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Discovery Communications

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By Erin Qiu, Ryan Wagner
discovery-communications[1] Discovery Communications logo

DISCOVERY COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

One Discovery Place

Silver Spring, MD 20910

240-662-2000

OVERVIEW

John Hendrick found Discovery Communications, Inc. (DCI), a global mass media and entertainment company based in Maryland, in 1985 [2]. The company first started with a single channel, The Discovery Channel, and later offered non-fiction programming through its network entertainment brands including The Learning Channel (TLC), Animal Planet, Science and Turbo/Velocity, Discovery Education, Investigation Discovery, OWN:Oprah Winfrey Network, and Eurosport. The company’s programs can be mainly separated into three types: Nonfiction, Sports, and Kids. DCI explores science fields, inspiring and entertaining people with its content. It also produces educational programs and services to schools. DCI in global entertainment reaches 3 billion cumulative subscribers in more than 220 countries and territories [3].

tlc_logo    animal-planet-logo  science-channel-logoblack-transparent  turbo velocity  discovery-education  investigation-discovery  own  eurosport
   [4] TLC         [5] Animal Planet [6]Science Channel  (7)Turbo         (8)Velocity    (9)Discovery Education (10)Investigation Discovery (11)OWN:Oprah Winfrey Network (12)Eurosport

KEY EXECUTIVES

Discovery Communications is made up of an executive board that oversees all functions of the company [13]. The President and Chief Executive Officer, David M. Zaslav, also acts as Director and member of the Executive Committee and the President and CEO of Discovery Communications Holdings LLC. Zaslay makes a salary of $10,610,000, while Andrew Warren, the Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer makes about $2,530,000 [14].

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Discovery Communications is a publicly traded company on the New York Stock Exchange in Series A under the ticket name DISCA. On November 29, 2016, the closing price per share was $27.65. Over the previous 52 weeks, Discovery Communications has marked its highest sale price at $31.39 and its lowest sale price at $23.66 [15]. Over the past two years, DCI has noticed a decline in stock. While this drop in stock price occurred back in 2014, the company has since seen stabilization.

2 Year Overview of Stock Prices for DSCA

[16] 2 Year Overview of Stock Prices for DSCA

Much of Discovery Communication’s revenues are made possible through distribution fees charged for their services. Additional revenues are generated through consumer advertising, with national options for purchasing ad slots either upfront or in scatter markets. In fact, in 2015, distribution made up 48% of their revenue, while advertising made up 47%, leaving 5% due to other revenue [17].

In their 2016 third quarterly report, Discovery Communications identifies a 22% decrease in net income since last year’s third quarter, dropping funds from $279,000,000 to $219,000,000. Due to currency changes, DCI’s International Networks saw a decrease of 16% which was not offset by the domestic increase in network of 3%, unfortunately.

  INDUSTRY

Since its foundation in 1985 as a simple channel, DCI gradually expanded itself and established its New World Headquarters in Maryland in 2003 [18]. During these years, DCI added a second network by acquiring The Learning Channel (TLC) from Financial News Network Inc. (FNN) [19]. It also launched network’s website (Discover.com), and created channels for Animal Planet, Discovery Science, Discovery News, and partnered with Global Education to launch the Nonprofit Discovery Channel. With all these achievements, DCI became the World’s Most Widely Distributed Television Brand in 2001. After 2003, DCI continued launching networks including Discovery Education in 2004, its first First-Free-to-Air Channel in 2006, and Investigation Discovery in 2008, and teamed up with Oprah for OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network in 2011 [20]. In 2008, the owners of Discovery Communications, Advance/Newhouse and Discovery Holding combined their stakes and began trading as a public company on the NASDAQ stock exchange [21]. As DCI built partnerships and made investments in the U.S., it also paved the way to international partnerships and investments as well.

INTERNATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS AND INVESTMENTS

DCI has established its mighty international networks throughout the years since 1989 when it launched the Discovery Channel in the United Kingdom and Scandinavia [22]. Discovery Networks International includes five regional operations and covers all major cable and satellite markets, which includes the Asia-Pacific region, Central and Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa, Latin America/U.S. (Hispanic), Northern Europe, and Southern Europe. In each of these regions, DCI distributes an average of 10 channels in every market. Discovery Networks International not only offers customized schedules, but also programs in 45 languages worldwide via 352 distribution feeds [23]. Between 2014 and 2016, DCI has announced partnerships with several companies. In 2014, DCI launched the digital studio New Form with Brian Grazer and Ron Howard [24], and the same year, it acquired All3Media with Liberty Global [25]. In 2015, Liberty Global and Discovery Communications made a joint investment in Lionsgate and acquired stake in the company [26].

CURRENT PROJECTS

In August 2016, DCI and Liberty Global renewed their distribution agreement, a long-term deal that allows DCI to distribute its programs across 12 countries, including Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Poland, Romania, Netherlands, Slovakia, Switzerland and the UK in Europe. The agreement also encompasses digital rights which enable viewers to watch programs anywhere [27].

Eurosport has also obtained the rights to distribute all matches of the Wimbledon tennis tournament live in an additional 16 countries for the next three years, 2017 to 2019, by extending the deal with The All England Club. The deal includes both TV and digital rights. A new deal has also been agreed upon that allows Eurosport to present all four Grand Slams: Wimbledon, the Australian Open, Roland-Garros, and the US Open [28].

In October 2016, DCI announced a partnership with World Wildlife Fund (WWF) that conserves an almost one million acres of land for tigers in India and Bhutan. The project, Project C.A.T. (Conservation Acres for Tigers), tries to protect and increase the wild tiger population, and allows rangers to better observe wild tigers’ health and collect data. DCI would also produce and distribute public service announcements and in-program content that bound with Project C.A.T., in the purpose of raising public awareness. DCI is planning to air a new documentary about tigers on its global networks in 2018 [29].

cat[30] Project C.A.T.

FUTURE PROJECTS


In 2005, DCI gained the rights to distribute the four Oympic Games in the 2018-2024 period in Europe on all TV and all platforms, including free-to-air television, subscription/pay-TV television, internet and mobile phone in all languages across 50 countries and territories on the European continent [31]. However, DCI has to agree upon on the requirements by The International Olympic Committee (ICO) and local market to broadcast a minimum of 200 hours of the Olympic Games and 100 hours of the winter Games of free-on-air television during the Games period [32].

  20150629_CMBroadcaster Signature      olympic1
 [33][34]International Olympic Committee Awards All TV and Multiplatform 
Broadcast Rights in Europe to Discovery and Eurosport for 2018-2024 
Olympic Games

DCI made a $100 million investment and entered into a strategic partnership witn Group Nine Media. The Group Nine Media Company is a new media holding company, consisting of Thrillist Media Group, NowThis Media, The Dodo, and Discovery’s digital network Seeker. The goal is to create one of the world’s largest digital-first content companies. The brand, Media Nine Group, not only allows each individual companies to remain independent but also enables the companies to support one another. The content studio and Thrillist’s sales team, The Colab will combine with NowThis Studios, The Dodo, and Seeker’s combined content team to create a major advertising solutions group across all the new brands. The company will also combine technology capabilities to create a publishing platform to power all brands. A new video department will be generated that will be responsible for creating OTT/on-demand and linear TV programming across all properties [35].

SOURCES

[1] Discovery Communications Logo. Google Images. Retrieved: November 29th 2016.

[2] Our History. Discovery Communications. Retrieved: November 29th 2016.

[3] Investor Relations. Discovery Communications. Retrieved: November 29th 2016.

[4] TLC Logo. Google Images. Retrieved: November 29th 2016.

[5] Animal Planet Logo. Google Images. Retrieved: November 29th 2016.

[6] Science Channel Logo. Google Images. Retrieved: November 29th 2016.

[7] Turbo Logo. Google Images. Retrieved: November 29th 2016.

[8] Velocity Logo. Google Images. Retrieved: November 29th 2016.

[9] Discovery Education Logo. Google Images. Retrieved: November 29th 2016.

[10] Investigation Discovery Logo. Google Images. Retrieved: November 29th 2016.

[11] OWN:Oprah Winfery Network Logo. Google Images. Retrieved: November 29th 2016.

[12] Eurosport Logo. Google Images. Retrieved: November 29th 2016.

[13] Leadership. Discovery Communications. Retrieved: November 29th 2016.

[14] Key Executives. Yahoo Finance. Retrieved: November 29th 2016.

[15] Summary. Yahoo Finance. Retrieved: November 29th 2016.

[16] 2 Year Overview of Stock Price for DSCA. Yahoo Finance. Retrieved: November 29th 2016.

[17] 2015 Annual Report. Discovery Communications. Retrieved: November 29th 2016.

[18] Our History. Discovery Communications. Retrieved: November 29th 2016.

[19] Associated Press (April 2nd 1991). THE MEDIA BUSINESS; Discovery to Buy a Channel. The New York Times. Retrieved: November 29th 2016.

[20] Our History. Discovery Communications. Retrieved: November 29th 2016.

[21] Discovery to combine stakes in Discovery Communications with Advance/Newhouse (December 13th 2007). CNNMoney. Retrieved: November 29th 2016.

[22] Our History. Discovery Communications. Retrieved: November 29th 2016.

[23] Businesses & Brands. Discovery Communications. Retrieved: November 29th 2016.

[24] Jarvey, Natalie (April 2nd 2014). Brain Grazer, Ron Howard Launch ‘New Form’ Digital Studio With Discovery. The Hollywood Reporter. Retrieved: November 29th 2016.

[25] Newsroom. Discovery Communications. Retrieved: November 29th 2016.

[26] James, Meg and Faughnder, Ryan (November 10th 2015). Lionsgate sells 6.8% stake to John Malone’s Liberty Global and Discovery. Los Angeles Times. Retrieved: November 29th 2016.

[27] Briel, Robert (August 2nd 2016). Liberty Global and Discovery sign 12-market carriage deal. Broadband YV News. Retrieved: November 29th 2016.

[28] Dickens, Andrew (March 8th 2016). Eurosport serves Wimbledon further. C21Media. Retrieved: November 29th 2016.

[29] Paul, Jonathan (October 19th 2016). Discovery, WWF partner for Project C.A.T. Realscreen. Retrieved: November 29th 2016.

[30] Project C.A.T. Logo. Google Images. Retrieved: November 29th 2016.

[31] Press Release (June 29th 2015). IOC AWAEDS ALL TV AND MULTIPLATFORM BROADCAST RIGHTS IN EUROPE TO DISCOVERY AND EUROSPORT FOR 2018-2024 OLYMPIC GAMES. Olympics. Retrieved: November 29th 2016.

[32] BBC and Discovery Communications sign long-term Olympics Games partnership (February 2nd 2016). BBC. Retrieved: November 29th 2016.

[33] International Olympic committee Awards All TV and Multiplatform Broadcast Rights in Europe to Discovery and Eurosport for 2018-2024 Olympic Games. Google Images. Retrieved: November 29th 2016.

[34] International Olympic committee Awards All TV and Multiplatform Broadcast Rights in Europe to Discovery and Eurosport for 2018-2024 Olympic Games. Google Images. Retrieved: November 29th 2016.

[35] Newsroom. Discovery Communications. Retrieved: November 29th 2016.

Discovery Communications, Inc.

Posted on by 
By Alisa Sokolova

 

Discovery Communications' logo

[1] Discovery Communications’ log

Discovery Communications, Inc
One Discovery Place
Silver Spring, MD 20910
240-662-2000
http://corporate.discovery.com/

 

Background and History:

Discovery Communications, Inc (DCI) is an international mass media entertainment company. Based in Maryland, U.S., it manages 150 television networks and 33 worldwide channels (both satellite and cable) [2]. DCI operates in 220 countries, broadcasting in 45 different languages and reaching three billion viewers a week [3]. DCI both produces its оriginаl content, which is primarily non-fiction, and аcquires some programming from producers worldwide [4]. The company also produces and distributes educational products and school services, such as digital textbooks [5].

Discovery GO's logo. The streaming app introduced on December 2nd 2015.

Discovery GO’s logo. The new streaming app introduced on December 2nd, 2015 [13].

DCI was initially established by John Hendricks in 1985 as a single  Discovery Channel [6]. During the 1990’s the company developed additional networks, including Discovery Kids, Animal Planet and Discovery Travel [7]. In 1995, Discovery Communications  launched its first website Discovery Channel [8]. Today, the company’s online streaming is estimated to get 400 million hits monthly [9]. Most of the shows are also available on Netflix, iTunes, YouTube, and Revisob3.com. [10] [11]. On December 2nd 2015, DCI became part of TV Everywhere business model, by launching its new streaming app – Discovery GO. The app, mostly available to the pay TV subscribers only, allows viewers to access the content of DCI’s networks from any device [12].

Key Executives: 

David Zaslav - President and CEO of Discovery Communications

[14] David Zaslav – President and CEO of Discovery Communications

Jean-Briac (JB) Perrette - President Discovery Network International

[15] Jean-Briac (JB) Perrette – President Discovery Network International

Andrew Warren - Chief Financial Officer and Senior Vice President

[16] Andrew Warren – Chief Financial Officer and Senior Vice President

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

International Expansion in Fall 2015:

DCI exemplifies the successful international company with over 300 million international subscribers [17]. With new head of Discovery Networks International Programming and Operations, Darcy Tomlin (appointed in October), this season has been especially contributive to DCI’s overseas growth [18].

DCI's executives hosting the show gathered for the finale.

DCI’s executives hosting the show gathered for the finale [59].

This fall DCI organized many promotional events abroad [19]. For example, DCI’s networks CEEMEA (Central & Eastern Europe, Middle East) hosted an exclusive event in Johannesburg on November 18th [20]. The company presented its major projects coming up in 2016 to it’s 200+ event attendees [21]. Among the introduced projects were Discovery Chanel’s “Sherpa,”  Animal Planet’s “The Lion Queen” and TLC’s “Belief.” The event, hosted by DCI’s executives, was marked by the performances of Discovery stars, such as Andi Rive (“The Lion Queen”), Whitney Thore (“My Big Fat Fabulous Life”) and magician Troy (“Troy”) [22].

Eurosport's logo

Eurosport’s logo [30]

DCI has been strengthening its presence not only in African, but also in European markets. This fall was the first season of DCI’s full ownership of Eurosport International – one of the largest European sport-entertainment networks, which was recently acquired by DCI from TF1 [23]. The purchase is especially important as Eurosport  won the multi-platform rights for broadcasting the Olympic Games from 2018 to 2024 [24].

In September, DIC also signed a partnership agreement with Russian Media Group, forming Media Alliance and securing Discovery’s presence in the local market [25]. (So far there are 11 DCI channels available in the country [26].) Media Alliance will launch a development of a new regional free-to-air channel and distribute the Discovery and Eurosport pay TV portfolio. In the Russian market, Discovery Channel, TLC, and Animal Planet are the lеаders in nonfiction content, while Eurosport is the primary pay TV spоrt-related chаnnel [27].

International expansion allows DCI to maintain growth despite a recent decline in the US market [28].  Last year, international markets brought the company 55% of its overall revenues, while this number is projected to reach 65% by 2018 [29]. Therefore, more international deals and promotional events are expected in the future.

Fall 2015 Releases:

“Exorcism: Live!”

On October 30th, DCI’s Destination America featured its Halloween-special “Exorcism: Live!”– a two-hour broadcast during which a team of so-called “paranormal professionals” tried to purify a supposedly “possessed” house in St. Louis [31]. The show is closely related to “The Exorcist” book by William Peter Blatty: “Exorcism: Live!” took place in the house where the exorcism was performed, in 1949, which inspired “The Exorcist” novel [32]. According to producer Jodi Tovay, the main event wasn’t about saving a possessed person, but rather about an attempt to cleanse evil from the house itself in a ritual Tovay referred as “a hybrid of an exorcism and a blessing” [33]. Audiences had a chance to actively participate in the event by following several live cameras put around the house  online. Producers encouraged viewers to assist the exorcism team and report mysterious activity through Twitter, using the #exorcismlife hashtag [34]. Selected tweets appeared live on air [35]. As a result, “Exorcism: Live!” became the #1 non-football live event on cable in October [36]. For the target audience P25-54, the show gained a 0.59 for L+3 ratings compared to its competitors’ A&E’s 0.34 and National Geographic’s 0.19. The show was also the #1 most mentioned event on Twitter on October 30th, generating 29 thousand tweets [37].

Official trailer of “Exorcism: Live!” [38]

“Lost & Found.”

Lost & Found advertising on Facebook

Lost & Found advertising on Facebook [57]

On November 11th, Discovery Family Channel featured a premier of its strongly anticipated “Lost & Found.” [39] In this reality show, produced by Leftfield Pictures, a team of “professional finders” helps people to find someone they have wanted to thank for a long time (for instance, middle school teachers, old friends, and lost relatives) [40]. “Lost & Found” is a fragment of Discovery Family Channel’s “Project Thank You,” which is a multiplatform campaign to bring people together to say thanks [41]. Throughout all of November, the channel is featuring gratitude-centered programming, vignettes and online campaigns [42].

Financials:

DCI is a рublic соmpаny, trading in NASDAQ stock market [43]. Its most recent stock price (as of November 27th) of $31.08 per share reflects the company’s positive tendency over the last three months [44]. During the third quarter this year, DCI’s revenues decreased 1% (from $1,573 million in the Q3 of 2014 to $1,557 million in Q3 of 2015) [45]. The decrease, however, is caused by currency effects, without which the company would gain 8% more revenue in comparison with last year [46]. The biggest sources of revenue were domestic advertising and distribution [47]. The revenues coming from both of these sources have increased by 5% in advertising (from $388 million in 2014 to $410 in 2015) and by 11% in distribution (from $318 million in 2014 to $357 million in 2015 )[48]. This September, Discovery hosted its first ever Investor Day in NYC, which attracted 300 attendees, including investors, financial analysts and industry journalists [49]. During the event, DCI’s CEO David Zaslav announced the plans for long-term international and domestic development and revealed that DCI wоuld rеаch thrее billiоn subsсribеrs by the end of 2015 [50].

Discovery Communication's NASDAQ stock price

Positive tendency of Discovery Communication’s
NASDAQ stock price [58]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Projections for Discovery Communications

Louie Psihoyos' quote about “Racing Extinction.”

The quote of the director of Racing Extinction  Louie Psihoyos [50].

 There are several trends in DCI’s future: international expansion, high involvement with the Olympic Games through Eurosport, increase of subscribers and most importantly a transition from entertainment to more documentary-oriented content [51]. Over the past years, there has been a lot of criticism of Discovery’s pseudo-scientific shows, such as “Shark Week” [52]. However, it’s soon to be changed. John Hoffman, appointed this year as a head of Discovery Channel, has promised to bring more factual and scientifically accurate programming [53]. In fact, the impact of this transition is already in the air. This fall season has already increased the expanding list of DCI’s documentaries by the newly-released shows such as “Marooned,”  “Nuremberg: Nazi Judgment Day” and “Melting: Last Race to the Pole” [54]. Furthermore, on December 2nd, Discovery is releasing its highly anticipated “Racing Extinction” [55] This documentary, directed by Academy Award winner Louie Psihoyos, portrays an ecosphere of endangered species and the activists’ efforts to save them [56]. Therefore, there is firm evidence that DCI will remain a major educational entertainment network appealing to large ranges of audiences all over the world.

Sources:

[1] Discovery Communications’ Logo. Retrieved 25 November, 2015. http://logok.org/discovery-channel-logo/

[2] Discovery Communications, Inc. – Company Profile, Information, Business Description, History, Background Information on Discovery Communications. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. http://www.referenceforbusiness.com/history2/74/Discovery-Communications-Inc.html

[3] Discovery Networks International. Retrieved 28, November 2015. https://www.linkedin.com/company/discovery-communications-international-division

[4] Discovery Communications, Inc. – Company Profile, Information, Business Description, History, Background Information on Discovery Communications, Inc. Retrieved 28, November 2015. http://www.referenceforbusiness.com/history2/74/Discovery-Communications-Inc.html

[5] Discovery Communications. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. http://research.omicsgroup.org/index.php/Discovery_Communications

[6] John Hendricks: How He Built The Discovery Channel From Scratch. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. http://www.forbes.com/sites/danschawbel/2013/12/29/john-hendricks-how-he-built-the-discovery-channel-from-scratch/

[7] Discovery Through Decades. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. http://30yearsofdiscovery.com

[8] Discovery Communications, Inc. – Company Profile, Information, Business Description, History, Background Information on Discovery Communications, Inc. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. http://www.referenceforbusiness.com/history2/74/Discovery-Communications-Inc.html

[9] DCI Annual Report 2014. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. https://corporate.discovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/disca2014_download.pdf

[10] Discovery Digital networks.  Retrieved 28 November, 2015. http://discoverydn.com/about

[11] Search Results for Discovery Channel. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. http://dvd.netflix.com/Search?v1=discovery%20channel

[12] Discovery Communications Launches new TV Everywhere Platform. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. http://www.cynopsis.com/story/discovery-communications-launches-new-tv-everywhere-platform/

[13] Discovery Introduces App For TV Everywhere Streaming: Discovery Go.Retrieved 27 November 2015. http://deadline.com/2015/12/discovery-go-tv-everywhere-streaming-app-1201648066/

[14] Davis Zaslav. Retrieved 27 November 2015. https://corporate.discovery.com/our-company/leadership/

[15] Jean-Briac Perrette. Retrieved 27 November 2015. https://corporate.discovery.com/our-company/leadership/

[16] Andrew Warren. Retrieved 27 November 2015.https://corporate.discovery.com/our-company/leadership/

[17] DCI Annual Report 2014. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. https://corporate.discovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/disca2014_download.pdf

[18] Velocity’s Darcy Tomlin Segues To Discovery’s Intl Content Group In VP Role.Retrieved 28 November, 2015.http://deadline.com/2015/10/darcy-tomlin-named-discovery-networks-intl-vp-programming-operations-1201581144/

[19] Discovery newsroom. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. https://corporate.discovery.com/discovery-newsroom/

[20] Discovery Networks CEEMEA Hosts 2016 Upfront Presentation in Johannesburg. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. https://corporate.discovery.com/tag/first-heartbeat/

[21] Discovery Networks CEEMEA Hosts 2016 Upfront Presentation in Johannesburg. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. https://corporate.discovery.com/tag/first-heartbeat/

[22] Discovery Networks CEEMEA Hosts 2016 Upfront Presentation in Johannesburg. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. https://corporate.discovery.com/tag/first-heartbeat/

[23] Discovery Communications agrees To Take Full Control of Eurosport. Retrieved 28 November, 2015.https://corporate.discovery.com/discovery-newsroom/discovery-communications-agrees-to-take-full-control-of-eurosport/

[24] IOC awards all TV and multiplatform broadcast rights in Europe to Discovery and Eurosport for 2018-2024 Olympic Games. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. http://www.olympic.org/news/ioc-awards-all-tv-and-multiplatform-broadcast-rights-in-europe-to-discovery-and-eurosport-for-2018-2024-olympic-games/246462

 [25]  Discovery to Stay in Russia with National Media Group Deal. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. http://variety.com/2015/tv/global/discovery-to-stay-in-russia-with-national-media-group-deal-1201579590/

[26] Russian Government Approves Discovery’s Joint Venture With National Media Group. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/russian-government-approves-discoverys-joint-829832

[27] Discovery to Stay in Russia with National Media Group Deal. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. http://variety.com/2015/tv/global/discovery-to-stay-in-russia-with-national-media-group-deal-1201579590/

[28] Discovery finds rapid growth in international expansion. Retrieved 28 November, 2015.https://technology.ihs.com/551573/discovery-finds-rapid-growth-in-international-expansion

[29] Discovery finds rapid growth in international expansion. Retrieved 28 November, 2015.https://technology.ihs.com/551573/discovery-finds-rapid-growth-in-international-expansion

[30] Eurosport. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. http://www.eurosport.com

[31]  TV Review: ‘Exorcism: Live! Retrieved 28 November, 2015. http://variety.com/2015/tv/reviews/exorcism-live-review-destination-america-the-exorcist-house-1201629070/

[32] Halloween Scares Up Televised Live ‘Exorcism.‘Retrieved 28 November, 2015. http://news.discovery.com/history/religion/halloween-scares-up-televised-live-exorcism-151028.htm

[33] Exorcism: Live! Creator on Cleansing House That Inspired The Exorcist: ‘It Is Not a Hoax.’ Retrieved 28 November, 2015. http://www.people.com/article/exorcism-live-sneak-peek-interview

[34] History or Exorcism House. Retrieved 28 November, 2015.http://www.destinationamerica.com/tv-shows/exorcism-live-countdown/exorcism-live-the-history/

[35] Discovery newsroom. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. https://corporate.discovery.com/discovery-newsroom/

[36] Exorcism: Live! Possesses Top Ratings Spot for Live Cable Event in October. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. https://corporate.discovery.com/discovery-newsroom/exorcism-live-possesses-top-ratings-spot-for-live-cable-event-in-october/

[37] Exorcism: Live! Possesses Top Ratings Spot for Live Cable Event in October. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. https://corporate.discovery.com/discovery-newsroom/exorcism-live-possesses-top-ratings-spot-for-live-cable-event-in-october/

[38] Don’t Miss Exorcism: LIVE! Retrieved 28 November, 2015 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L1UKWPkkwHo

 [39] Project Thank You. Retrieved 28 November, 2015 http://www.multichannel.com/prfeed/november-discovery-family-channel-s-project-thank-you-encourages-and-empowers-viewers-have-attitude-gratitude/393778

 [39] Project Thank You. Retrieved 28 November, 2015 http://www.multichannel.com/prfeed/november-discovery-family-channel-s-project-thank-you-encourages-and-empowers-viewers-have-attitude-gratitude/393778

[40] Discovery Family Channel Reunites Grateful Owners With Meaningful Mementos In Heartwarming New Series, Lost And Found.  Retrieved 28 November, 2015. https://corporate.discovery.com/discovery-newsroom/discovery-family-channel-reunites-grateful-owners-with-meaningful-mementos-in-heartwarming-new-series-lost-and-found-wt/

[41] Discovery Family Channel And VolunteerMatch Empower Families To Give Back In Their Local Communities. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/discovery-family-channel-and-volunteermatch-empower-families-to-give-back-in-their-local-communities-300158796.html

[42] This November, Discovery Family Channel’s Project Thank You Encourages and Empowers Viewers to Have an Attitude of Gratitude. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. https://corporate.discovery.com/discovery-newsroom/this-november-discovery-family-channels-project-thank-you-encourages-and-empowers-viewers-to-have-an-attitude-of-gratitude/

[43] Discovery Communications Inc. Series A.  Retrieved 28 November, 2015 http://quotes.wsj.com/DISCA/company-people

 [44] Discovery Communications, Inc. Stock Quote & Summary Data. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. http://www.nasdaq.com/symbol/disca

[45] Discovery Investors relations, Quarterly Reports. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=222412&p=irol-reportsOther

[46] Discovery Investors relations, Quarterly Reports. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=222412&p=irol-reportsOther

[47] Discovery Investors relations, Quarterly Reports. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=222412&p=irol-reportsOther

[48] Discovery Investors relations, Quarterly Reports. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=222412&p=irol-reportsOther

[49] Discovery Communications Details Plans For Long-Term Growth at Investor Day. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. http://ir.corporate.discovery.com/mobile.view?c=222412&v=203&d=1&id=2091481

[50] Discovery Communications Details Plans For Long-Term Growth at Investor Day. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. http://ir.corporate.discovery.com/mobile.view?c=222412&v=203&d=1&id=2091481

[51] Brand Value: TV Content Providers Have Their Say. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. http://www.broadbandtvnews.com/2015/11/26/brand-value-tv-content-providers-have-their-say/

[52] Fraud, Deception And Lies: How Discovery’s Shark Week Became The Greatest Show On Earth. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. http://blogs.discovermagazine.com/science-sushi/2014/07/18/fraud-deception-lies-discoverys-shark-week-became-greatest-show-earth/#.Vl9604RX-UV

[53] Discovery Channel Is Finally Breaking Up With Bad Science. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. http://www.motherjones.com/media/2015/11/racing-extinction-climate-change-discovery-john-hoffman

[54] Discovery newsroom. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. https://corporate.discovery.com/discovery-newsroom/

[55] Racing Extinction. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. http://racingextinction.com

[56] Discovery Channel Is Finally Breaking Up With Bad Science. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. http://www.motherjones.com/media/2015/11/racing-extinction-climate-change-discovery-john-hoffman

[57] Family Channel Facebook page. Retrieved 28 November, 2015.https://www.facebook.com/DiscFamily/photos/a.155347071181050.33326.119249468124144/898567963525620/?type=3&theater

[58] Discovery Communications, Inc. Stock Quote & Summary Data. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. http://www.nasdaq.com/symbol/disca

[59] Discovery Networks CEEMEA Hosts 2016 Upfront Presentation in Johannesburg. Retrieved 28 November, 2015. https://corporate.discovery.com/tag/ceemea/

Discovery Communications

Posted on by 
by Brendan Germain

Discovery Logo [1]

One Discovery Place Silver Spring, MD 20910 — 240.662.2000

“Discovery is dedicated to satisfying curiosity, engaging and entertaining viewers with high-quality content on worldwide television networks…” [2] 

COMPANY PROFILE

As the number one pay-TV programmer and non-fiction media company, Discovery Communications paves the way for cross platform content appealing to 2.7 billion subscribers across 150 cable networks in over 220 countries. Discovery’s commitment to innovation and segmenting audiences has earned it its place as a leader in targeted media programming headed by Discovery Channel, operating also the Animal Planet, Hub Network and a joint venture with the OWN network among others. The company’s online and media services work in conjunction with its cable programming and have made Discovery a true multi-media, synergistic company.

KEY EXECUTIVES

David Zaslav- President and CEO [4]

Andrew Warren-Senior Executive VP and CFO [5]

Marjorie Kaplan- Group President Discovery Channel [6]

HISTORY

John Hendricks, a West Virginia bred, University of Alabama grad, founded the Cable Educational Network in Maryland back in 1982. Discovery Communications would soon grow from the launch of the Discovery Channel in1985. By 1988 the cable programmer had amassed over 32 million subscribers and by 1991, after acquiring The Learning

Discovery Logo-1988

Discovery Logo-1988 [9]

Channel (TLC) and launching Discovery in Europe, the company changed its name to Discovery Communications. Over the next 10 years, the company would see considerable international growth in Asian, African and Middle Eastern markets and soon launched a $10 million news site distributing original news content on its Discovery homepage [7]. In 2004 Hendricks stepped down as CEO passing it off to current position holder David Zaslav and this past May, Hendricks retired as Chairman, leaving the company he had built over the past 35 years with a drive towards the environment, education and technological advances. [8] 

FINANCES

This past quarter, coming in early November, saw a 14% increase for Discovery Communications (DISCA) on the NASDAQ year-over-year (YOY), with revenue at $1.57 billion [10].

DISCA’s Yearly Stock Price as of December 1, 2014  CLICK TO VIEW CURRENT CHART [12]

The publicly traded conglomerate has been on a rise in stock price, ending around $34 dollars recently with around 148 million shares outstanding. Since 2010, DISCA has been on a mass buyback movement to repurchase in excess of 25% of its stocks to consolidate its outstanding shares, giving the company more control over its numerous domestic and international platforms [11]. The company is segmented into three areas of revenue–Domestic, International, and Education, the first two being programming and education being products and services. Revenue for the domestic programming has seen minimal drops of 1% YOY as advertising budgets for the company have raised 3%, while the international segment as seen rises as high as 34% in revenue, in direct relation with Discovery’s acquisition of Eurosport [13]. Discovery is projected to reach a total revenue between $6.3 billion and $6.35 billion for this 2014 fiscal year.

 ACQUISITION OF EUROSPORT

Staking its claim as the #1 Pay-TV programmer for educational, niche content across its over 200 networks domestically and internationally, Discovery has taken a turn towards broadcast and  sports media sphere with its spring

Eurosport Logo [15]

Eurosport Logo [15]

acquisition of Eurosport. Eurosport, the premier sports media group in Europe, is valued at $1.2 billion and reaches over 133 million homes. TF1, the French media conglomerate had previously owned 80% of the company before Discovery pushed to expedite the deal which had been set for 2015, though TF1 will holds its stake in the sports media group until the end of the year. [14].

[Click here to view Eurosport’s promo stinger]

Discovery acquired 51% of the company, with TF1 being the only other owner holding the remaining 49%. DISCA is looking to capitalize on the fragmented nature of the sports broadcast industry over in Europe, a step in a different direction from their pay-TV and cable roots, in hopes of building up Eurosport to the status of Europe’s version of ESPN [16].

"Eurosport is a perfect strategic fit for growing market share, strengthening relationships with advertisers and affiliates, and bringing ‘must have’ content to passionate viewers across the globe...” [17] 
      -Discovery CEO David Zaslav-

There are talks already about the possibility of Discovery buying out TF1, giving DISCA full ownership of Eurosport, in turn adding six new pay-TV brands to Discovery’s arsenal.

 DISCOVERY CHANNEL

The network that started it all, Discovery Channel (formerly The Discovery Channel), excels at non-fiction programming reaching over 100 million homes in the U.S. and over three times that amount internationally. Launched in 1985, Discovery Channel produces science, nature, adventure and history geared television, among other genres, and has revved up its live-streamed programming over the past few years [18]. In June 2013, Discovery aired a live program special with adventure enthusiast Nik Wallenda traversing the Grand Canyon on a tightrope [19]. The record breaking broadcast event amassed over 13 million viewers, Discovery’s highest-rated live event, with an additional 1.3 million trending Tweets about the stunt, awarding DISCA an Interactive Emmy for Multi-platform storytelling. Discovery Channel followed Wallenda again earlier this month in his tightrope walk between two Chicago skyscrapers at a 15-degree angle, aptly titled SKYSCRAPER LIVE WITH NIK WALLENDA.

Play to view highlights of Nik Wallenda's SKYSCRAPER LIVE walk [21]

Though not drawing the magnitude of coverage as his Grand Canyon walk, this live event in addition to others showcase Discovery’s risky intent to air content to attract an audience, stunts so daring that someone could die [20]. Understanding this, Wallenda carried a $20 million public liability insurance claim, should anything catastrophic have happened. The tightrope walk was a success and coming this May, Discovery Channel intends to air live footage of expert climber Joby Ogwyn’s Mount

SURVIVAL LIVE Logo [24]

SURVIVAL LIVE Logo [24]

Everest jump in a winged suit, titled EVEREST JUMP LIVE, hooking up eight cameras to his suit to get full 360 degree coverage [22]. In addition, the network is continuing on its multi-platform successes with a new, interactive program called SURVIVAL LIVE, a 42-day survivalist event pitting 8 strangers against each other in the remote wilderness [23].The cross-platform media gives viewers the ability to track survivalists biometric, medical statistics during the 24 hour live-streamed event as well as the option to donate needed supplies or help online. Moving to attract a growing, interactive audience, Discovery is prompting new growth in cross-media programming and their push for high adrenaline, live-streamed events sets them apart from other cable networks.

 DISCOVERY FAMILY CHANNEL

Since being renamed this past October, Discovery Family, formerly The Hub Network, DISCA’s children geared daytime programming network, has broadened its program offerings in a strengthened partnership between Discovery Communications and Hasbro,

Hasbro, Inc. Logo [25]

Hasbro, Inc. Logo [25]

Inc. The Hasbro Studios have published upfronts intending to move into primetime television timeslots [26]. With Discovery owning 60% in this joint venture, Discovery Family is projected to have over 70 million U.S. homes tuning in to programs and the two look to move into nightly family targeted programming. The two corporations will both capitalize on producing branded content, marketable to advertisers, and accessible for both children and families [27].

UP AND COMING

Discovery has recently paired up with Sony Entertainment Network to bring channels from DISCA to Play Station Vue, Sony’s cloud-based, internet television service [28]. Sony’s subsidary, Sony Network Entertainment International (SNEI), will offer the subscription based service to current users of a PS3 or PS4 come early 2015, totally over 35 million users. The deal will bring Discovery’s 13 U.S. networks to users, in addition to next-gen services like Discovery Digitial Networks [29].

Theorized PlayStation Vue Format [15]

Theorized PlayStation Vue Screen [30]

This is new territory for Discovery, a cloud streaming service, and whether or not users will be willing to pay for the subscription fees is up for debate. Prices per month have yet to be set, though the service brings DISCA’s historically cable programming to an internet based provider follows the path Discovery Communications is walking in becoming a more cross-media driven media group and high-level television programmer.

  SOURCES

[1]Discovery Logo corporate.discovery.com RT: 11/18/14

[2] Corporate Mission corporate.discovery.com RT: 11/18/14

[3] Company Profile Information biz.yahoo.com RT:11/18/14

[4] David Zaslav Image corporate.discovery.com RT: 11/18/14

[5] Andrew Warren Image corporate.discovery.com RT: 11/18/14

[6] Marjorie Kaplan Image corporate.discovery.com RT: 11/18/14

[7] Discovery History referenceforbusiness.com RT: 11/18/14

[8] Hendricks Leaves Discovery variety.com RT: 11/18/14

[9] Discovery Logo 1988 logos.wikia.com RT: 11/24/14

[10] DISCA Annual Finances finance.yahoo.com RT: 11/24/14

[11] DISCA Quarterly Report corporate.discovery.com RT: 11/24/14

[12] DISCA Yearly Stock Chart finance.yahoo.com RT: 11/27/14

[13] Discovery Segments/Projections zacks.com RT: 12/1/14

[14] Discovery Acquires Eurosport nytimes.com RT: 11/28/14

[15] Eurosport Logo eurosport.com RT: 11/28/14

[16] Discovery Moves to Broadcast corporate.discovery.com RT: 11/28/14

[17] David Zaslav Quote corporate.discovery.com RT: 11/29/14

[18] Discovery Channel Profile corporate.discovery.com RT:11/29/14

[19] Discovery Live Streams press.discovery.com RT: 11/29/14

[20] Risk of Live Events nytimes.com RT: 11/29/14

[21] SKYSCRAPER LIVE Highlights Footage youtube.com RT: 11/29/14

[22] Everest Jump Live deadline.com RT: 11/29/14

[23] SURVIVAL LIVE press.discovery.com RT: 11/29/14

[24] SURVIVAL LIVE Logo adage.com RT: 11/29/14

[25] Hasbro, Inc Logo hasbro.com RT: 11/30/14

[26] Hasbro, Inc Partnership investor.hasbro.com RT: 11/30/14

[27] Discovery Family Deal corporate.discovery.com RT: 11/30/14

[28] PlayStation Vue Contract polygon.com RT: 12/1/14

[29] Discovery/Vue Offerings corporate.discovery.com RT:12/1/14

[30] PlayStation Vue Screen polygon.com RT: 12/1/14

Continue reading →

Discovery Communications

Posted on by 
By Parker Davis
Discovery_Communications_Logo

Discovery Communications Logo- image courtesy of givingtuesday.org

Overview [1] [2]

TLC Logo- image courtesy of businessinsider.com

John Hendricks originally founded Discovery Communications under the name Appalachian Community Service Network in 1982. The first station launched was The Learning Channel, an educational station for youths and adults alike. When the company changed its name to Discovery Communications in 1985, other education based channels were established such as the Discovery Channel and the first 24/7 HD basic cable channel, Discovery HD, currently known as Velocity [1]. Today, Discovery Communications is the world’s #1 subscription based television network, reaching over 2 billion subscribers in 220 countries. They own over 200 television stations including: the Science Channel, Animal Planet, and OWN. Outside of television, Discovery Communications is also a large publisher of educational books and operates online media channels such as Revision3 and howstuffworks.com [2].

Executives [3]

John S. Hendricks- image courtesy of corporate.discovery.com

 

 

John S. Hendricks: Founder and Chairman Discovery Communications

 

 

David M. Zaslav- image courtesy of corporate.discovery.com

 

 

David M. Zaslav: President and CEO Discovery Communications

 

 

Jean Briac Perette- image courtesy of corporate.discovery.com

 

 

Jean Briac (JB) Perette: President Discovery Networks International

 

 

 

 

Financials [4] [5] [6] [7] [8]

Discovery Communications is publicly traded under three stock series: DISCA, DISCB, and DISCK. Each ticker symbol translates to series A, B, and C stock. The newer issuances indicate a new corporate milestone, thus returning a higher company valuation number, resulting in a higher IPO for the new distribution of shares. DISCA contains the most shareholders. Within the previous three months, DISCA prices ranged from $76.80 to $85.97. Currently, it is recovering from its lowest point in the period, occurring April 15, 2014, and slowly increased 1.7% to $77.83 on April 18 [4].

Comparison of DISCA, DISCB, DISCK over a three month period- courtesy bloomberg.com

Comparison of DISCA, DISCB, DISCK- image courtesy of bloomberg.com

In the Annual Financial Statement for 2013, total revenue equated to $5.54 billion. A 19% increase over 2012, which generated $4.49 billion, a mere 8% increase over 2011 [5]. This growth is credited in their recent “acquisition of the majority stake in Eurosport International will drive international to contributing more than 50 percent of total company revenue” [6]. Discovery Communications possesses only 1% of total market share, competing alongside other media conglomerates such as: A&E, NBCUniversal, and Viacom [7] [8].

Retirement and the Curiosity Project [9] [10] [11] [12] [13] [14]

John S. Hendricks- image courtesy of curiosityretreats.com

Discovery founder and chairman, John Hendricks, officially announced his retirement in March. He will formally resign during the annual shareholder’s meeting on May 16; however, he has not released who will take his place as chairman. Although, sources speculate that current CEO, David Zaslav, may be a potential candidate for the position [9]. In his retirement letter to the board of directors, Hendricks explained that he will “spend the next few years traveling the planet and discovering the questions and mysteries that intrigue us all.” He will also use the opportunity to expand his new business, Curiosity Project LLC, announced February 10 of this year [10].

The mission of Curiosity Retreats is to create a unique forum where the lifelong curious can gather to explore in-depth the great questions of today. [11]

Curiosity Video Overview (Vimeo)

One currently operational aspect of the project is retreats for inspirational and open- minded thinkers alike. The retreats are five nights long at the Gateway Canyons resort in Colorado, including a panel of 8 different experts in the field of: science, technology, civilization, and human spirit [12]. The purpose of the retreat is to enlighten already intellectual minds and expand their imagination by collaborating and with others.

Gateway Canyons- image courtesy of multivu.com

The new aspect of Hendricks’ venture is video on demand. His plan is to compile recordings of the experts from the retreats and publish their talks online for an annual fee of $19.99. However, this venture may prove impractical because there are already free services similar to his found in university publications and intellectual websites, such as TED [13].

Hendricks founded Discovery in 1982 and stepped down as CEO in 2004 and began his role as chairman on the board of directors. He was with the company for 32 years [14].

Eurosport [15] [16] [17]

Eurosport Logo- image courtesy of 3.bp.blogspot.com

Discovery Communications is expanding its international affiliations by moving into the televised sports market. On January 21, Discovery purchased controlling share (51%) in Eurosport for $1.2 billion [15]. Since April 2013, Discovery owned 20% stake in the station. The extension was made in a monetary agreement with TF1, a French television network and previous majority owner of Eurosport. The purpose of Discovery’s equity increase is to compete with British Sky Broadcasting and BT, a UK cable provider, for exclusive Premier League television rights [16]. Discovery chose to expand its control over sporting networks so it can combine its international sports rights with its US based stations to avoid competing head on with domestic sporting networks. The new international acquisitions expand Discovery’s network portfolio, thus inflating revenue and control over the total media market [17].

DogTV [18] [19] [20]

DogTV Logo- image courtesy of dogtv.com

Discovery Communications has recently purchased an unspecified percentage of DogTV: a 2 year old network that targets the dog owner demographic and airs content specifically for pet entertainment. The station is distributed through DirecTV and has a subscription fee of $5 for television viewing and $10 for online streaming [17]. Current programming on the network includes 3-6 minute clips focused on a dog’s relaxation, stimulation, and exposure. Discovery Communications has developed a strategic partnership with DogTV, jointly creating similar programming for Animal Planet while spreading the reach of the network to other countries. This tactic by Discovery can be seen as a gamble to invest in television for dogs, however, over 43.3 million US households own at least one dog, collectively spending over $55.8 billion annually on pet products, and over half of which claim their dogs show interest in what occurs on television [18]. The channel is designed to relieve the stress and anxiety of stay at home pets [19].

DogTV in The News (YouTube)

New Form [21] [22] [23]

Left to Right: Ron Howard, Brian Grazer, David Zaslav- image courtesy variety.com

Discovery has co-founded and launched a new digital media site, New Form, alongside producers Ron Howard and Brian Grazer [21]. The purpose of the studio is to infiltrate the scripted media market, whereas Discovery contains mainly non-fiction and reality based content. In the startup, the firm appointed Kathleen Grace, former Head of Creative Development for YouTube Space LA, as the Chief Creative Officer for New Form [22]. The videos created will be used in conjunction with current Discovery Digital Networks rather than creating a new site from the ground up. The venture was also announced the same week as Discovery’s upfront presentations to entice advertisers about the concept. Today, media advertisers divide their capital between television and online mediums, serving as a potentially dramatic advertisement revenue increase for Discovery.  Zaslav is making the push for Discovery to move into the Internet realm to make their channels easily accessible on all platforms for anyone to use [23].

Interview with David Zaslav and Ron Howard on New Form (Bloomberg)

Works Cited:

[1] Discovery Communications Founder John Hendricks to Retire as Chairman of Company’s Board. Discovery Communications. March 20, 2014. RT: April 13, 2014.

[2] Overview & Mission. Discovery Communications. RT: April 13, 2014.

[3] Leadership. Discovery Communications. RT: April 13, 2014.

[4] Google Finance Data. Google. RT: April 15, 2014.

[5] 2013 Annual Report. Discovery Communications. RT: April 15, 2014.

[6] Discovery CEO touts International Growth, Outlook. The Hollywood Reporter. Georg Szalai. April 3, 2014. RT: April 15, 2014.

[7] Introduction to the Entertainment & Media Industry. Plunkett Research, Ltd. RT: April 15, 2014. Used to calculate total market share.

[8] Top Competitors for Discovery Communications, Inc.. Hoovers. RT: April 15, 2014

[9] Discovery Communications Chairman John Hendricks stepping down. Los Angeles Times. Joe Flint. March, 20 2014. RT: April 17, 2014.

[10] John Hendricks Retirement Letter. John S. Hendricks. March 20, 2014. RT: April 17, 2014.

[11] Curiosity Mission Statement. Curiosity Retreats. RT: April 17, 2014.

[12] Curiosity About Page. Curiosity Retreats. RT: April 17, 2014.

[13] Discovery chairman John Hendricks to step down to pursue lifelong learning academy. Washington Post. Dan Beyers. March 23, 2014. RT: April 17, 2014.

[14] Cable Pioneer John Hendricks to Retire From Discovery Communications. Variety. Cynthia Littleton. March 20, 2014. RT: April 17, 2014.

[15] Discovery Takes Controlling Stake in Eurosport. New York Times. David Gelles. January 21, 2014. RT: April 17, 2014.

[16] Eurosport owner Discovery considering Premier League TV rights bid. The Guardian. Mark Sweney. January 24, 2014. RT: April 17, 2014

[17] Discovery to Take Control of Eurosport International. The Hollywood Reporter. Georg Szalai. January 21, 2014. RT: April 17, 2014

[18] Discovery Acquires Stake in DogTV, a Network Aimed at Canine Viewers. Variety. Todd Spangler. April 8, 2014. RT:April 18, 2014.

[19] Discovery Wants Your Dog To Watch More TV. Bloomberg Businessweek. Kyle Stock.  April 8, 2014. RT: April 18, 2014.

[20] Discovery Buys Stake In A TV Channel For Dogs. Huffington Post. Bill Bradley. April 11, 2014. RT: April 18, 2014.

[21] Discovery teams with Howard, Grazer for online shows. USA Today. Roger Yu. April 3, 2014. RT: April 18, 2014.

[22] Brian Grazer, Ron Howard Launch ‘New Form’ Digital Studio With Discovery. The Hollywood Reporter. Natalie Jarvey. April 2, 2014. RT: April 18, 2014.

[23] Howard, Grazer to team with Discovery on Web shows. New York Post. Claire Atkinson. April 2, 2014. RT: April 18, 2014.