TORONTO – It was easy to pick the headline of the fall TV season upfront presentation of CHCH this morning in Toronto: The return of a CHCH television classic – the new Tiny Talent Time.
"2014 marks a significant year for CHCH. The station will celebrate 60 years on the air, and we're heading into the new television season with plenty of momentum and a strong and proven simulcast schedule," said Chris Fuoco, vice-president of sales and marketing, Channel Zero, the owner of the station. "CHCH has established itself as a top five station in Toronto and Ontario, and we're excited about what our 60th year plans have in store for our viewers and advertisers."
The station’s prime time audience grew 40% in the 2012-13 TV season as compared to the prior year.
For next season, CHCH has picked up exclusive rights to game show Spin Off from executive producer Mark Burnett (Survivor, Celebrity Apprentice, The Voice) and hosted by Elvira Kurt (pictured). The show will be the lead in to the new Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, hosted by Cedric the Entertainer.
Spin Off also features a one-of-a-kind digital companion, Spin Off 360, which lets viewers play along with the show in real time against other at-home players on any internet-enabled device, and outside the broadcast anyone can play Spin Off 360 Home Edition (which will be accessible late summer from www.chch.com). "As a multi-platform property, Spin Off provides unique digital ad units and customizable TV integrations that seamlessly combine client brands into the overall entertainment experience," said Geoff Thrasher, general sales manager, Channel Zero.
The fall line-up includes two of television's longest-running and most popular game shows Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy! six nights a week. In 2014, Jeopardy! will also reach a milestone – its 30th season and host Alex Trebek was on hand to help host the CHCH Upfront today.
In 2014, the station reaches its most significant milestone yet – 60 years on the air – and CHCH viewers can look forward to a year-long celebration starting January 2014 with on-air elements that pay tribute to the 60th Anniversary; the contemporary return of the channel's original mascot Mr. Eleven; retrospective programming specials and anniversary-themed contests – all leading up to June 7, 2014 – the day that commemorates the launch of the station over half a century ago.
The big story though is the return of a show that holds a special place in the hearts of many Ontarians, kids talent show, Tiny Talent Time. "We are elated that CHCH is bringing back a television classic recognized by viewers old and young alike!" said Jennifer Chen, vice-president of programming, Channel Zero. The remake will begin casting for its little stars this fall, production will take place at the start of the New Year with a target air date of Spring 2014.
In another significant move to bolster its presence in online and digital media, CHCH's parent company Channel Zero announced today that it has acquired a controlling interest in ANDPOP INC. and has formed its newest division – Channel Zero Digital. As well, Channel Zero will also be the Canadian sales agent for Sony Entertainment’s online video streaming service Crackle.
www.chch.com
www.tvchannelzero.com
