Smithsonian Networks And Blue Ant Media Enter Partnership To Expand Smithsonian Channel International

Smithsonian Networks and Blue Ant Media announced a collaboration to expand distribution of Smithsonian Channel in Asia-Pacific, Turkey, Israel, the Middle East and Africa. The deal is the latest development in the successful partnership between the two companies and involves Blue Ant Media operating the network’s HD and 4K SVOD platforms, free-to-air and pay TV linear television services and branded programming blocks in the aforementioned territories.

“Blue Ant Media is uniquely positioned to seamlessly facilitate Smithsonian Channel’s entry into new territories in Asia, Africa and the Middle East,” said Tom Hayden, President of Smithsonian Networks. “We are very pleased to continue our successful relationship with Blue Ant Media in expanding the brand’s global presence.”

Past enterprises include the launch of Smithsonian Channel in Canada and joint venture Love Nature 4K, which creates and distributes the largest library of 4K wildlife and nature content in the world through linear television and via streaming video in 60+ countries. This latest partnership combines Smithsonian Channel’s powerful brand and award-winning programming with Blue Ant Media’s established affiliate sales, marketing and operations presence in the regions.

“The Smithsonian Channel is an iconic brand committed to extraordinary factual storytelling through documentaries and series covering science, nature, culture, history, air and spacecraft, stemming from the Smithsonian Institute’s impressive 130+ year history as a cultural hub,” said Ward Platt, CEO, Kids & Global Networks, Blue Ant Media. “Blue Ant Media has a suite of global brands, with great programming, that are rapidly growing in popularity all over the world, and a strong team on the ground in multiple territories internationally, which will see Smithsonian Channel grow its footprint even further in markets such as South East Asia, India, China, Japan, Australia, Middle East and Africa.  

Inspired by the world-famous Smithsonian Institution – the world’s largest museum, education and research complex – and the storytelling prowess of SHOWTIME and CBS, Smithsonian Channel entertains and educates while showcasing awe-inspiring stories and powerful factual programs, shining new light on popular genres. Smithsonian Channel is already available in the USA, Canada, Latin America, Nigeria and Singapore.―BCS Bureau