Suddenlink Communications said it has launched filmmaker Robert Rodriguez’ El Rey Network in select markets across the country.
El Rey, one of four multi-cultural networks launched in 2012 as part of the conditions surrounding Comcast’s acquisition of a majority stake in NBC Universal, is a 24-hour English language network featuring original scripted and unscripted programming, movies, and cult-classic acquired series that aspire to awaken viewers' inner renegade. Current original series airing on El Rey Network include “From Dusk Till Dawn: The Series”, the Lucha Libre wrestling series, “Lucha Underground” and “El Rey Network Presents: The Director’s Chair," hosted by Rodriguez and featuring one on one interviews with some of Hollywood's leading filmmakers.
”El Rey Network provides unique programming that enhances the variety of entertainment choices we offer customers,” said Suddenlink senior vice president and chief programming officer Kathy Payne in a statement. “We’re pleased to add it to our growing list of viewing options.”
Suddenlink is the seventh largest cable operator in the country and has about 1.4 million residential and commercial customers in Arkansas, Louisiana, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Texas, West Virginia and elsewhere. The Suddenlink deal is the second in about a week for the network, which signed Dish Network as an affiliate on Jan. 29.
El Rey, which counts Spanish-language broadcaster Univision as an equity partner, has reached carriage deals in the past with DirecTV, Time Warner Cable, Bright House Networks and Cox Communications.
"We're excited that Suddenlink customers will now have access to El Rey Network's cutting edge programming," El Rey founder and chairman Rodriguez said in a statement. "Our content reflects the changing face of the American television viewer and we're proud that Suddenlink and other distributors support this new and growing audience.”
