Rogers Communications Canada will remove Family Channel, Family Jr., WildBrainTV, and Télémagino from its distribution service; WildBrain will surrender the channel licenses to the CRTC and simplify its voting structure to a single class
WildBrain Ltd.has given an update on its television broadcast business, including Family Channel, Family Jr., WildBrainTV, and Télémagino.Following a recent decision from the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC), which found that WildBrain was not the subject of undue disadvantage from Rogers Communications Canada, WildBrain has been unable to negotiate a new carriage agreement with Rogers for the above channels.
Rogers intends to remove the channels from its distribution service, which is expected to occur in the coming months.As a result, WildBrain will not sell a majority stake in the channels to IoM Media Ventures, and will instead surrender the channel licenses to the CRTC.Following the move, WildBrain will not be subject to Canadian control restrictions under the Broadcasting Act and will simplify its voting structure to a single class.
“For nearly four decades, Family Channel has been a trusted destination for Canadian kids and families,” said Josh Scherba, WildBrain president and CEO.“We’re incredibly proud of the legacy we’ve built — thanks to our loyal viewers, dedicated television employees and the many talented Canadian producers we’ve partnered with.” “While it is unfortunate that the channels will be discontinued, the impact on our broader business is minimal and does not affect our go-forward strategy,” Scherba continued.“WildBrain remains a global leader in kids’ and family entertainment, with unique strengths in monetizing entertainment IP across content creation, audience engagement and global licensing.
We have deliberately positioned our business to align with changing consumer habits, including a strategic exit from the declining broadcast space in Canada.”
“We delivered 17% growth year-to-date through the third fiscal quarter, underscoring the strength of our diversified platform beyond the television business despite ongoing industry headwinds,” Scherba concluded.“We remain focused on sustaining that momentum by leveraging our iconic IP—such as Peanuts, Strawberry Shortcake and Teletubbies—across streaming, YouTube, consumer products and immersive fan experiences.As the entertainment landscape evolves, so do we—with a clear vision and an unwavering commitment to delivering quality content and beloved brands to kids and families around the world.”
Journalist, antique shop owner, aspiring gemologist—L'Wren brings a diverse perspective to animation, where every frame reflects her varied passions.
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