Flextech launches poker, football and fighting channel Player

by Sam Matthews, Brand Republic 22-Feb-06, 11:00

LONDON - Flextech is launching a sports and gaming channel called Player, which used to operate as a programming strand on sister channel Challenge, in early March.

The channel is billed as a mix of "action, adventure, fighting, gambling, poker, football and drive-time" and will air on Sky and Telewest from launch on EPG number 123.

The 24-hour channel will kick off with the live Italian football match between Juventus and Sampdoria, an exclusive to Player.

Other launch highlights include: the Martin Scorsese gangster movie 'Casino'; drama series 'Tilt', starring 'Reservoir Dogs' Michael Madsen; live motor-racing from the FIA GT Championship; and programmes on the European Poker Tour.

As well as acquired and commissioned content, the channel will also look to make the most of advertiser-funded programming opportunities.

Dave Clarke, Bravo channel editor, adds Player to his existing remit, while Kate Barnes, acting channel editor for Challenge, will be responsible for acquisitions.

Jonathan Webb, director of programming for Bravo, Trouble and Challenge, said: "Player will be gritty and intense. It will be about taking risks and winning and losing big. Our shows will explore in depth the worlds of poker, football, fighting and driving and will capture the moments and the stories of the people we most admire as true players."

The NTL-owned Flextech owns 11 channels including Trouble, Bravo, LivingTV and Challenge, as well as a 50% stake in UKTV channels with BBC Worldwide.

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