Hearst Networks UK’s portfolio of factual entertainment channels, including Sky History, Sky History 2, Crime+Investigation, and Blaze, will continue to be available on Sky and NOW platforms in the UK and Ireland. This follows an expanded agreement between Hearst (formerly A+E Networks) and Sky.
The new deal includes linear channel distribution, video-on-demand services, and an extension of the media sales relationship with Sky Media, Sky’s advertising division. Sky Media will exclusively handle Hearst Networks’ advertising sales, encompassing linear, video-on-demand, AdSmart, and sponsorship advertising.
Launched in 2020, the co-branded channel Sky History exemplifies the successful partnership between Hearst Networks UK and Sky. The rebranding of The History Channel to Sky History significantly enhanced their market position alongside other Sky-owned brands like Sky Documentaries and Sky Comedy. Sky History boasts the highest monthly reach among pay-TV factual channels.
“We are delighted to strengthen our long-standing partnership with Sky,” said Dean Possenniskie, Managing Director, UK & EMEA at Hearst Networks. “We value Sky’s continued investment in our brands, and we are excited to build on the outstanding success of Sky History while growing the prominence of Crime+Investigation on Sky.”
Jon Simkin, MD Content Partnerships at Sky, added: “We’re thrilled to strengthen our long-standing partnership with Hearst Networks, continuing to sell their advertising and deliver their distinctive content to our customers.”
Hearst Networks UK is a joint venture between Hearst and Sky. Hearst Networks EMEA comprises four distinct companies: Hearst Networks UK (a long-standing joint venture with Sky operating across the UK, Nordics, Benelux, Central and Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa); Hearst Networks Germany; Hearst Networks Italia; and COSMO Spain (each wholly owned by Hearst).