STRATEGIC OPPORTUNITIES
The announcement of Sci Fi Channel's rebranding comes as no surprise, though the new title, "Syfy," might confuse some at first. (When a network needs to issue a disclaimer about how to correctly pronounce their new moniker, is that really a good sign?) Either ways, the times, they are a-changin' for the network.
According to recent press, the change was made, in part, so they can move away from the nerdy and geeky images traditionally associated with science-fiction fans. Network President David Howe said that the name resonated with the younger, tech-savvy crowd because that would be "how they would text it." He also said, in an inteview with TV Week, the name "...made us feel much cooler, much more cutting-edge, much more hip, which was kind of bang-on what we wanted to achieve communication-wise." (TV Week, March 16, 2009)
Also in the works are extensions of the Syfy brand as kids' network, a gaming company, and finding a home in new global territories.
And next stop - Mars?
ORIGINAL:
Programming concepts that are original playing in the Sci Fi genre. They are not limiting themselves to a particular genre either - all forms seem to fly, as long as they are original and compelling.
ACQUIRED:
Similar requirements, they are not opposed to acquiring high quality completed series, dramatic or alternative programming that fit with their brand and needs.
PROGRAM SUBMISSION PROCESS:
Agents should contact the executive in the department in which they are trying to submit (ex., reality, scripted). All e-mail addresses at the Sci Fi Channel follow the format of firstname_lastname@nbcuni.com.
CABLEU NEED TO KNOW:
According to an article in C21, Network President David Howe is looking for a companion show to Sci Fi's GHOST HUNTERS. Says Howe, ""We absolutely are focused around finding more partner shows that we can launch with GHOST HUNTERS - anything that taps into the supernatural, paranormal space, that gives you that docu-soap of a team that is in these houses, and also the visceral fear element of ghostly, spine-chilling stuff going on within the house. We'd really love to nail another show that we can put alongside GHOST HUNTERS and that's a big focus for this year." (C21, March 2, 2009.)
GOT MORE?:
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