Rainbow Media’s Sundance Channel and We Tv Break New Ground In Asia Through Measat And Ascent Media

11 November2009

Rainbow Media, MEASAT Satellite Systems Sdn. Bhd. (“MEASAT”), and Ascent Media Pte. Ltd. announced an agreement was signed to distribute Sundance Channel and WE tv across the Asia-Pacific region via the MEASAT-3a satellite. The channels will be distributed in high and standard definition. Today’s agreement marks a milestone for both brands, which will be made available for the first time throughout Asia.

Under the agreement, Ascent Media will deliver a complete file-based workflow and fully automated playout system, operated in a shared network environment, and will provide the HD uplink to the MEASAT-3a satellite. Ascent's world-leading talent will also create promotional spots for both channels suited to the Asian market, as well as provide other post-production services.

“We are pleased to announce this significant deal, which paves the way for the Sundance Channel and WE tv to be available in Asia for the first time," said Ed Carroll, Chief Operating Officer, Rainbow Entertainment Services. "Working with MEASAT and Ascent, we are looking forward to Sundance Channel expanding its reach into another major world market and the launch of WE tv beyond the United States."

“We are fortunate to be working once again with Rainbow Media and Ascent Media for the distribution of Rainbow Media’s latest HD initiative in Asia. Our collaboration with Rainbow Media dates back to 2007 when VOOM HD, the first HD channel on MEASAT-3, was launched in Asia. The addition of Sundance Channel and WE tv strengthens our position as the leader of HD channel distribution in the region,” said Terry Bleakley, Vice President, Commercial Operations, MEASAT.

“We are pleased to provide Rainbow Media with an end-to-end solution that allows them to quickly and efficiently expand their presence in another international market,” said Jose Royo, Chief Executive Officer, Ascent Media Group. “Media companies of all kinds are increasingly looking for ways to implement more efficient operations and our shared HD platform provides a cost-effective solution for networks to continue to expand in a difficult economic environment.”

Under the creative direction of Robert Redford, Sundance Channel (www.sundancechannel.com) reaches more than 33 million subscribers in the U.S. The Sundance Channel schedule is highlighted by acclaimed programming such as: original series, Man Shops Globe and Lazy Environmentalist; the premiere limited series 100 Mile Challenge; the theatrical special film presentation, King Lear starring Academy-Award® nominee, Sir Ian McKellen; and coveted indie films like Theater of War starring Academy-Award®-winning actors Meryl Streep and Kevin Kline.

Available in nearly 74 million U.S. households, WE tv (www.WEtv.com) is the premier source for women looking to satisfy their curiosity with fascinating, original stories and entertaining, informative content that is relevant to key stages of their lives. WE tv features such signature series as Bridezillas, Amazing Wedding Cakes, and The Locator.