Hallmark Drama Secures Dish Network Deal

By R. Thomas Umstead
published

Upstart network Hallmark Drama has reached a distribution agreement with Dish Network, according to network executives.

The agreement puts the service --which launched on Oct. 1 and features a mix of acquired content and Hallmark-themed original movies -- in nearly 10 million households, according to network officials. 

RELATED: Hallmark Drama Channel Launches Into Headwinds For Linear Networks

Crown Media Family Networks executive vice president of strategy and distribution Erin McIlvain told Multichannel News that the network has been well received by distributors, although she would not comment on any potential future deals.

“Overwhelmingly we’ve received positive feedback from distributors,” she said. “I think that’s based on our brand and the value proposition that they know we bring.” 

R. Thomas Umstead
R. Thomas Umstead

R. Thomas Umstead serves as senior content producer, programming for Multichannel News, Broadcasting + Cable and Next TV. During his more than 30-year career as a print and online journalist, Umstead has written articles on a variety of subjects ranging from TV technology, marketing and sports production to content distribution and development. He has provided expert commentary on television issues and trends for such TV, print, radio and streaming outlets as Fox News, CNBC, the Today show, USA Today, The New York Times and National Public Radio. Umstead has also filmed, produced and edited more than 100 original video interviews, profiles and news reports featuring key cable television executives as well as entertainers and celebrity personalities.