Discovery Communications to Offer HD Channel Internationally
Discovery Communications, the leading global real-world media and entertainment company, today announced it will extend availability of Discovery HD Theater(TM) in markets outside of the United States, affording viewers around the globe the opportunity to explore their world in illuminating visual detail through high definition television.
"With today's announcement, Discovery Communications extends its leadership position in the U.S. and the world by providing an all-HD network to international markets," said Judith A. McHale, president and CEO of Discovery Communications. "Discovery Communications is positioned to lead the HD programming arena internationally given the universal appeal of Discovery's brand, our proven expertise in launching international networks and our tradition of providing visually rich content to our viewers throughout the world."
In June 2002, Discovery Communications launched Discovery HD Theater(TM) in the U.S. Today, Discovery HD Theater(TM) is one of the most widely distributed HD networks in the country. The U.S. network, which offers HD programming from the company's top brands including leading networks Discovery Channel and Animal Planet, will be the model for the international network. The international network will be offered as a stand-alone channel or in programming blocks. The company plans to offer the network worldwide, focusing in markets where HDTV is gaining a foothold, such as Canada, Mexico, Korea, China, Japan, Germany and the UK.
Discovery Communications has established an extensive presence around the world. Offering customized schedules and a compelling blend of global and regional programming, the company currently operates 10 international television brands delivered via 85 feeds in 35 languages.
Discovery Communications, Inc. is the leading global real-world media and entertainment company. DCI has grown from its core property, the Discovery Channel, first launched in the United States in 1985, to current global operations in more than 160 countries and territories with over one billion cumulative subscribers. DCI's 60 networks of distinctive programming represent 21 entertainment brands including TLC, Animal Planet, Travel Channel, Discovery Health Channel, Discovery Kids, Discovery Times Channel, The Science Channel, Military Channel, Discovery Home Channel, Discovery en Espanol, Discovery HD Theater and FitTV. DCI's other properties consist of Discovery Education, Discovery.com and 120 Discovery Channel retail stores. DCI also distributes BBC America in the United States. DCI's ownership consists of four shareholders: Liberty Media Corporation, Cox Communications, Inc., Advance/Newhouse Communications and John S. Hendricks, the Company's Founder and Chairman.
