Discovery Channel Aiming Big With Original Documentaries

Discovery Channel is ramping up its development of marquee specials and documentaries as it continues to establish itself as one of the leading brands in factual programming, according to Nancy Daniels, chief brand officer of Discovery and factual for Discovery Inc. 

In a recent Multichannel News video interview, Daniels outlines the network's original programming strategy, which includes such tentpole shows as Serengeti and Egypt Live: Expedition Unknown.  

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.