FRANCE: MGM Networks is rapidly expanding distribution reach in Europe. The broadcaster and Swiss pay TV provider Teleclub AG have launched the MGM Channel to Teleclub subscribers in Switzerland and Liechtenstein. The German- language channel is also available in English to Teleclub's Family Package subscribers.
In addition, MGM Networks and Iceland's media and entertainment group Northern Lights Communications (NLC) announced that the MGM Channel will launch on 1 November on NLC's pay-TV system. In India, MGM has a 50:50 joint venture with Zee.
MGM Networks executive VP Bruce Tuchman was quoted in an official release saying, "The entry into Switzerland and Liechtenstein of our German-language service underscores how successful the channel has been since its launch in Germany and Austria just six months ago. This agreement joins numerous great partnerships we have built across the continent since our first European launch last year."
Over the past two years, MGM Networks has rapidly expanded worldwide. It claims to have been able to more than quadruple its channel interests to about 100 countries across six continents. The MGM Channel's proposed launch into Iceland will make 12 European countries that receive branded MGM networks. Its other channels in Asia include Zee MGM, a Mandarin-subtitled channel in Hong Kong, a second MGM channel in South Korea and a strategic alliance with CNBC Asia Pacific.
The MGM library includes 19 Woody Allen movies, Rain Man and Hannibal. The last title aired recently in India on HBO.