The MGM HD Channel will cease broadcasting in Germany at the end of 2016, spokespeople from both MGM and Sky Deutschland confirmed to Broadband TV News.
No reasons were given for the move. According to sources familiar with the matter, an agreement was reached not to renew the carriage contract due to expire at the end of 2016.
The channel which screens films from the library of Hollywood studio MGM was distributed exclusively in Germany on Sky Deutschland (formerly Premiere) since 2003 and is currently part of the Sky Cinema package.
Distribution of the MGM HD Channel in Austria and Switzerland will also cease. MGM first-run movies will continue to be available on the Sky Deutschland platform through the end of 2017, according to MGM and Sky Deutschland.
MGM also plans to bring its branded services to German-speaking Europe in the near future.
“We wish to thank our viewers whose loyalty in the last thirteen years has always been our biggest motivation,” said Christine Brand, managing director of MGM HD Channel. “We are also going to take this opportunity to enhance our MGM programme service for the digital era, so we can provide the best experience to our viewers across alternative platforms. The Lion will continue to roar in Germany.”
Chris Ottinger, president MGM worldwide TV distribution and acquisitions, added: “MGM is far from exiting the market. MGM films will continue to be available across multiple platforms, from multiple providers. Built out of our U.S. business, our global branded services initiative is providing millions of households with the opportunity to watch branded MGM services programmed for a variety of audiences. We are excited about bringing this business to German-speaking Europe in the near future.”
