Verizon announced separate programming-distribution agreements with one network group and nine independently owned networks for carriage of 12 Spanish language channels on Verizon FiOS TV, which launched its first market on Sept. 22 in Keller, Texas.
The channels include De Película, De Película Clásico and Telehit, broadcast by TuTv, a joint venture between Grupo Televisa and Univisión. The independently owned networks are Canal SUR, TVE Internacional, Infinito, Cine Latino, Cine Mexicano, La Familia, TV Chile, TV Colombia and EWTN Español. All 12 channels are available in FiOS TV's Spanish Language Package, which has a total of 25 channels in Keller, and La Conexión Package, which includes nearly 140 channels with English- and Spanish-language programming.
"We are pleased to offer these unique and diverse channels on FiOS TV to address the specific entertainment interests of the Hispanic community," said Terry Denson, vice president of programming and marketing for FiOS TV. "FiOS TV's Spanish Language Package and La Conexión Package will provide the fastest growing demographic group in the U.S. with exceptional choices of popular in-language channels, plus many newer networks and English-speaking networks that appeal to this audience."
The networks announced today will complement other major cable and network channels available to Verizon FiOS TV subscribers.
FiOS TV service in Keller provides a broad collection of all-digital programming with more than 330 channels and more on the way. FiOS TV digital customers will also have access to a large selection of on-demand content that is easy to order and view.
Terms of the agreements with the channels announced today were not disclosed. The agreements were signed prior to the Keller launch, and the channels, except for TVE Internacional, are currently available in Keller. TVE Internacional will be available there shortly, and all the channels will be available in other FiOS TV markets.
Following are the details of the programming on each channel:
De Película
The No. 1 movie channel and highest-rated pay television network of any kind in Mexico, featuring the most popular contemporary and classic movies. De Película has something for everyone in the family showcasing a vast library filled with the best from every genre of Latin film.
De Película Clásico
The only Spanish-language movie channel dedicated to the best films from the period during the 1930's, 40's and 50's known as Mexico's "Golden Era" of filmmaking. These movies are a central part of the Hispanic cultural heritage, featuring legendary stars, masterful direction and groundbreaking cinematography.
Telehit
The trend-setting channel for Latino youth, with a hip, urban programming sensibility. Telehit features live, original programming produced daily, top-of-the-charts English and Spanish music videos, celebrity interviews, live concerts and entertainment news.
Canal SUR
The unique source for news broadcasts from Mexico or Central or South America or the Caribbean. SUR broadcasts news and variety programs directly from some the top broadcasters in each country.
TVE Internacional
The No. 1 network from one of the biggest Spanish-language media companies. Features award-winning, high-quality programming including dramas, comedies, Spanish-language films, kids programming and news. One of the most popular cable networks in Latin America.
Infinito
Infinito is the only channel that reveals the unknown, the unexpected and the most unexplored territories of knowledge, with original programming covering topics regarding the new age, unexplained mysteries, conspiracies, UFO experiences, religious subjects, yoga, spirituality and alternative therapies.
Cine Latino
The complete movie network with the most Spanish-language movies of any channel - all shown uncut and commercial free. Features the best titles of recent years from Mexico, Argentina, Spain and more.
Cine Mexicano
The only contemporary Spanish language Mexican movie network featuring dramas, comedies and action adventure films. Cine Mexicano has fresh and unique movies 24/7 with recognized movie stars and no commercials.
La Familia Cosmovisio (LFC)
Provides a unique, Spanish-language alternative for families, with wholesome entertainment that honors the Hispanic culture. LFC, a network produced by Hispanics for Hispanics, features family-friendly programming including live talk shows, music, novelas, variety, kids programs and more. Programs on LFC include productions from Miami, Mexico and Central and South America.
TV Chile
A leading channel with programming appropriate for all age groups. This 24-hour-a-day network offers news, telenovelas, sports and nature documentaries. With 90 percent of its programming originally produced and 18 hours live each day, TV Chile offers fresh and relevant entertainment programming for the family.
TV Colombia
A 24 x 7 channel for the entire family, with multi-target programming featuring news, sports, live talk shows, variety shows and kids' programs from Colombia's leading broadcasters and content providers. TV Colombia broadcasts more than 13 live hours every day.
EWTN Español
EWTN Español is the world's largest Spanish Catholic cable network enjoyed by millions in Latin America and now in the U.S. EWTN Español offers family-oriented, spiritual-growth programming from a Catholic point of view. Its diverse schedule includes daily Mass, talk shows, informational programs, teaching series with noted theologians, children's series, animated specials and devotional programs. Musical programs, documentaries and live church events are among EWTN's most popular specials.