HiFi brand to be retired
TORONTO and NEW YORK — Blue Ant Media announced today it will launch BBC First in Canada on March 16, which will be available for free preview during its first month, until April 16.
The new specialty service, which replaces the broadcaster’s HiFi channel, will give Canadian viewers access to BBC First’s scripted and factual entertainment programing, including BBC original series Top Gear (pictured, now entering its 30th season), The Office (with Ricky Gervais), Death in Paradise, The Graham Norton Show, and Antiques Roadshow (BBC’s longest-running factual program).
“Canadians love British television, and Blue Ant Media’s expanded partnership with BBC Studios underpins our commitment to invest in high-quality, distinctive programs we know our audiences will enjoy,” says Jamie Schouela, president of global channels and media at Blue Ant Media, in a press release. “To celebrate the launch of BBC First, we’ve scheduled a month-long free preview event offering audiences the opportunity to watch their favourite U.K. series all in one place.”
“The launch of BBC First continues our relationship with Blue Ant Media, a great partnership that has led to much success for BBC Earth in Canada. They intuitively understand the BBC brand, in-market needs and how to connect with audiences,” said Rebecca Glashow, president of BBC Studios – Americas.
The BBC First channel launch marks the second joint venture between Blue Ant Media and BBC Studios, who first entered into an agreement to launch BBC Earth in January 2017. It will broadcast in Canada in HD.
HiFi was the last remaining brand from a purchase Blue Ant made in 2012, when it bought High Fidelity HDTV, which then owned HiFi, plus three other channels named Oasis HD (now Love Nature), Equator HD (Smithsonian) and Rush HD (BBC Earth)
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