(http://broadcastingcable.com/sites/default/files/public/styles/blog_content/public/Jonathan%20Katz.jpg?itok=Eiq2imYi) | The executive who helped launch African-American focused broadcast network Bounce TV has formed his own company to start two new targeted digital multicast channels. Jonathan Katz, who will remain COO of Bounce TV, has formed Katz Broadcasting, which plans to light up Escape, the first broadcast network for women, and Grit, aimed at men, this summer. Escape and Grit have carriage agreements with Univision that cover 30% of the country. Initial markets include New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Dallas, Houston and Miami. Univision is also a key distributor of Bounce TV. Katz Broadcasting said it would make more distribution announcements in the coming weeks. |
(http://broadcastingcable.com/sites/default/files/public/styles/blog_content/public/Jonathan%20Katz_1.jpg?itok=bGyx5QbY) | Katz Broadcasting reached a licensing deal with Paramount Pictures covering about 200 films that will air on Katz’s two new digital broadcast networks, Escape and Grit. Katz, run by former Turner executive Jonathan Katz (pictured), also added Bill Cox as senior VP programming for Grit and Walter Naar as VP programming for Escape. Both execs worked with Katz at Turner Broadcasting. Paramount titles including The Accused, Dead Man Walking and The Hours will appear on Escape, which is aimed at women 25 to 54. |