AMC Networks takes over running of BBC America with $200m 49.9% stake
US television network AMC has bought a 49.9 per cent stake in BBC America and will take over the running of the channel.
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BBC Worldwide will retain the remaining 50.1 per cent stake, but AMC – known for airing popular shows such as Mad Men and The Walking Dead – will take over operational control after its $200m investment.
Tim Davie, BBC Worldwide chief executive, said: “They [AMC] are committed to the kind of high-quality, unmissable content that has already gained BBC America one of the most educated, affluent and tech savvy audiences in all of US television.”
BBC director-general Tony Hall added that the dead would help the BBC audiences in the US and strengthen BBC America’s long term position.
BBC America is available in nearly 80 million US homes via cable and satellite, while AMC Networks runs more than 60 international channels.