DStv welcomes new channel, TLC Entertainment featuring Oprah WinfreyNetwork (OWN) block

MultiChoice and Discovery Networks International have announced the launchof TLC Entertainment across Sub-Saharan Africa on Thursday 17 October. The refreshed channel which was known as Discovery TLC (Channel 172), will be exclusive to DStv customers and will include an exclusive block showcasing the best programming from OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network. The channel will be available to DStv Compact, Compact Plus (where available) and Premiumbouquets. 

TLC, DStv’s popular female flagship brand, first launched in 2011 and on DStv and has proved hugely successful with African audiences. TLC’s success has been bolstered by a strong line-up of entertaining female-targeted programming with genres including family, food, fashion, health, reality and celebrity.

“The launch of TLC Entertainment is hugely exciting for us and marks a key moment in our continuing investment in Africa,” said James Gibbons, SVP & Country Manager, Discovery Networks CEEMEA. “The new-look channel will feature content tailored to suit our loyal viewers, making it even more enjoyable and appointment-to-view. Securing the OWN programming block is crucial to this, and we hope to build on the success of the Oprah’s Next Chapter specials with Justin Bieber and Lance Armstrong by showcasing even more of the diverse, entertaining and inspirational content that only Oprah and her OWN team can deliver.”

In his support of the partnership between MultiChoice and Discovery Networks International, Nico Meyer, CEO of MultiChoice Africa said: “Our priority as MultiChoice is to bring the best television experience to our subscribers. Content is key in ensuring that viewers are exposed to the latest international trends. We value our relationships with our channel partners who are an integral part of our content strategy. The success of the TLC channel in previous years has been a big motivating factor in extending its programme offering for our African audiences and what better way to include the Queen of talk, Oprah Winfrey’s new television network, OWN in its new face lift. We are very excited about this new development and we are confident that television audiences will equally be pleased with the refreshed channel and extraordinary entertainment on the cards.”

“It’s no secret that Africa and Oprah Winfrey enjoy a mutual affinity, so bringing the block to this special market is the right next step,” said Luis Silberwasser, Executive Vice President and Chief Content Officer, DNI. “Building upon the success of the block in the UK and the excitement surrounding its upcominglaunch in Australia, we are proud to bring this unique offering to DStv.”

TLC Entertainment will feature fan favourites from the network’s current line-up—including Cake Boss, Long Island Medium, and Say Yes to the Dress.Packaged in two branded OWN weekly blocks—My OWN Thursday and Super Soul Sunday—viewers will have two dedicated slots each week to enjoy OWN programming with the biggest hits from OWN, such as Oprah’s Next Chapter,Oprah’s Master Class, and more.