Viacom International Media Networks UK (VIMN UK) is to launch Paramount Network, a new free-to-air UK destination offering premium scripted drama, high quality comedy and movies.
Launching on 4th July, it’s aimed at Generation X, Millennials and fans of cinematic storytelling, iconic moments and non-stop action.
The channel will be scheduled and programmed by the Channel 5 editorial team under the direction of Ben Frow, Channel 5 Director of Programmes. The international roll out is being overseen by Jill Offman, EVP Comedy Central and Paramount Network International.
Confirmed to premiere on the channel is US comedy series THE MICK (pictured) starring Kaitlin Olsen (It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia), both joining the slate later in the year.
Paramount Network is the home of various free-to-air premieres, including the seventh season of SUITS, the critically-acclaimed US drama from creator/executive producer Aaron Korsh and starring Gabriel Macht, Patrick J. Adams, Rick Hoffman, Sarah Rafferty and Meghan Markle. Earlier seasons of SUITS will also air on the Paramount Network, allowing fans to catch the series from the very beginning. The Kiefer Sutherland drama DESIGNATED SURVIVOR will also air on the channel.
Ben Frow, Director of Programming, Channel 5, overseeing the UK launch of Paramount Network said: “Paramount Network is set to deliver high end Hollywood entertainment with blockbuster movies, scripted drama and critically acclaimed comedy featuring some of the biggest names on the planet. Supported by Channel 5’s creative scheduling and audience insight and underpinned by Viacom’s brand-building expertise, Paramount Network is a popular premium content destination in a free-to-air world.”
Jill Offman, EVP Comedy Central and Paramount Network International said: “Launching on TV screens in the UK is another critical milestone for the Paramount Network brand, which we’re convinced will resonate strongly with British viewers given Paramount’s distinguished and successful history of epic, cinematic story-telling for global audiences. Delivering free-to-air content to millions of UK households, underlines our belief that, despite the growing popularity of on-demand, viewers continue to value highly TV channels that offer an intelligently scheduled linear line up of quality entertainment.”
The UK becomes the third Paramount Network after the US and Spain, and there are separately 11 locally scheduled versions of Paramount Channel internationally. Paramount is one of Viacom’s flagship global brands including Comedy Central, MTV and Nickelodeon and its fastest growing international entertainment brand.
Paramount Network will launch in the UK on Freeview (57), Sky (159), BT (57) and TalkTalk (57) platforms.
