Hallmark stays on DStv

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Danette Breitenbach

NBC Universal Global Networks and African DTH operator MultiChoice on Monday, 15 June 2009 signed a renewal that confirms that the Hallmark Channel will continue to be received by over two million DStv subscribers in South Africa and sub-Saharan Africa.

NBC Universal added Hallmark to its channel portfolio through the acquisition of Sparrowhawk Media in 2007. Hallmark Channel consistently ranks as one of the top-10 pay-TV channels on the DStv platform.

Roma Khanna, president, NBCU Global Networks, said: "We are delighted to continue our valued partnership in Africa as part of our global channels strategy. This is an exciting market where we are proud to bring high-quality, top-rated programming to discerning Hallmark viewers. We look forward to further launches of our strong channel brands in the near future."

MultiChoice expertise

John Burnett, MD Benelux, Nordics & South Africa, Global Networks added: "We are pleased to renew our well-established partnership with MultiChoice, taking advantage of their expertise and local knowledge to strengthen our position in the region."

Aletta Alberts MultiChoice GM: content said: "NBC Universal is a major media player renowned for their portfolio of quality channels. Hallmark Channel is popular amongst our subscribers, both on the DStv Premium and Compact packages, offering a mix of high-quality movies and TV series."

Hallmark Channel viewers will be able to enjoy a range of outstanding content including top US series NCIS, Numb3rs, Law & Order, drama series Cane, medical drama House, psychological thriller Flashpoint, as well as top-rated British series Foyles War, Midsomer Murders and a raft of recent, high-production-value “made-for-TV movies”.