NBC Universal Global Networks launches one of its most successful channel brands for the first time in Greece with Universal Channel debuting exclusively on Conn-x TV, the IPTV platform of OTE, one of the leading telecom groups in South-eastern Europe. The move is part of NBCU Global Network’s ongoing global channels expansion and central to the company’s objective, led by Roma Khanna, President, Global Networks & Digital Initiatives, to grow to almost 100 channels internationally in 2010.

Focused on exciting, engaging, character-centric entertainment, Universal Channel’s programme selection consists of award-winning series and blockbuster movies appealing across age groups, from distributors such as Universal Studios, 20th Century Fox Film Corporation and CBS Paramount.

The launch programming line-up shares a record-breaking 200 award nominations in total. The launch night premieres the blockbuster The Day after Tomorrow (starring Dennis Quaid and Jake Gyllenhaal), Sanctuary - premiering for the first time in Greece, Law & Order - one of the most successful prime time TV brands, and the US smash hit series Eureka.

Universal Channel will show a range of world famous TV series which will be seen for the first time on Greek TV. This includes the fast paced real life entertainment series Flipping Out, the adrenaline charged Flashpoint, and the wickedly funny Nurse Jackie. Also showing are the critically acclaimed NBC series 30 Rock, the cult series The Office, the hit comedy series My Name is Earl, and Emmy award winning Malcolm in the Middle.

Sunday nights feature compelling content from NBC Universal’s popular SCI FI channel, showcasing the best of science fiction, fantasy and paranormal programming. The launch night will kick off with the all time cult favourite Stargate (starring Kurt Russell). Sunday night’s will feature a blockbuster line up including Academy Award nominated fantasy epic Dragonheart (starring Dennis Quaid and Sean Connery), 4 Academy Awards winner Terminator 2 as well as 2 Academy Awards winner Total Recall (both starring Arnold Schwarzenegger).

Universal Channel also features a host of star-studded Hollywood movies such as the ©Academy Award winner Master and Commander (starring Russell Crowe), acclaimed romantic comedy Notting Hill (starring Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant) and the all time favourite Garfield The Movie (starring Jennifer Love Hewitt).

Commenting on this launch, Francois Roux, Managing Director, EMEA, NBCU Global Networks said: “We’re thrilled to be establishing our world class brands in a market as significant as Greece. Universal Channel promises to usher in a new era of entertainment for our viewers, who we know will enjoy the wide programming genre offered by the channel. This is an important step in our growth plan for Europe, a priority region where we are committed to building a significant presence with our world-class brands.”

This launch represents a significant milestone in NBCU’s strategic commitment to expand international operations into priority markets, as unveiled in April 2007 by Jeff Zucker, President and CEO, NBC Universal, and Peter Smith, President, NBC Universal International. In the past 18 months, NBC Universal Global Networks has launched channels in countries including the UK, France, Portugal, Russia, Romania, Poland, Japan, and Hong Kong, with more channel launches to be announced in the coming months.