HDTV adult movies from Penthouse magazine are now available to some cable TV customers. Boulder, Colo-based New Frontier Media has signed an undefined, “top five” cable operator to distribute its erotic-oriented, HDTV Penthouse On Demand service to 2 million subscribers, according to New Frontier Media president Ken Boenish.
In addition, the a standard definition version of the service – which features adult movies and original programming based on sub-brands like Penthouse Pets -- is currently in front of nearly nine 9 homes, although Boenish said systems involved did not want their names released.
Boenish said the company – which also distributes The Erotic Network (TEN), has several other distribution deals lined up that he says should place the HD VOD service in front of 10 million to 15 million households by March.
“There’s really no better brand in adult television than Penthouse,” he said. “The Penthouse brand enjoys virtually the same household recognition as Playboy, however consumers view the brand as much sexier and exciting as viewing other adult brands.”
Boenish also said the network will launch a 24-hour HD porn channel in February, but the company has yet to find any takers for the channel.
With the proliferation of HD services in the home – and with consumers of adult content traditionally early adaptors of new technology – Boenish believes adult content will be among the most highly desired programming within HD homes.
“All of our primary research tells us that customers want a more real experience – they’re sick and tired of adult content trying to pretend that it’s Hollywood content,” he said. “They want good looking people in real and believable situations and we believe HD puts the performers right in your living room. We think it’s so much more exciting than the standard definition product.”
