UKTV has announced that they will be adding a new member to their already large portfolio of entertainment channels.
On July 8th, the network will launch Drama – a new channel available on Freeview targeted at ABC1 Adults which will showcase the best of British drama and actors who have gone on to join Hollywood’s elite. The channel will feature such shows as Pride & Prejudice, The Cinder Path, Sharpe, Tipping the Velvet, Auf Wiedersehen Pet, Cranford and Lark Rise to Candleford.
Drama is the first new channel that UKTV has launched since Really in 2009 and comes as UKTV is enjoying a period of unparalleled success. In addition to being the UK fastest growing commercial network, UKTV has enjoyed record breaking ratings in 2012, increasing its audience share by 10%. Drama joins three other free-to-air channels on UKTV: Dave, Really and Yesterday. Adrian Wills, currently General Manager of UKTV’s Factual Channels, will assume the role of General Manager for Drama.
“Drama is targeted at a different audience demographic than our other highly successful free-to-air channels, Dave, Yesterday and Really”, said Emma Tennant, Controller of UKTV. “ The channel is aimed at people who simply love drama and want to watch critically-acclaimed shows that have absolutely defined the landscape of British television. I am very passionate about the subject and discussing the programmes that will create Drama’s schedule has just been brilliant fun. I’m genuinely excited about the launch of Drama both as a viewer and as Controller.”
While Adrian Wills, General Manager of Drama, added: “Drama lovers’ prayers have been answered. This channel represents the best drama content within the genre and we are confident that viewers will enjoy these celebrated shows.”
