EXCLUSIVE: AETN Takes New Name -- A+E Networks -- And New Slogan
New moniker looks to move beyond TV
By Jon Lafayette -- Broadcasting & Cable, 5/2/2011 4:00:00 AM
RELATED: History Wants More Ad Dollars In Its Future
Almost two years after absorbing Lifetime Entertainment, A&E Television Networks is changing its name to A+E Networks and embracing a new tagline: "Life is entertaining." The huge cable programmer-owned by Walt Disney Co., Hearst and NBCUniversal-is also looking to communicate a broad range of capabilities, networks and platforms.
"At A+E Networks, we've been in the business of reinventing storytelling since 1984. We took history out of the history books and we brought biography to life. For our viewers, we've invented new genres, told inspiring stories and broken barriers," said Abbe Raven, president and CEO of A+E Networks. "For our partners, we offered new networks, new audiences and new ways for brands to connect to customers. We're not just program makers, we are cultural trailblazers. And with a powerful portfolio led by A&E, History and Lifetime, we are incredibly excited for our next chapter."
The new name is being introduced at the company's upfront event on May 4, which Demi Moore, Tracey Gold, Tim Gunn, Catherine Bell, Larry the Cable Guy and Brooke Elliott are expected to attend.
By removing "Television" from its name, the company hopes to emphasize that its brands-including A&E, History and Lifetime-exist beyond the tube. Using the Networks moniker also fits in with the way other companies in the industry identify themselves, such as MTV Networks and Scripps Networks. The company also has a redesigned logo, created by the New York agency Addiction. The A+E Networks name is designed to be a global entertainment brand, a brand that makes viewer say, "Oh, it's from A+E Networks, it must be good."
In the re-brand, A&E Networks is taking on this new mission statement: "Life is where we find our inspiration-where we look to find our stories, our characters and our ideas. At A+E Networks, we bring human stories to life, knowing that it is in life itself that those stories originate. We shine a light on both ordinary lives and our people so that they engage audiences across the globe. After all, life is entertaining, and entertainment is our life."
The re-brand also offers new mantras for the company's ad sales, distribution and international arms. Those goals include items such as embracing technology, taking more risk and proposing big innovative opportunities, and being a trusted partner.
-
The price of this change was cancelling a show that was well on it's way to change lives forever. Heavy on A&E was probably one of the most underpromoted shows that has such promise. Yet they yank the plug at the same time crushing the hopes and dreams of people who had no where left to turn.. Way to go corporate America..
Brandi W - 5/12/2011 12:36:56 PM EDT -
congratulations A+E networks--with catherine bell on your team you can't possibly go wrong---once
again congratulations--look forward to super results!!!!
joe g. saltamachia - 5/2/2011 4:19:13 PM EDT
No related content found.
-
No Top Articles
Featured Company
-
Digital Rapids
Digital Rapids provides market-leading software and hardware solutions, technology and expertise for transforming live and on-demand video to reach wider audiences on the latest viewing platforms more efficiently, more effectively and more profitably. Empowering applications from..more
VIEW ALL GALLERIES
