The BBC’s commercial arm has signed a deal to bring a co-branded version of its popular BBC Earth channel to Indian audiences.
BBC Worldwide has signed a deal with Multi Screen Media Private Limited (MSM) to launch Sony BBC Earth, a new HD channel available in Tamil, English and Hindi which will air some of the BBC’s award-winning factual programmes and the work of some of the world’s foremost factual film makers.
MSM runs the Sony network of television channels in the country and has ”extensive experience and expertise” also in operating and distributing televised entertainment in India.
Paul Dempsey, President, BBC Worldwide Global Markets commented on the deal: “This is a pioneering model for us.
“By working with a respected local partner of the calibre of MSM we can bring BBC Earth’s world class content to a new audience who we know have a huge appetite for premium factual programming.”
NP Singh, Chief Executive Officer, MSM added: “Sony BBC Earth is a joint venture (JV) between Multi Screen Media (MSM) and BBC Worldwide; with MSM owning the majority stake.
“This partnership with BBC Worldwide gives us an unparalleled edge in distributing factual programming to viewers across MSM’s network in India and to sharing with them, some of the best television content ever.”