networks – Life Is Entertaining. A+E Networks – Life Is Entertaining, n.d. Web. 02 Dec. 2015.

[10] “Vice Will Take Over A+E Networks’ H2 Next Year, Rebranding It as Viceland.” AdWeek. AdWeek, n.d. Web. 28 Nov. 2015.

[11] “Vice & A+E Networks To Launch Viceland TV Channel In 2016 That Will Replace H2.” Deadline. Deadline, 03 Nov. 2015. Web. 28 Nov. 2015.

[12] “Critics’ Choice Movie & TV Awards Merge To Become One Show.” Deadline. Deadline, 30 Sept. 2015. Web. 29 Nov. 2015.

[13] “A+E Launches Asterisk Internet-Media Brand with New Spins on History (Exclusive).” Variety. N.p., 13 Apr. 2015. Web. 02 Dec. 2015.

[14] “A+E Networks Launches Digital Brand “Asterisk”.” Realscreen. Realscreen, n.d. Web. 02 Dec. 2015.

[15] “A&E Television Networks, LLC: Private Company Information.” Bloomberg.com. Bloomberg, n.d. Web. 02 Dec. 2015.

[16] “Liberty Global And A+E Networks Expand Pan-European Partnership.” Deadline. Deadline, 02 Nov. 2015. Web. 02 Dec. 2015.

[17] “ANNUALREPORT2014.” Online Annual Report. N.p., n.d. Web. 02 Dec. 2015.

[18] “LBJ Would Wipe the Floor with Frank Underwood.” Asterisk. Asterisk, 10 Apr. 2015. Web. 02 Dec. 2015.

[19] “A&E Television Networks, LLC.” |Company Profile|Vault.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 02 Dec. 2015.

[20] “HISTORY PROMOTES TWO PROGRAMMING EXECUTIVES AND ADDS NEW VICE PRESIDENT OF DEVELOPMENT & PROGRAMMING.” A+E Networks – Life Is Entertaining. N.p., n.d. Web. 02 Dec. 2015.

[21] “STACY GREEN ELEVATED TO EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, GLOBAL HUMAN RESOURCES & FACILITIES A+E NETWORKS.” A+E Networks – Life Is Entertaining. N.p., n.d. Web. 02 Dec. 2015.

[22] “Arturo Interian.” Variety. N.p., 10 Sept. 2013. Web. 02 Dec. 2015.

[23] “Stacy Green.” Variety. N.p., 16 Dec. 2013. Web. 02 Dec. 2015.

[24] “A+E Networks Names Jana Bennett President & General Manager of HISTORY.” TV By The Numbers by Zap2itcom. N.p., 18 Sept. 2015. Web. 02 Dec. 2015.

[25] “A&E – Shows, Schedules, Full Episodes & Videos.” Aetv. N.p., n.d. Web. 02 Dec. 2015.

[26] “A&E NETWORK SET TO AIR THE HIGHLY ANTICIPATED ORIGINAL DRAMA SERIES “THE FRANKENSTEIN CHRONICLES” IN THE US.” A+E Networks – Life Is Entertaining. N.p., n.d. Web. 02 Dec. 2015.

[27] “A&E NETWORK TO PREMIERE NEW ORIGINAL DOCU-SERIES ‘BORN THIS WAY’ TUESDAY, DECEMBER 8 AT 10:00 PM ET/PT.” A+E Networks – Life Is Entertaining. N.p., n.d. Web. 02 Dec. 2015.

[28] “A&E NETWORK PREMIERES SEASON FOUR OF SCRIPTED CRIME DRAMA “UNFORGETTABLE”” A+E Networks – Life Is Entertaining. N.p., n.d. Web. 02 Dec. 2015.

[29] “History.com.” History.com. A&E Television Networks, n.d. Web. 02 Dec. 2015.

[30] “HISTORY® Greenlights Docu-Drama ‘Barbarians Rising’ Revealing the True Stories of Legendary Warriors.” A+E Networks – Life Is Entertaining. N.p., n.d. Web. 02 Dec. 2015.

[31] “HISTORY® GREENLIGHTS NEW SERIES ‘JOIN OR DIE WITH CRAIG FERGUSON’.” A+E Networks – Life Is Entertaining. N.p., n.d. Web. 02 Dec. 2015.

[32] “HISTORY®, A&E AND LIFETIME GREENLIGHT ROOTS.” A+E Networks – Life Is Entertaining. N.p., n.d. Web. 02 Dec. 2015.

[33] “Lifetime TV & Movies, Full Episodes, Games & Sweepstakes.” Lifetime TV & Movies, Full Episodes, Games & Sweepstakes. N.p., n.d. Web. 02 Dec. 2015.

[34] “WAR & PEACE REIMAGINED FOR A NEW GENERATION PREMIERES ON LIFETIME, A&E AND HISTORY JANUARY 18.” A+E Networks – Life Is Entertaining. N.p., n.d. Web. 02 Dec. 2015.

[35] “GET READY TO BE PITCH SLAPPED WITH LIFETIME’S NEW A CAPPELLA DOCUSERIES PREMIERING JANUARY 5.” A+E Networks – Life Is Entertaining. N.p., n.d. Web. 02 Dec. 2015.

[36] “FYI Network – Shows, Schedules, Full Episodes & Videos.” FYI.tv. N.p., n.d. Web. 02 Dec. 2015.

[37] “FYI’S NEW ORIGINAL SERIES “#BLACKLOVE” PREMIERES TUESDAY, DECEMBER 8 AT 10:15PM ET.” A+E Networks – Life Is Entertaining. N.p., n.d. Web. 02 Dec. 2015.

[38] “FYI™ PREMIERES PRIMETIME TALK SHOW “KOCKTAILS WITH KHLOÉ” WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9 AT 10PM ET.” A+E Networks – Life Is Entertaining. N.p., n.d. Web. 02 Dec. 2015.

A+E Television Networks

Posted on by 
by Jordan Robinson

A&E Television Networks

AETN

Headquarters:

235 E 45th St
New York City, NY,
United States 10017

About

A&E Television Networks (AETN), LLC is an American media company that offers a variety of television channels via cable and satellite in both the U.S. and overseas. As a joint venture between Hearst Corporation and The Walt Disney Company, AETN channels include A&E, Crime and Investigation Network, fyi, History, H2, History en Español, Lifetime, LMN, Lifetime Real Women, and Military History.1 Spanning across multiple platforms, A&E Television Networks offers content in a variety of media forms including television programming, websites, music, and video content. Their principal competitors include the Discovery Channel, AMC Networks and Public Broadcasting Service.1, 2

Key Executives:

Nancy Dubuc

Nancy Dubuc

Nancy Dubuc has resided as President and CEO of A&E Television networks since June of 2013.  Under her charge, the network has seen rapid growth. In September 2014, Dubuc oversaw A+E Networks’ acquisition of a 10% stake in Vice Media. Dubuc has received multiple Emmy awards and nominations throughout her 15 year tenure at A+E Networks as network executive, programmer, and producer.  According to Dubuc, “Great content should create an experience beyond the TV, across every platform our audience uses.” As such, she has been an integral part of the company’s convergence across multiple platforms as they try to reach a wider audience. 6

Abbe Raven

Abbe Raven

Abbe Raven was appointed chairman of A&E Television Networks in June 2013.  Under her charge, A&E Networks tripled their earnings as she has overseen the company’s expanding global portfolio since April 2005.  She currently serves as vice chairman on the board of directors of the NCTA and is on the boards of the NAMIC Foundation and the CTAM Educational Foundation. She also serves as vice chairman of the advisory board of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History. 7

History

Derived from humble beginnings, A&E Television Networks started out with a lone channel, A&E, which offered a mixture of cultural programming including jazz performances, symphonic concerts, celebrity interviews, classic movies and documentaries. After striking a deal with BBC in its first year, two thirds of their programming came from first rights to BBC content. By it’s third year of inception, A&E Television Networks was already receiving high acclaim as the greatest producer of quality arts and entertainment media in America. After widening their range of content in the late 1980’s and early 90’s, historical documentaries and off-network sitcoms were introduced along with higher ratings. ²

By the mid 1990’s, Biography and the History Channel have rapidly become the most respected and widely viewed of the Network’s programming.  Grossing over 35 million subscribers by 1996, the Network decided to enter into the international market to promote their programming in countries such as Brazil, Mexico, The United Kingdom, and Canada. Currently their international networks are comprised of A&E Networks UK and A&E Networks Asia, operating over 6 channels in each market in countries such as England, Norway, Sweden, India, and Malaysia. ¹

After merging with Lifetime Entertainment Networks in 2009, A&E began to revamp their channels under the guidance of A&E Networks CEO Nancy Dubuc. As a result, the Bio channel has now merged under the fyi channel, and many stagnant shows have been dropped from their line up. 6

Acquisition of Vice Media

Early this fall A+E Networks aquired 10% of Vice Media in exchange for $250 million dollars.  Similar to A&E’s objectives, the partnership and investment will fund Vice’s expansion into a wider array of global programming about news, fashion, sports, culture and more.  “They are a very powerful brand, and it cannot be underestimated their ability to reach a very hard-to-reach audience,” said Nancy Dubuc, chief executive of A&E Networks. ³

Critics’ Choice Awards

critics-choice-logo

As of September 2014, A&E Networks has formed a new partnership with the Broadcast Film Critics Association and the Broadcast Television Journalists Association to televise “The Critics’ Choice Movie Awards” and “The Critics’ Choice Television Awards” for 2015 and 2016.  The 20th annual Critics’ Choice Movie Awards ceremony will be held on Thursday, January 15, 2015, and will be broadcast live on A&E from The Hollywood Palladium officially kicking off film award season. 5

Global Expansion

Currently A&E Networks are producing content specifically tailored toward different markets using the same shows but incorporating them into African, Asian, European, and Australian markets.  Shows include Pawn UK, Pawn South Africa, Aussie Pickers, Italian Pickers, and Dance Mums.  This move demonstrates their outreach to underdeveloped areas as well as areas that have never before seen such content. 9

Making HISTORY: First Ever Television + College Credit Course Now Offered

The University of Oklahoma and A+E Network’s HISTORY Channel is partnering to offer the very first TV Network-branded online course for transferable college credit.  The course is offered to students or for the lifelong learner.  The course will be instructed by award winning teacher, OU professor, and renowned historian Steve Gillon. As HISTORY Channel’s first academic course, United States, 1865 to the Present is shattering the barracade between education and entertainment.

Set to last 4 months, the interactive course will be offered during the Spring Semester, officially begining on January 12, 2015.  Offering a collaborative learning experience to a wide range of students, the program combines professionally-produced and intriguing video lectures with quizzes, tests, discussion groups and social interactions between student and professor.  The course also integrates multimedia resources from the HISTORY Channel’s website.

At a cost of $500, the value-priced course for college credit targets current college students looking to meet their graduation requirements, as well as high school students who wish to get a jumpstart on their college education. Upon successful completion of the course, students receive three transferable college credits that will apply to any regionally accredited school. 4

A New Production Deal with Producer Carlton Cuse

Carlton Cuse

Carlton Cuse

A+E Studios has signed a three-year, first-look development agreement with prolific producer, writer, and two-time Emmy winner Carlton Cuse. This partnership marks A+E Studios’ first overall production deal with a creator/writer-producer since its inception.

Currently working as a writer/producer on five active series, Cuse has been named one of today’s most prolific producers.  Currently, he works as executive producer of both “Bates Motel” and the upcoming series “The Returned” for A&E Network, in addition to “The Strain” for FX. Cuse is also in pre-production on “Colony” for USA Network.  Perhaps best known for his work on “Lost,” Cuse served as executive producer, co-showrunner, and head writer with Damon Lindelof for a total of six seasons on ABC. Having received a total of 10 Emmy nominations and 2 wins for his work, Cuse continues to amaze audiences of all ages. 8

Sources

1.) “A & E Television Networks History.” History of A & E Television Networks –  FundingUniverse. Web. 18 Nov. 2014.  <http://www.fundinguniverse.com/company-histories/a-e-television-networks-history/>.

2.) “A&E Television Networks, LLC Company Profile – Yahoo Finance.” A&E Television Networks, LLC Company Profile – Yahoo Finance. Web. 18 Nov. 2014. <http://biz.yahoo.com/ic/47/47295.html>.

3.) Steel, Emily. “Vice Lands 2nd Investment, to Fuel Expansion.” The New York Times. The New York Times, 03 Sept. 2014. Web. 19 Nov. 2014. <http://www.nytimes.com/2014/09/04/business/media/vice-lands-2nd-investment-to-fuel-expansion.html?_r=0>.

4.) https://historychannel.ou.edu/mkwid=sSrmg0g4I|c_pcrid_56451629358_pkw_history%20channel%20college_pmt_p&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=history%20channel%20college&utm_campaign=History+Class&paidlink=1&cmpid=PaidSearch_google_History+Class_history%20channel%20college&gclid=CMPIrY3Th8ICFcxQ7AodwjcAWw

5.)”Critics’ Choice Awards.” Critics Choice Awards Blog Posts RSS. Web. 19 Nov. 2014. <http://www.criticschoice.com/movie-awards/>. 

6.) “Nancy Dubuc.” A+E Networks – Life Is Entertaining. Web. 19 Nov. 2014. <http://www.aenetworks.com/about/executive/nancy-dubuc>.

7.) “Abbe Raven.” A+E Networks – Life Is Entertaining. Web. 19 Nov. 2014. <http://www.aenetworks.com/about/executive/abbe-raven>.

8.) “Carlton Cuse, A&E Sign First-Look Development Deal.” Variety. Web. 19 Nov. 2014. <http://variety.com/2014/tv/news/carlton-cuse-ae-sign-first-look-development-deal-1201326747/>.

9.)  “A&E TELEVISION NETWORKS, LLC.” |Company Profile|Vault.com. Web. 21 Nov. 2014. <http://www.vault.com/company-profiles/media-entertainment/ae-television-networks,-llc/company-overview.aspx>.

Image Sources:

A&E Logo:  http://www.gopusa.com/news/wp-content/blogs.dir/3/files/2013/12/ae_network.jpg

Nancy Dubuc:  http://www.disneybymark.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Nancy_Dubuc.jpg

Abbe Raven:  http://www.buffalo.edu/content/dam/www/news/imported/hires/AbbeRaven2.jpg

Carlton Cuse:  https://image-cdn.zap2it.com/images/carlton-cuse-lost-bates-motel-tca-gi.jpg

Critics’ Choice Movie Awards:  http://pmcdeadline2.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/critics-choice-movie-award__120113100547.jpg

A+E Television Networks

Posted on by 
by Caley Wildermuth
A+E Network Logo

A+E Network Logo – photo courtesy of C21Media (1)

HEADQUARTERS
235 E. 45th Street
New York, NY 1001
www.aenetworks.com

 

KEY EXECUTIVES

Chairman and Past President/CEO, A+E Networks

Abbe Raven – Chairman and Past President/CEO, A+E Networks – photo courtesy of A+E Networks (2)

Nancy Dubuc - President and CEO, A+E Networks (2)

Nancy Dubuc – President and CEO, A+E Networks – photo courtesy of A+E Networks (3)

Robert DeBitetto - President, Brand Strategy, Business Development and A+E Studios, A+E Networks (3)

Robert DeBitetto –
President, Brand Strategy, Business Development and A+E Studios, A+E Networks – A+E Courtesy of A+E Networks (4)

ABOUT

Beginning in 1984 as a joint venture between The Hearst Corporation and The Walt Disney Company, A+E Television Networks is now an international media company with over ten channels, six original brands, and owner and operator of the informative historical website Bio (5). Standing for “Arts and Entertainment” Television, the company reaches over 330 million homes of 160 markets in over 60 different languages and a variety of genres, including both reality and scripted shows. Their ten channels include A&E, Lifetime, Lifetime Movie Network, History, H2, Military History, FYI, Crime and Investigation, History en Español, and Lifetime Real Women (6). Top shows across all channels include History’s Vikings and Pawn Stars, Lifetime’s Devious Maids and Dance Moms, and A+E’s Duck Dynasty and Bate’s Motel (3).

(5)

Logos of all A+E Network Channels – photo courtesy of A+E Networks  (5)

HISTORY

Created in 1984, the company only consisted of one channel: The Arts and Entertainment Channel. Although small in the beginning, the channel’s first-ever original programming propelled the company to new heights. Beginning with only 9 million subscribers, the company began to stray away from their original theme of fine art content into content more accustomed for a younger audience. This included historical documentaries and sitcoms that helped boost subscriptions. One of their most popular series was the show Biography, a docuseries that chronicled the lives and stories of famous celebrities and societal figures and brought the channel its first Emmy nomination in 1990. (7)

As subscriptions skyrocketed, the channel officially changed its name to A & E on its 10th anniversary and began to refocus its image into three themes: “biographies, mysteries, and specials” (7). With this rebranding, the company launched three new channels including the History Channel, the History International Channel (now known as H2), and the Biography Channel, which was recently rebranded as the new channel, FYI. By 2001, the History Channel hit 70 million subscribers, making it the fastest cable network to hit those numbers since launch. Continuing their expansion, in 2009 A+E Networks combined with Lifetime Entertainment Services to add the various Lifetime channels (6). The company is now just celebrating their 30th year anniversary and is considered to be worth $26 billion (8).

FINANCIALS

A+E Television Networks is not a publicly traded company, therefore no information regarding financials could be found.

CHANNEL NEWS AND HIGHLIGHTS OF FALL SEASON

A+E Networks saw many high points with the close of the fall and 2014. Twelve of its shows broke the list of top 50 most watched shows for age group 25-54 (3). Listed below are some of those highlights.

(7)

History Channel Logo – photo courtesy of A+E Networks (9)

History Channel
Houdini Sparks Big
Starring Academy Award winner, Adrien Brody, the miniseries chronicled the life of the ever-mysterious and famous magician, Houdini. The show reached over 3.7 million viewers on its first night, “making it cable’s number one miniseries premiere of 2014” (10).

Screen Shot 2014-11-30 at 1.40.43 PM

FYI Channel Logo – photo courtesy of A+E Networks  (11)

FYI
New Channel Fares Well
Rebranded in summer 2014, the Bio Channel is now FYI, a lifestyle network with a contemporary twist (12). With high hopes for the new channel, their original show Married at First Sight fared well, setting records among both the FYI and Bio network brands, reaching 903,000 viewers during the season finale (13).

Screen Shot 2014-11-30 at 6.51.04 PM

Married at First Sight Advertisement – photo courtesy of A+E Networks (14)

(12)

Lifetime Channel Logo – photo courtesy of A+E Networks  (15)

Lifetime
Devious Maids and Project Runway Soar
After finishing up season two this past summer as the number one cable show for its time slot for women 18-49, Lifetime has officially announced there will be a third season soon for Devious Maids (16). Project Runway also continues its legacy after finishing its 13th season finale in October and immediately rolling into a spin-off show, Project Runway: Threads, featuring teen designers (17).

 

A+E

A&E Channel Logo – photo courtesy of A+E Networks (18)

A&E
Past Hits Continue On, Others Canceled
Two hits for the channel, Bates Motel and Duck Dynasty, were renewed for their third and seventh seasons respectively (19). Duck Dynasty’s season premiere launched November 19th, but many fans fear the show will be cancelled due to recent drops in ratings (20). On the other hand, this past fall, A&E cancelled their hit show, Longmire, to the shock of most fans as show was one of A&E’s most watched original dramas. Speculators believe the show was pulled as it appealed to too old an audience and A&E didn’t have a stake in the production as the show is produced by Time Warner (21).

()

Bates Motel Advertisement – photo courtesy of deadline.com (22)

(14)

Duck Dynasty Logo – photo courtesy of popsugar.com (23)

COMPANY NEWS

A+E Purchases 10% Stake in Vice Media

(15)

Vice Media Logo – photo courtesy of advice.com (24)

This past fall, A+E Networks beat out Time Warner and purchased a 10% stake in Vice Media in exchange for $250 million. Vice Media is a digital news organization that targets the young male demographic through its informative website, YouTube Channel, and popular HBO-owned TV show, Vice. CEO, Nancy Dubuc managed the deal, stating it was a good move for the company as Vice Media’s demographic reach complimented A+E’s own History channel  (25).

Carlton Cuse Signs First-Look Deal with A+E Studios

(16)

Carlton Cuse – photo courtesy of nab.org (26)

Famous producer and writer of popular shows such as Lost, The Strain, and A+E’s own Bates Motel, Carlton Cuse has just signed a “three-year first-look deal with A+E Studios,” the first ever production deal with a writer in the history of the network (27). The deal requires Cuse to work closely with A+E Studios EVP, Barry Jessen, to develop quality original content for the channel over the next three years (28).

History Channel Offers 1st Ever TV-Branded Online Course for Credit

On October 28th, History officially launched open enrollment for the first-ever TV-branded online course, United States 1865 to Present. The channel teamed up with University of Oklahoma to offer this unique and interactive course for transferrable credit and it will be taught by renowned OU professor and scholar-in-residence at the History Channel, Steve Gillon. The course is expected to use interactive video lectures, quizzes, and discussions all intermixed with History Channel content to strengthen and deepen one’s understanding of American history and will last for 16 weeks during Spring 2015 (29).

A+E Networks Named 2015 Company of Distinction at Banff World Media Festival

(18)

Banff World Media Festival Logo and Advertisement – photo courtesy of film button.com (30)

The Banff World Media Festival recently announced their decision to choose A+E Networks as their 2015 Company of Distinction to be honored at the festival from June 7-10, 2015 in Banff, Canada (31). The festival is a three day long conference bringing together top media leaders and companies internationally to discuss issues facing the industry and to serve as a platform for creative development, networking, and production (32). According the festival itself, the award is given to media companies “demonstrating significant leadership in the world of screen-based entertainment.” Previous winners of the award include CBS Corporation and Lionsgate Entertainment (31).

Sources

(1) “A+E Networks“, C21Media, RT: 11/30/14

(2) Abbe Raven, A+E Networks, RT: 11/30/14

(3) Nancy Dubuc, A+E Networks, RT: 11/30/14

(4) Robert DiBitetto, A+E Networks, RT:11/30/14

(5) A+E Television Networks, LLC Company Profile, Hoovers, RT: 11/30/14

(6) About Us, A+E Networks, RT: 11/30/2014

(7) A & E Television Networks History, FundingUniverse, RT: 11/30/14

(8) “A+E at 30: How a Tiny Network Became a $26 Billion Success Story,” The Hollywood Reporter, 3/28/14, RT: 11/30/14

(9) HISTORY, A+E Networks, RT: 11/30/2014

(10) “Houdini Mesmerizes 3.7 Million Viewers,” A+E Networks, 9/2/2014, RT: 11/30/14

(11) FYI, A+E Networks, RT: 11/30/2014

(12) “Bio to Rebrand as FYI, a ‘Contemporary Lifestyle’ Network,” Adweek, 12/11/13, RT: 11/30/14

(13) “FYI’s ‘Married at First Sight’ Season One Finale Becomes Most-Watched Telecast in Network History,” A+E Networks, 9/10/14, RT: 11/30/14

(14) Married at First Sight, A+E Networks, RT: 11/30/14

(15) Lifetime, A+E Networks, RT: 11/30/14

(16) “Lifetime Renews Devious Maids for Third Season,” A+E Networks, 9/26/14, RT: 11/30/14

(17) “Lifetime’s All New Fashion Competition Series Project Runway: Threads, Tailor-Made for Teen Fashionistas, Premieres October 23,” A+E Networks, 9/16/14, RT: 11/30/14

(18) A&E, A+E Networks, RT: 11/30/14

(19) Recent News, A+E Networks, RT: 11/30/14

(20) “‘Duck Dynasty’ Cancelled? Willie Robertson Talks Ratings Drop, Duck Commander Plans,” Inquisitir, 8/21/14, RT: 11/30/14

(21) “Why TV Hit ‘Longmire’ Got Canceled: Fans Too Old,” The Wall Street Journal, 9/11/14, RT: 11/30/14

(22) “A&E’s ‘Bates Motel’ Renewed For Third Season,” Deadline, 4/7/14, RT: 11/30/14

(23) Duck Dynasty Logo, PopSugar, RT: 11/30/14

(24) “Vice Won an Emmy Award” Advice, 8/18/14, RT: 11/30/14

(25) “A+E Networks Outbids Time Warner For 10% Vice Media Stake,” Deadline, 8/29/14, RT: 11/30/14

(26) “Executive Producers of ‘Lost’ on Tap at NAB Show,” NAB, 2/14/2008, RT: 11/30/14

(27) “Cuse Signs First-Look Deal With A+E,” Broadcasting & Cable, 10/10/14, RT: 11/30/14

(28) “Carlton Cuse, A&E Sign First-Look Development Deal,” Variety, 10/10/14, RT: 11/30/14

(29) “History Launches Online Course for Credit,” A+E Networks, 10/28/14, RT: 11/30/14

(30) “Banff World Media Festival Registration Open,” FILMbutton, 2/6/12, RT: 11/30/14

(31) “A+E Networks Named 2015 Company of Distinction at Banff World Media Festival,” A+E Networks, 10/15/14, RT: 11/30/14

(32) About the Banff World Media Festival, BANFF, RT: 11/30/14

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Discovery Communications

Posted on by

 

By Aly Piekarsky
Discovery_Communications

Discovery Communications Logo [1]

Discovery Communications World Headquarters

One Discovery Place
Silver Spring, MD 20910
Tel: 240.662.2000

http://corporate.discovery.com

Key Executives [2]

David M. Zaslav, President and CEO, Discovery Communications

david-zaslav2_

David M. Zaslav [3]

Andrew Warren, Senior Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer

andy_warren

Andrew Warren [4]

David C. Leavy, Chief Communications Officer, Seniors Executive Vice President, Corporate Marketing & Affairs

David C. Leavy

David C. Leavy [5]

Mark Hollinger, President and CEO, Discovery Networks International

Mark Hollinger

Mark Hollinger [6]

Company Overview [7]

Discovery Communications' Mission Statement

Discovery Communications’ Mission Statement [8]

Discovery communications is the world’s #1 nonfiction media company that began as a single channel-the Discovery Channel-and evolved into a global mass media entertainment company that has over 190 worldwide television networks. Discovery currently operates 14 U.S. cable and satellite TV networks, including the Discovery Channel, TLC, Animal Planet, and the Military Channel. It also operates 3 joint venture networks in the U.S. including the Oprah Winfrey Network, The Hub, and 3net, the first 24-hour 3D network.

Top Competitors [9]

A&E Television Networks, LLC

NBCUniversal Media, LLC

Viacom Inc.

Financial Information

Discovery Communications celebrated a record-breaking 2012 and a very strong first quarter of 2013, with its best January to date and an overall 20% increase in US viewership. [10] Viewership among the key 25-54 demographic increased 10% in primetime. In 2012, the company’s revenue increased 8% to $4.487 billion, mainly due to a 5% growth at U.S. networks and 13% growth at International Networks. [11] From the first quarter to the second quarter of 2013, revenues increased 30% from $1,156 million to $1,467 million. [12] Stock prices for Discovery Communications, Inc. (DISCA) ranged from $84.06-$84.99 on Tuesday, November 12, 2013. In the past 52 weeks, stock prices have ranged from $54.89-$89.58. [13]

Facts and Figures

Facts and Figures: “Subscriber numbers as of September 30, 2013, according to The Nielsen Company in the US.” [14]

Discovery Channel 

2012 at the Discovery Channel was marked by immense success, due in part to the return of hit series such as Gold Rush and Moonshiners and the emergence of breakout hits such as Fast N’ Loud, Jungle Gold, and Amish Mafia. Amish Mafia was an incredible success for the Discovery Channel as the highest-rated premiere in the channel’s history. Due to the success of its programming, viewership increased 14% from 2011 and 20% in January of 2013. [11]

In 2014, the Discovery Channel will venture to Kodiak Island in Alaska for a series in which viewers will encounter the obstacles that three multi-generational families face living on the deadly island. [15]

TLC

Theresa Caputo from TLC's Hit Series "Long Island Medium"

Theresa Caputo from TLC’s Hit Series “Long Island Medium” [16]

In 2013, 30 series returned to TLC, including Here Comes Honey Boo Boo, Long Island Medium, Sister Wives, and Breaking Amish, TLC’s highest-rated new series to date. As Discovery’s female flagship brand, TLC prides itself on being the most widely distributed female-targeted lifestyle and entertainment brand in pay-TV. The channel reaches nearly 300 million households in over 150 markets. [11]

 Investigation Discovery (ID)

Investigation Discovery Logo

Investigation Discovery Logo [18]

Investigation Discovery features 24/7 “news” shows that depict true murder cases in the template of re-enactments. [17] 2012 was Investigation Discovery’s best year to date, as it delivered 45 consecutive months of year-over-year primetime gains among its key demographic (the longest streak among any cable network supported by advertisers.) [11] On Tuesday, November 12, 2013, ID launched its newest series A Crime to Remember, which highlights stories of real-life murder cases of the ‘50s and ‘60s. [19] Investigation Discovery also launched a new series titled Elder Skelter on November 6, 2013, which tells the horrifying stories of senior citizens who committed cold and calculated murders. [20]

Animal Planet

Animal Planet also celebrated 2012 as its best year-to-date, with a 17% increase in viewership from 2011. Programs such as River Monsters, Finding Bigfoot, Call of the Wildman, and Tanked paved the way for Animal Planets’ success. The future is looking bright for Animal Planet, as it is expected to continue its audience growth in the coming years. [11] On November 9, 2013, Animal Planet debuted its new series Meet The Sloths, which takes viewers behind the scenes of the lives of sloths. To promote the show, Animal Planet L!VE will feature a 24/7 Sloth Cam, broadcasting live from Zoo Atlanta.  [21]

Animal Planet Logo

Animal Planet Logo [22]

Animalist [14]

In October of 2013, Discovery launched Animalist, a new digital video network featuring short-form series, which explore the connection between humans and animals. The Animalist programming lineup includes new shows like Discovery Sharks and Animals With Low Self Esteem. Advertisers and partners are able to reach viewers through the new digital network across mobile, YouTube, Xbox, and online at Animalist.com.

 

Continued Momentum at Joint Ventures [11] 

Discovery Channel’s U.S. joint venture networks, The Hub, OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network, and 3net, continue to grow and build viewership. The Hub, once available in only 56 million households at launch, is now available in 72 million. It is now the fastest-growing kids’ cable network in 2012, as it experienced 14% gains in the fourth quarter of 2012 among kids 2 to 11 in day and primetime. In November of 2013, The Hub launched a series of children’s webisodes called Spookesville Freak Files and an online game Streets of Spookesville. [23]

Oprah Winfrey Network experienced a 36% audience growth in 2012 and continues to grow in popularity. In the second quarter of 2013, OWN Network began to generate a profit and will begin to pay back Discovery Communications for its investment in the network. [24]

3net, Discovery Communications’ joint venture 3D channel with Sony and IMAX gained additional distribution in 2012 and continues to expand its content library.

 

 Recent Company News

On November 7, 2012, Discovery Communications announced its acquisition of Espresso

Espresso Education

Espresso Education [26]

Education, the leading provider of digital education content for primary school in the United Kingdom. The business will be overseen by the education division of Discovery. This marks Discovery’s first purchase of an international education company.

 

  • Acquisition of SBS Nordic Operations of ProSiebenSat.1 Group

On April 9, 2012, Discovery Communications announced the acquisition of the SBS Nordic operations of ProSiebenSat.1 Group. This purchase adds an additional 12 television networks, along with several radio stations and digital brands to Discovery’s portfolio. Together, these properties in Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Finland form SBS Discovery Media, a combined regional business. [27]

 

  • Discovery, Time Warner Cable Renew Carriage Deal

On November 18, 2013, Discovery Communications and Time Warner Cable announced

Time Warner Cable Logo

Time Warner Cable Logo [29]

the early renewal of their carriage deal, which permits  Bright House Networks to continue offering Discovery’s networks. The deal also includes TV everywhere rights, which allows Time Warner Cable subscribers to view the Discovery programming online, including on tablets and smartphones. The financials of the agreement were not released. This is the first time Discovery has agreed to make its shows available online to pay-TV subscribers. [28]

 

 

 

Sources:

[1] http://www.brandsoftheworld.com/logo/discovery-channel-4

[2]  http://corporate.discovery.com/leadership/

[3] http://corporate.discovery.com/leadership/david-zaslav/

[4] http://corporate.discovery.com/leadership/andrew-warren/

[5] http://corporate.discovery.com/leadership/david-leavy/

[6] http://corporate.discovery.com/leadership/mark-hollinger/

[7]  http://corporate.discovery.com/our-company/overview/

[8] http://corporate.discovery.com/our-company/overview/

[9]  http://www.hoovers.com/company-information/cs/company-profile.Discovery_Communications_Inc.ac0da8acf4dc6039.html

[10] http://interbrand.com/en/best-global-brands/2013/Discovery

[11] http://ir.corporate.discovery.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=222412&p=irol-reportsAnnual

[12] http://ir.corporate.discovery.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=222412&p=irol-reportsOther

[13] http://finance.yahoo.com/q?s=DISCA

[14] http://ir.corporate.discovery.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=222412&p=irol-newsletter

[15] http://tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com/2013/11/01/new-series-kodiak-to-premiere-on-the-discovery-channel-in-2014/212978/

[16] http://www.insideedition.com/investigative/5331-the-long-island-medium-can-she-really-communicate-with-the-dead

[17] http://www.cityweekly.net/utah/article-5-18280-investigation-discovery-dead-sexy.html

[18] http://nlmg.net/discovery-id/

[19] http://www.broadwayworld.com/bwwtv/article/Investigation-Discovery-to-Premiere-New-Series-A-CRIME-TO-REMEMBER-1112-20131111

[20] http://www.broadwayworld.com/bwwtv/article/Investigation-Discovery-to-Premiere-New-Series-ELDER-SKELTER-Today-20131105

[21] http://variety.com/2013/tv/news/animal-planet-dives-into-pop-cultures-sloth-fixation-1200774935/

[22] http://joesterloriagroup.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Animal_Planet.png

[23] http://www.4-traders.com/DISCOVERY-COMMUNICATIONS-9015/news/Discovery-Communications-Inc–Hubworldcom-Launches-Spookesville-Freak-Files-Webisodes-and-Stre-17456025/

[24] http://nypost.com/2013/07/30/oprah-winfreys-own-network-turns-a-profit-in-q2-six-months-ahead-of-schedule/

[25] http://www.sacbee.com/2013/11/07/5889741/discovery-communications-announces.html

[26] http://espressoeducation.wordpress.com

[27] http://corporate.discovery.com/discovery-news/discovery-communications-completes-acquisition-sbs/

[28] http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702303985504579206111735425786

[29] http://www.polygon.com/2013/1/19/3893532/time-warner-cable-banning-select-gun-ads

A+E Television Networks

Posted on by 
by Aaron Goldsmith
A+E Television Networks Logo

A+E Networks (1)

A+E Television Networks
235 East 45th Street
New York, NY 10017
(212) 210-1400

Mission Statement:

“At A+E Networks, we are passionate about bringing human stories to life, knowing that it is in life itself that those stories originate. We are committed to empowering our employees, strengthening our partnerships and engaging audiences across the globe.

Life is what you make it. We make it entertaining,” (1).

The Executives:

Abbe Raven, President and Chief Executive Officer, A + E Networks

Abbe Raven, President and Chief Executive Officer, A+E Networks (1)

Nancy Dubac, President, Entertainment and Media, A+E Networks

Nancy Dubac, President, Entertainment and Media, A+E Networks (1)

Robert DeBitetto, President and General Manager, A&E Network and BIO

Robert DeBitetto, President and General Manager, A&E Network and BIO (1)

Melvin Berning, President, Ad Sales

Melvin Berning, President, Ad Sales (1)

About A+E Television Networks:

Beginning in 1984, A+E Television Networks is an “award-winning global media content company,” that serves the consumer base through primarily television networks as well as websites, DVD and Blu-Ray distribution, and education programming and software. With their headquarters based out of New York and offices in London and Singapore, A+E Television Networks prides itself on being a “Global Brand” with channels and branded programming in over 150 countries and 37 different languages, with over 300 million viewers. A+E Networks in divided into 10 different television networks as well as A+E Networks International, A+E Networks Digital, A&E IndieFilms, and A+E Networks Consumer Products (1).

Their Networks and Now:

A&E

A&E (1)

“A&E is Real Life. Drama.” This A+E Networks channel provides top-rated content from reality shows to scripted dramas (1). Current Top Shows: Duck Dynasty, Bates Motel, Storage Wars, The First 48, American Hoggers, and Intervention (4).

What’s Happening Now:

  • April 2, 2013: A&E reports its best quarter in network history due to its high ratings for Bates Motel, Duck Dynasty, and Storage Wars. This past March was the networks highest rated month since in network history (3).
  • March 19, 2013: Bates Motel, A&E’s newest scripted drama, premiered March 18 with a viewership of 3.0 million people making it A&E’s “most-watched original drama series debut among the key 18-49 and 25-54 demos.” The show serves as a prequel to Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho (3).
  • February 28, 2013: The season three premiere of A&E’s nonfiction series Duck Dynasty on February 27 had a total viewership of 8.6 million. Duck Dynasty is now the network’s #1 telecast in the history of the network and “the #1 nonfiction series on cable in 2013,” (3).
  • January 4, 2013: Pre-production has begun on A&E’s newest reality series, Rodeo Girls. The show reveals the “chic and cutthroat” lives of professional woman rodeo competitors. A&E is working with The Weinstein Company for the eight one-hour episode order (3).
  • January 4, 2013: A&E is to premiere a new real life series, The Governor’s Wife, on February 27 after ordering 12 episodes from Leftfield Pictures. The series shows the life of former Louisiana Governor Edwin Edwards who is 85 years old, his wife Trina who is 34 years old, and the family they have joined together (3).
Lifetime

Lifetime (1)

Lifetime is A+E Television Networks’ premiere network made especially for women. The network features award-winning shows of different genres, targeting different demographics of women, including reality shows, dramas, and comedies (1). Current Top Shows: Army Wives, Dance Moms, Project Runway, Preachers’ Daughters, and The Client List (5).

What’s Happening Now:

  • March 21, 2013: After a judge issued an injunction four days before its premiere, Lifetime won the rights to Romeo Killer: The Chris Porco Story, and premiered it as originally scheduled on March 23  (3).
  • February 21, 2013: Lifetime announced the lineup of March season premieres, including hit shows Army Wives and The Client List, as well as the series premiere of  Preachers’ Daughters (1).
  • January 23, 2013: Lifetime’s world premiere of its original movie, Prosecuting Casey Anthony, had a viewership of 3.3 million people, making it that night’s “number one telecast across ad-supported cable,” (1).
  • January 2, 2013: The series three premiere of Dance Moms reached a series best in ratings with 2.8 million viewers, an increase of 33% from its summer premiere in June 2012 (1).

Movies to be premiered on Lifetime:

HISTORY

HISTORY (1)

A+E Television Networks’ HISTORY channel provides original content, combining entertainment and history to  deliver programming across multiple platforms (1). Current Top Shows: Vikings, Pawn Stars, Swamp People, The Bible, and American Pickers (6).

What’s Happening Now:

    • April 2, 2013: HISTORY had the most total viewers out of all cable networks this past months, and this past quarter was the highest in the network’s history. These are due to the network’s shows’ high ratings including The Bible having 11.4 million viewers for its whole running, and both Vikings and Pawn Stars having 5.0 million viewers (1).
    • March 4, 2013: Vikings, HISTORY’s first scripted series, premiered March 3 with 6.2 million viewers. Its premiere made the show cable’s #1 series launch so far this year (1).
    • March 4, 2013: Averaging out with 14.8 million viewers over two telecasts, HISTORY’s premiere of The Bible was “the #1 cable entertainment telecast of the year,” (1).
H2

H2 (1)

H2 offers a different view of the HISTORY channel, delivering history with more entertainment and “more to explore, more to understand, More 2 History™,” (1). Top Current Shows: Ancient Aliens, America Unearthed, Mankind Decoded, and Modern Marvels (7).

What’s Happening Now:

  • January 25, 2013: A+E Networks’ H2 is premiering Miracle Rising: South Africa on February 17. The film is about South Africa’s politics throughout the years since April 1994, and the story of how the country went from apartheid to a democracy (1).
bio.

bio. (1)

Bio. is all about the truth. With shows like I Killed My BFF, I Survived…, and Celebrity Ghost Stories (9), bio. “delivers an honest portrayal of stories that will leave you amazed,” (1).

What’s Happening Now:

  • April 4, 2013: Bio.’s newest documentary, Citizen Hearst, is planned to premiere on April 23. It is about William Randolph Hearst and the story of the Hearst Corporation, directed by Leslie Iwerks (1).
Crime & Investigation Network

Crime & Investigation Network (1)

Crime & Investigation Network offers viewers with entertainment from behind-the-scenes looks at investigations, crimes, and mysteries (1). Its site features original webisodes, such as “Female Forces” and “Watching the Detectives,” while the television channel plays re-runs of popular dramas including Cold Case Files, SWAT, and The First 48 (8).

 A+E Networks Recent Ratings:

  • Cable’s Top 25 Viewership – Ending March 31, 2013 (3)
    Rank Shows Net Viewers Live + SD (000)
    2 The Bible HIST 11745
    3 Duck Dynasty A&E 8497
    6 Duck Dynasty A&E 5282
    9 Vikings HIST 4741
    14 Swamp People HIST 4557
    16 Duck Dynasty A&E 3909
    21 Duck Dynasty A&E 3470
    24 Duck Dynasty A&E 3404
  • Cable’s Top 25 Viewership – Ending March 24, 2013 (3)
    Rank Shows Net Viewers Live + SD (000)
    2 The Bible HIST 10267
    3 Duck Dynasty A&E 7839
    4 Duck Dynasty A&E 7671
    6 Swamp People HIST 4815
    7 Vikings HIST 4538
  • Cable’s Top 25 Viewership – Ending March 17, 2013 (3)
    Rank Shows Net Viewers Live + SD (000)
    1 The Bible HIST 10872
    3 Duck Dynasty A&E 8285
    4 Duck Dynasty A&E 7943
    6 Pawn Stars HIST 5059
    7 Pawn Stars HIST 5041
    10 Vikings HIST 4834
    15 American Pickers HIST 4352
    16 Swamp People HIST 4196
    17 Duck Dynasty HIST 4156
    25 Duck Dynasty A&E 3648

Sources

  1. “A+E Networks.” A+E Networks. A&E Television Networks, LLC., 2013. Web. 06 Apr. 2013. <http://www.aenetworks.com/>.
  2. “A+E Networks – Brand Identity.” YouTube. YouTube, 22 May 2012. Web. 06 Apr. 2013. <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=egQzFdDYfXE>.
  3. “TV News.” TVbytheNumbers. N.p., n.d. Web. 06 Apr. 2013. <http://tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com/>.
  4. “A&E TV.” A&E TV. N.p., n.d. Web. 06 Apr. 2013. <http://www.aetv.com/>.
  5. “MyLifetime.com.” Lifetime. N.p., n.d. Web. 06 Apr. 2013. <http://www.mylifetime.com/>.
  6. “History.com.” HISTORY. A+E Television Networks, n.d. Web. 08 Apr. 2013. <http://www.history.com/>.
  7. “About H2 – Historical Television Network from the History Channel.” History.com. A+E Television Networks, n.d. Web. 08 Apr. 2013. <http://www.history.com/h2>.
  8. “Crime & Investigation.” Crime & Investigation. N.p., n.d. Web. 08 Apr. 2013. <http://www.crimeandinvestigationnetwork.com/crime-and-investigation/>.
  9. “Bio.” Bio.com. A+E Networks Television, n.d. Web. 08 Apr. 2013. <http://www.biography.com/>.