Hyperplay to take place at the Singapore Indoor Stadium on 4 and 5 August 2018

SINGAPORE, 13 APRIL 2018 – Riot Games, the videogame publisher behind the game League of Legends, played by 100 million players monthly, and youth entertainment brand MTV announced today the introduction of Hyperplay, the first integrated ASEAN esports and music festival. Hyperplay is presented by the Singapore Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY) and the National Youth Council (NYC) of Singapore, and will integrate the two biggest pop culture pillars of this generation, esports and music, into a weekend event at the Singapore Indoor Stadium.

Streaming live across the two-day ticketed event on Hyperplay.sg, with key segments broadcast live across South-East Asia, the first edition of Hyperplay will feature the first ever League of Legends ASEAN tournament with national teams from the 10 ASEAN countries. They will clash head-on in two days of intense League of Legends matches, where the victorious team will earn the title of ASEAN champion.

“Riot has been engaging in musical collaborations with great artists for years. A lot of gamers are also music fans, but it is exciting to see that a lot of talented musicians are also gamers, with whom we can create tailored music experiences within our game universe. With Hyperplay, we hope to deliver a great event that gaming fans will enjoy, and that an even broader audience will see it as an opportunity to discover the richness of the gaming culture,” said Johnson Yeh, Managing Director of Riot Games for Greater China and South-East Asia.

The esports tournament will share the stage with MTV Spotlight, comprised of four electrifying music performances by international, regional and local artists. The music performances will also be edited into a 60-minute “MTV Spotlight” special, which will premiere on 21 August on MTV in South-East Asia.

“The opportunity to collaborate with Riot Games is timely as esports is growing at a rapid pace in Singapore and across Southeast Asia. There is a natural synergy between esports and music and with MTV’s expertise in creating compelling music and pop culture experiences, we are amplifying the discovery of a new entertainment experience in the region. With Hyperplay, we are looking to connect with new audiences in the esports genre through a bespoke music platform featuring a diverse range of talents, and the distribution of music and esports content to a much wider audience base,” Paras Sharma, Senior Vice President of Southeast Asia, Viacom International Media Networks.

Further details of Hyperplay, including the artist line-up, will be announced in the run up to the event. Registration for the esports tournament will begin in the coming weeks, with qualifiers beginning in May. Tickets for the event go on sale in May.

NEWS UPDATES ON SOCIAL MEDIA
In the weeks ahead, fans can get direct information and news updates by following Hyperplay on Facebook.

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About the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth www.mccy.gov.sg
The Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth seeks to inspire Singaporeans through the arts and sports, strengthen community bonds, and promote volunteerism and philanthropy. Since its inception in November 2012, MCCY has been actively engaging the arts, heritage, sports, community and youth sectors.

The Ministry aims to bring into sharper focus the efforts to build a more cohesive and vibrant society, and to deepen a sense of identity and belonging to the nation. MCCY will work with its stakeholders to create an environment where Singaporeans can pursue their aspirations for a better quality of life and together, build a gracious and caring society we are proud to call home.

About the National Youth Council (全国青年理事会)
At NYC, we believe in a world where young people are respected and heard, and have the ability to influence and make a difference to the world. Together with our partners, we develop a dynamic and engaging environment where young people can realise their aspirations and play a part in making Singapore an endearing home for all.

About Riot Games
Riot Games was established in 2006 by entrepreneurial gamers who believe that player-focused game development can result in great games. Riot’s mission is to be the most player-focused company in the world.

About League of Legends
League of Legends is a fast-paced & skill based competitive online game. Two teams of powerful champions, each with a unique design and play-style, battle head-to-head across multiple battlefields and game modes. With an ever-expanding roster of champions, frequent updates and a thriving tournament scene, League of Legends offers endless replayability for players of every skill level. Over 100 million people globally play every month.

About MTV
MTV is the world’s biggest youth entertainment brand. With a global reach of nearly 785 million households, MTV is the cultural home of the millennial generation, music fans and artists, and a pioneer in creating innovative programming for young people. MTV reflects and creates pop culture with its award-winning content built around compelling storytelling, music discovery and activism across TV, online and mobile. Outside of the United States, MTV is part of Viacom International Media Networks, a division of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIAB, VIA), one of the world’s leading creators of programming and content across all platforms. For more information about MTV in Asia, visit www.mtvasia.com.

About Viacom International Media Networks
Viacom International Media Networks (VIMN), a unit of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIAB, VIA), is comprised of many of the world’s most popular multimedia entertainment brands, including MTV, MTV LIVE HD, Nickelodeon, Nick Jr., Comedy Central, Paramount Channel, and more. Viacom brands reach more than 3.8 billion cumulative subscribers in 180+ countries and territories via more than 200 locally programmed and operated TV channels and more than 550 digital media and mobile TV properties, in 40 languages. Keep up with VIMN news by visiting the VIMN PR Twitter feed at www.twitter.com/VIMN_PR. For more information about Viacom and its businesses, visit www.viacom.com, blog.viacom.com and the Viacom Twitter feed at www.twitter.com/Viacom.

Media Contact:
Veronica Foo
Community Manager
Riot Games
T: +65 9621 4323 | e : vfoo@riotgames.com

Adeline Ong
Senior Director, Corporate Communications, Asia
Viacom International Media Networks
t : +65 9366 7323 | e : adeline.ong@vimn.com

A record for peak concurrent viewers on Hotstar was established during the match between Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders; CDN powered by Akamai

MUMBAI/BANGALORE, India – April 12, 2018 – Hotstar, India’s largest premium video streaming platform, leveraged Akamai Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: AKAM), the world’s largest and most trusted cloud delivery platform, to set a global streaming record on the Akamai platform for the ongoing VIVO Indian Premier League held in India, for the match between the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on the 10th of April, 2018.

Viewership for the game peaked at 5.5 million concurrent viewers. This is the largest on the Akamai platform for any live sporting event in the world and the largest for any single event online by a broadcaster. This is ahead of the previous high on the Akamai platform of 4.8 million peak concurrent users, established by Hotstar during the India and Pakistan ICC Champions Trophy Final in June 20171. The concurrent viewership of VIVO IPL on Hotstar exceeded the peak viewership of 4.6 million for the streaming of the inauguration of U.S. President Donald Trump in January 2017.

The Vivo IPL experience on Hotstar has been reimagined to be leagues ahead of the sports experience on any platform in the world, with features like Watch’NPlay, a game that tests the viewers’ cricket smarts as they watch a match, as well as VR and social features, that make the experience more immersive than ever before.

“Crossing 5 million on a live sporting event is like breaking the 10-second barrier in the 100 meter dash. We are proud that we are the first to get here. But, of even more importance, we are excited that fans have embraced the immersive sports experience on Hotstar that has brought together live streaming, the expression of fan emotions and an interactive always-on game. This is the future of video online and we are excited to shape it. At this scale, we will be clearly testing the ability of different parts of the Internet to keep up with the dramatic growth in fan followership. And, we are delighted that Akamai has been a partner that has always walked in step with our ambitions and delivered the scale that we seek,” said Ajit Mohan, CEO, Hotstar.

“Hotstar is one of the pioneers in the live streaming industry in India, and has changed the way hundreds of millions of people consume content. With the hyper growth of mobile-first users, it’s important that platforms catering to them factor in the right technology to provide an experience that rivals, if not supersedes, a traditional broadcast experience. Akamai’s partnership with Hotstar has changed how people enjoy a variety of content ranging from general entertainment to live sports anytime, anywhere and on any device,” said Parimal Pandya, Vice President, Media, APJ, Akamai Technologies.

Vivo IPL, in its eleventh edition this year, started on 7th April and is a 60 day tournament that will conclude on 27th May. The tournament is streaming live on Hotstar in six languages, including Tamil, Telugu, Bengali, Kannada, Hindi and English.

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About Hotstar
Hotstar is India’s largest premium streaming platform with more than 100,000 hours of drama and movies in 9 languages, and coverage of every major global sporting event. Launched in early 2015, it is one of India’s most downloaded apps and has attracted more than 350 million followers on the back of a highly evolved video streaming technology and high attention to quality of experience across devices and platforms. Hotstar has appropriated top spots on the Google Play Store as well as the Apple App Store, and been named among the most popular apps of 2017 on both platforms.

For media queries, please contact:
Tricia Silveira, Text100: +91 9763554484, tricia.silveira@text100.co.in
Meherwan Dadachanji, Text100: +91 7045488422, meherwan.dadachanji@text100.co.in
Anmol Pandya, Text100: +91 9930749772, anmol.pandya@text100.co.in

About Akamai
As the world’s largest and most trusted cloud delivery platform, Akamai makes it easier for its customers to provide the best and most secure digital experiences on any device, anytime, anywhere. Akamai’s massively distributed platform is unparalleled in scale with over 200,000 servers across 130 countries, giving customers superior performance and threat protection. Akamai’s portfolio of web and mobile performance, cloud security, enterprise access, and video delivery solutions are supported by exceptional customer service and 24/7 monitoring. To learn why the top financial institutions, e-commerce leaders, media & entertainment providers, and government organizations trust Akamai please visit www.akamai.com, blogs.akamai.com, or @Akamai on Twitter.

Contacts:
Hyacinths Pennefather
Akamai Technologies
hpennefa@akamai.com

Sandeep Deb Varman
20:20 MSL
sandeep.varman@2020msl.com

BBC Studios today announced a deal with Orient International (Holding) Co. Ltd that will see the Asia premiere of Oceans: Our Blue Planet, a Giant Screen film version of Blue Planet II, in China. This deal includes the exclusive distribution rights to both 2D Dome and 3D Giant Screen formats of the film in China.

The Asia premiere of Oceans: Our Blue Planet will be held in the China Science and Technology Museum based in Beijing, China, on 15 April 2018.

Produced by long-time collaborators BBC Earth and OceanX Media, Oceans: Our Blue Planet takes audiences on a global odyssey into the largest and least-explored habitat on Earth. Featuring OceanX’s research vessel, the Alucia, the film is directed by Mark Brownlow (Blue Planet II, Tiny Giants) and Rachel Butler (Blue Planet II, Shark), and narrated by Kate Winslet (Titanic, Revolutionary Road, Snow Bears). The Chinese version is narrated by well-known dubbing talent Ji Guanlin, who has dubbed for both local and international stars including Jennifer Lawrence in Hunger Games and Anne Hathaway in Alice Through The Looking Glass.

Kelvin Yau, GM, Greater China, BBC Studios commented: “In the last two years, we have seen BBC’s natural history content gaining huge traction in China. BBC’s blue chip natural history titles, Planet Earth II, Blue Planet II and the BBC Earth film, Earth: One Amazing Day have all been extremely successful with audiences in China. We hope that this larger than life, immersive experience of the 2D Dome and 3D Giant Screen formats will enhance and extend the experience of our premium natural history content.”

“We are very pleased to once again partner BBC Studios to launch Oceans: Our Blue Planet in China. We pride ourselves on delivering quality content for science and technology museums across China, and BBC Earth’s premium natural history content is a natural fit for us. We are excited for the premiere of Oceans: Our Blue Planet and hope that families and school groups will visit the museums to learn more about our watery worlds.” said Ji Sheng Jun, Vice President of Orient International (Holding) Co. Ltd.

Other BBC Earth Giant Screen films that have been licensed to Orient for distribution are Tiny Giants and Earthflight, of which the latter was recently distributed to another two science and technology museums in Daqing and Liaoning. Each film is 40 minutes long and will run between six months and a year in cities in China including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Hangzhou, Shenyang and Hefei, as well as Hong Kong.

-Ends-

For more information, please contact:

Jeanne Leong
BBC Studios
Tel: +65 6849 5292
Email: Jeanne.Leong@bbc.com

Jessie Lim
BBC Studios
Tel: +65 6849 5295
Email: Jessie.Lim@bbc.com

About BBC Studios
BBC Studios, a global content company with British creativity at its heart, is a commercial subsidiary of the BBC Group. Formed in April 2018 by the merger of BBC Worldwide and BBC Studios, it spans content financing, development, production, sales, branded services and ancillaries. BBC Studios’ award-winning British programmes are internationally recognised across a broad range of genres and specialisms. It has offices in 22 markets globally, including six production bases in the UK and production bases and partnerships in a further nine countries around the world. The company, which makes 2500 hours of content a year, is a champion for British creativity around the world and a committed partner for the UK’s independent sector. BBC Studios has revenue of £1.4bn, and returns around £200m to the BBC Group annually, complementing the BBC’s licence fee and enhancing programmes for UK audiences.

About BBC Earth

BBC Earth is a global portfolio brand that invites audiences everywhere to engage with the wonders of our universe. We bring amazing premium content, television and experiences to the world, across multiple platforms including branded channels, live events, digital & social media, AR/VR, theatrical releases for cinema & giant screen films, and consumer products. We believe that celebrating and connecting with our world is more important than ever, across nature, science, space and the human race. Along with our partners we are continually innovating to find new stories and experiences to bring insight, enlightenment and fresh perspectives to inspire us to think and feel differently about our world. From the epic to the everyday, BBC Earth brings you face to face with heart-pounding action, mind-blowing ideas and the sheer wonder of being part of this amazing planet we call home. BBC Earth is a commercial and global consumer brand managed by BBC Worldwide outside of the UK.

About OceanX Media

OceanX Media is a nonprofit media company whose aim is to create groundbreaking media rooted in cutting-edge science that inspires global awareness about the beauty, complexity and fragility of the ocean and its inhabitants. Founded by Creative Director Mark Dalio, OceanX Media partners with leading broadcasters, research institutions, conservation organizations and other production companies to chronicle open expeditions aboard the Alucia research vessel. As an innovative media platform leveraging scientific research and ocean exploration, OceanX Media creates content spanning short-form, broadcast, IMAX and 360-degree virtual reality to galvanize the global audience toward greater stewardship of the world’s oceans. OceanX Media is the media arm of OceanX, an initiative of the Dalio Foundation. For more information, visit www.OceanX.org.

Paris, 12 April 2018 – Eutelsat Communications (Euronext Paris: ETL), one of the world’s leading satellite operators, today announced that the NASA High Definition (NTV-3) and NASA Ultra High Definition (NTV-4) channels are broadcasting in free-to-air via satellite for the first time across Europe, the Middle East, North Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa.

Viewers from across these regions can now enjoy exceptional images from the U.S. space programme, including coverage of launches, life on-board the International Space Station, Earth views from space, deep space exploration, the solar system, Mars, replay of NASA classics such as the Apollo programme, and documentaries on NASA’s latest R&D work.
• NASA TV HD is transmitted free-to-air from the popular HOTBIRD video neighbourhood at 13° East for viewers in Europe, the Middle East and North Africa, and via the 7° East video neighbourhood for viewers in Sub-Saharan Africa.
• NASA TV UHD is also broadcast on the HOTBIRD and 7° East video neighbourhoods, as well as the FRANSAT TV platform via the EUTELSAT 5 West A satellite, for subscribers equipped with an Ultra HD-compatible TV set*. The channel, produced by Harmonic, leverages Harmonic’s latest Ultra HD end-to-end media processing and delivery technologies, with image resolution levels four times higher than standard HD.

Eutelsat is the first satellite operator to make NASA TV channels accessible to a large and rapidly growing audience base across Europe, the Middle East, North Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa. Offering an unequalled viewing experience, the addition of NASA TV UHD underlines the continuous expansion of Ultra HD content transmitted via Eutelsat’s fleet of satellites.

* Viewers must be equipped with a recent 4K Ultra HD TV set with an integrated satellite tuner certified by FRANSAT, as well as a CI+ CAM module.

How to receive the channels

• NASA TV UHD (NTV-4) – 4k UHD, HEVC encoding

From HOTBIRD (13° East)
Frequency: 11373 MHz
Horizontal polarization, DVB-S2, 8PSK, FEC 3/4
Symbol rate: 27500

From EUTELSAT 7B (7° East)
Frequency: 10887 MHz
Horizontal polarization, DVB-S2, QPSK, FEC 4/5
Symbol rate: 30000

From EUTELSAT 5 West A (5° West)
FRANSAT
Frequency: 12732 MHz
Vertical polarization, DVB-2, 8PSK, FEC 3/4
Symbol rate: 29950

• NASA TV HD (NTV-3) – MPEG-4 encoding

From HOTBIRD (13° East)
Frequency: 11373 MHz
Horizontal polarization, DVB-S2, 8PSK, FEC 3/4
Symbol rate: 27500

From EUTELSAT 7B (7° East)
Frequency: 10887 MHz
Horizontal polarization, DVB-S2, QPSK, FEC 4/5
Symbol rate: 30000

About Eutelsat Communications

Founded in 1977, Eutelsat Communications is one of the world’s leading satellite operators. With a global fleet of satellites and associated ground infrastructure, Eutelsat enables clients across Video, Data, Government, Fixed and Mobile Broadband markets to communicate effectively to their customers, irrespective of their location. Over 6,800 television channels operated by leading media groups are broadcast by Eutelsat to one billion viewers equipped for DTH reception or connected to terrestrial networks. Headquartered in Paris, with offices and teleports around the globe, Eutelsat assembles 1,000 men and women from 44 countries who are dedicated to delivering the highest quality of service.

Eutelsat Communications is listed on the Euronext Paris Stock Exchange (ticker: ETL).

For more about Eutelsat go to www.eutelsat.com

Press
Marie-Sophie Ecuer Tel: + 33 1 53 98 37 91 mecuer@eutelsat.com
Christina Darvasi Tel: +52 55 2629 5847 cdarvasi@eutelsat.com

Investors and analysts
Joanna Darlington Tel. : +33 1 53 98 35 30 jdarlington@eutelsat.com
Cédric Pugni Tel. : +33 1 53 98 35 30 cpugni@eutelsat.com

Irdeto introduces first-of-its-kind technology that now combines support for JPEG 2000 in Interoperable Master Format into its scalable distributor watermarking solution

LAS VEGAS, NAB – 10 April 2018 – As content owners and distributors continue to address consumer demand for premium content, Interoperable Master Format (IMF) is becoming an increasingly popular exchange format for 4K and HDR assets. While this format has helped OTT providers and pay TV operators reduce costs and complexity associated with distributing premium content, pirates have also evolved their piracy strategies to steal valuable assets. To address piracy challenges, Irdeto has introduced an industry-first feature set into its scalable distributor watermarking solution. Irdeto TraceMark™ forensic watermarking now provides content owners with support for JPEG 2000 (J2K) in IMF exchange formats to help prevent theft of premium 4K and HDR content.

With Irdeto TraceMark now supporting J2K in IMF, content owners are able to keep one master version of the content and send out individually watermarked versions of the content on-the-fly with no delay to distributors. As a result, content owners no longer need to transcode individual copies, reducing the use of storage space and preparation time before distributing content. The solution also offers the ability distribute high-quality content at scale in individually watermarked form, provides post-encode benefits that eliminate the need for custom watermarking plugins and operates independently of encoders, requiring zero integration so it can be deployed immediately. TraceMark is also the first to fully integrate distributor watermarking with Aspera’s FASP® transfer technology.

“One thing is for certain, if pirates want to get their hands on premium content, they will alter their tactics in order to find a weak point in a content owner’s anti-piracy strategy,” said Pete Cossack, Vice President of Cybersecurity Services at Irdeto. “To combat pirates, we recognize the importance of continually innovating in order to enhance anti-piracy strategies. With our industry-first J2K in IMF watermarking solution, we are adding yet another layer of defense to help content owners and distributors protect premium 4K and HDR content. Supporting IMF exchange formats is the type of innovative functionality needed to help content owners stay one step ahead of pirates.”

Offered as a key solution in the Irdeto Piracy Control suite, Irdeto TraceMark forensic watermarking provides the industry’s widest support for file formats and codecs, including XDCAM, HD50, ProRes, AVC, HEVC and now J2K in IMF. The solution provides content owners with deeper insight into the actual origin of pirated content, allowing content owners to make informed decisions based on correct data rather than what was purported based on file name or other characteristics. Irdeto’s team of multi-discipline specialists and its proven methodology has a successful track record in rapidly identifying content theft, disrupting piracy and leveraging its established networks to track down pirates and their supply chains.

To learn more about Irdeto TraceMark forensic watermarking, please visit: https://resources.irdeto.com/piracy-control/datasheet-irdeto-tracemark-forensic-watermarking-distributor-watermarking-for-content-owners-sports-rights-holders

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About Irdeto
Irdeto is the world leader in digital platform security, protecting platforms and applications for media & entertainment, connected transport and IoT connected industries. Our solutions and services enable customers to protect their revenue, create new offerings and fight cybercrime. With nearly 50 years of expertise in security, Irdeto’s software security technology and cyber services protect over 5 billion devices and applications for some of the world’s best-known brands. Our unique heritage as a subsidiary of multinational media group Naspers (JSE: NPN) means that we are a well-established and reliable partner to help build a more secure future. Please visit Irdeto at www.irdeto.com.

For further information, please contact:

Stephen Russell
Global Manager, Public Relations, Irdeto
Mobile: +1 774 273 3890
Email: Stephen.Russell@irdeto.com

Crystal Kung
Senior Account Manager, WE Communications
P: +65 6303 8472
Email: ckung@we-worldwide.com

Latest deployment of NexGuard watermarking technology allows KT Skylife to meet MovieLabs requirements while giving subscribers access to the best content and safeguarding against piracy

Cheseaux-sur Lausanne, Switzerland, and Phoenix (AZ), USA – April 5, 2018 – NAGRA, a Kudelski Group (SIX:KUD.S) company and the world’s leading independent provider of content protection and multiscreen television solutions, today announced that its NexGuard watermarking solution for pay-TV was selected by Korean satellite broadcaster KT Skyylife.

This partnership allows KT Skylife – a NAGRA customer since 2010 – to meet forensic watermarking requirements mandated by MovieLabs’ Enhanced Content Protection for premium content, including 4K Ultra HD and HDR. The expansion also gives KT Skylife’s subscribers access to the best content available, while protecting their service from piracy.

By expanding its partnership with NAGRA, KT Skylife can now leverage NexGuard watermarking technology to meet studio requirements for the protection of high-value content. The additional ability to expand KT Skylife content offering and increase the value of their services to their subscribers provides a competitive advantage for KT Skylife moving forward.

“Our unique watermarking capabilities provide KT Skylife with the added security and traceability for pay-TV provides to meet content owners’ requirements for the protection of premium content, and deter would-be pirates,” said Stephane Le Dreau, Senior Vice President Sales & Services APAC at NAGRA. “With NAGRA content protection and watermarking, KT Skylife is now able to create the ultimate closed-loop approach to fighting piracy while ensuring access to the best content available for their subscribers.”

NAGRA’s NexGuard forensic watermarking technology adds a unique, invisible identifier to video content delivered to set-top boxes, smart TVs and other video players enables each device. It embeds a unique watermark for any video shown, making it the only way to tracing illicit re-distribution back to a specific account. The watermark remains with the content, even in the case of transcoding, resizing, downscaling, camcording or any other alteration.

NAGRA Anti-Piracy Services and NexGuard watermarking solution will be demonstrated on the NAGRA stand, SU3424, at NAB 2018 in Las Vegas (9-12 April 2018).

About NAGRA
NAGRA, a digital TV division of the Kudelski Group (SIX:KUD.S), provides security and multiscreen user experience solutions for the monetization of digital media. The company provides content providers and DTV operators worldwide with secure, open and integrated platforms and applications over broadcast, broadband and mobile platforms, enabling compelling and personalized viewing experiences. Please visit dtv.nagra.com for more information and follow us on Twitter at @nagrakudelski.

Contacts
Ivan Schnider
Marketing Communications
+41 21 732 09 40
ivan.schnider@nagra.com

Anita Pang
Marketing Communications
+65 6829 0811
anita.pang@nagra.com

The two-year partnership takes the Dove Self-Esteem Project, the world’s largest provider of self-esteem education, to a scale never-seen-before

April 4, 2018 – Dove announces a two-year global partnership with Cartoon Network’s Steven Universe to educate young people on body confidence through the cartoon’s themes of inclusivity and empowerment, conveyed through its world and characters – going directly to them in a medium they know and love, something that has never been done before.

This pioneering collaboration comes from the Dove Self-Esteem Project which has been helping young people build self-esteem and body confidence through educational programmes since 2004. The project is based on the knowledge that over half of girls do not have high body confidence, leading them to avoid spending time with friends and family, put their health at risk and opt-out of important life events. The Dove Self-Esteem Project exists in 140 countries around the world is committed to reaching 40 million young people by 2020 through its existing educational programmes; and with the help of Steven Universe, will now reach 20 million more, including in Asia Pacific.

Using a public health intervention model, the Dove Self-Esteem Project will expand beyond structured workshops delivered by adults to taking educational content direct to young people on a scale never-seen before. And in the case of the project’s partnership with Cartoon Network, this will be Steven Universe’s young viewers to positively impact their self-esteem and body confidence.

The partnership will come to life in a series of six short animated films directed by Steven Universe creator Rebecca Sugar, the first of which premieres today in the US, and in Australia and New Zealand on April 7, and in the Philippines on April 23. Working with the Dove Self-Esteem Project, all content has been carefully co-created and grounded in scientific evidence by body image expert, Dr Phillippa Diedrichs at the Centre for Appearance Research at the University of the West of England, in order to make a meaningful impact on a young person’s self-esteem and body confidence.

Later this year, an original song featuring the cast of the show, an accompanying music video, and an educational eBook will also be launched adding to the Dove Self-Esteem Project’s commitment to create a media landscape for young people that is inclusive by acknowledging every person’s uniqueness and representing true diversity.

“We are passionate about evolving the types of messages the next generation are receiving through media, which is why we are working side by side with partners to take the programme to the next level. We are introducing new tools to enable us to reach even more young people with content that not only educates but also entertains. By partnering with Cartoon Network and Rebecca Sugar we are able to create new ways to make a real impact towards our mission of helping young people build positive body confidence and self-esteem.”

Research shows that children’s media can be a powerful source of influence on young viewers’ body image and emotional intelligence, with carefully designed inclusive content creating more positive attitudes and behaviours towards their own health and others.

“The partnership creates content that tackles topics identified in scientific research as key influences on young people’s body confidence, and delivers it in an engaging and fun way.”

Critically acclaimed, Steven Universe is the first animated series on Cartoon Network to be created by a woman. A global pop culture phenomenon recognized for its overall themes of inclusivity, empathy and relatability, the show is inspired by Rebecca’s friendship and close relationship with her younger brother Steven.

“Cartoons are a powerful medium when it comes to empathy and understanding, which is why my team and I take great care with Steven Universe to reflect real issues that affect our audience,” says Rebecca.

SEE THE FIRST OF SIX ANIMATED SHORTS BELOW!

For more information, contact:
James Moore +852 3128 3720 James.Moore@turner.com

MUMBAI, April 4, 2018: With just 3 days for the gripping cricketing action-entertainment of the much anticipated VIVO IPL 2018 to begin, Star India has unveiled yet another feisty campaign; this time, it’s the ‘Best vs Best’ narrative that stokes passion of the fans around the high-octane action promised highly awaited opening clash on Saturday, April 7th at 8 pm between current champions Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings that return after two editions. This match and all the matches will be aired on the Star Sports bouquet (Star Sports 1 English, Star Sports 1 HD English, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 1 HD Hindi, Star Sports 1 Tamil, Star Sports 1 Select SD English, Star Sports 1 Select HD English), Suvarna Plus, Star Maa Movies, Jalsha Movies and live streamed on Hotstar in India, US & Canada.

The narrative of the latest campaign created by the Star Sports creative team rekindles the greatest rivalry of IPL between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings, which amongst them have won 5 IPL trophies out of the total ten leagues organized so far. The campaign drives a gritty face-off between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings in an opening encounter that promises great action with some of the best players in the VIVO IPL 2018.

What is already fuelling fan frenzy is that VIVO IPL 2018 is set to witness Chennai Super King’s return under the iconic MS Dhoni’s leadership, after a two-year absence. The fact that these fierce rivals, who have clashed in 3 of 8 past finals, will square up for the opening game of the VIVO IPL 2018, will give a dream start to the single largest event. The film, driven by a catchy, clever script, gives strident voice to the fanatic support of fans of Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians, with each side throwing the gauntlet at the other, confident that their team will crush their rivals in the opening match.

Gayatri Yadav, President Consumer Strategy & Innovation, Star India, said, “With just five days for the Vivo-IPL 2018’s mega cricketing extravaganza to go live, our latest campaign around the MI-CSK opener will intensify the expectations and enthusiasm of not just their fans but all other passion-cricket entertainment lovers too. This film, which is an extension of our Best v/s Best campaign, builds upon the intense anticipation of everyone waiting for this thrilling contest to start the Vivo IPL 2018.”

“With the combined power of digital and television and a first-ever six-language presentation including, Star Sports Tamil for CSK fans who have waited patiently for two long years for their heroes’ comeback, we are confident our presentation of the Vivo-IPL 2018 will deliver never-before fan experience,” Yadav said,

Rahul Johri, CEO, BCCI, said “The IPL is the biggest and widely followed cricketing properties in the world. Over the years, each of the franchisees has developed a strong and loyal fan following, globally. The opening game between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings will serve as the perfect start to the action-packed season. The latter will be returning after 2 years amidst much hype and celebration and led by none other than MS Dhoni while the former is a three-time champion and one of the most consistent T20 teams. The latest campaign brings forth the true spirit of the IPL, bringing enthusiasm levels to an all-time high, prior to the start of the biggest league in the world.”

Star India will broadcast live matches of the league in 6 languages – Hindi, English, Tamil, Telugu, Bengali and Kannada on its broadcast network. The VIVO IPL will also be beamed LIVE in these 6 languages on Hotstar.

Watch the video here: https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia/status/980343058939047936

YouTube Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0-xwTI8MKO8

Promo Link: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1342KcGu78hkJ1VFybcDsRFBSXg4Ys4dm

The newly created BBC Studios officially launched today (3rd April 2018), heralding a new chapter for the BBC’s content creation and exploitation activities.

In an environment of increasing competition for viewers, the merger of BBC Worldwide and BBC Studios brings the BBC Group into line with the rest of the industry and ensures the creative and commercial success of the organisation. BBC Studios will see content through the full life cycle of development, commissioning, production and co-production, sales and distribution and will underpin the creation of new BBC-owned IP.

The newly formed BBC Studios will build on the unique heritage and global success of both organisations, with British creativity and outstanding content forming the cornerstone of the company.

Leading a staff of around 3000 and overseeing an annual turnover of £1.4bn, Tim Davie, Chief Executive Officer and Mark Linsey, Chief Creative Officer officially assumed their new roles today and unveiled the organisation’s new vision, purpose and strategy.

And following last month’s announcement to set up a production office in Sydney, Australia, BBC Studios is developing new production opportunities in Beijing, China. Award-winning executive producer Matthew Springford, who has over 20 years’ experience in factual programme-making, will be based at the BBC office in Beijing alongside the BBC Studios’ distribution team and will be working with Chinese TV stations and digital platforms to co-develop and co-produce original content and new formats across all factual genres.

Tim Davie, CEO, BBC Studios, said: “BBC Studios exists to inspire audiences globally, strengthening the BBC financially and creatively, working with the very best British talent. Bringing together the UK’s most awarded production business, a world-class content sales business, our unique portfolio of brands, and a network of premium indie partners, BBC Studios has what it takes to create and export quality British programmes in this new age of content.”

Mark Linsey, CCO, BBC Studios, said: “Today is an important and exciting day for the BBC. For me, it’s all about BBC Studios’ outstanding creativity and the brilliant programmes that we and our indie partners make, so it’s even more thrilling that I can announce today that Shakespeare & Hathaway, our break-out daytime drama hit, has been recommissioned.”

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NOTES TO EDITORS:

BBC Studios, a global content company with British creativity at its heart, is a commercial subsidiary of the BBC Group. Formed in April 2018 by the merger of BBC Worldwide and BBC Studios, it spans content financing, development, production, sales, branded services and ancillaries. BBC Studios’ award-winning British programmes are internationally recognised across a broad range of genres and specialisms. It has offices in 22 markets globally, including six production bases in the UK, and a further seven wholly-owned and production partnerships internationally. The company, which makes 2,500 hours of content a year, is a champion for British creativity around the world and a committed partner for the UK’s independent sector. BBC Studios has revenue of £1.4bn, and returns around £200m to the BBC Group annually, complementing the BBC’s licence fee and enhancing programmes for UK audiences.

Commissioning announcement
http://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/latestnews/2018/shakespeare-and-hathaway

Matthew Springford
Matthew Springford is an award-winning executive producer, series producer and producer/director. With over 20 years’ experience in factual television, his work includes documentaries, specialist factual, science and history. Working exclusively for the BBC for over 12 years, he has overseen many of the BBC’s flagship arts strands including The Culture Show, Artsnight and Imagine. His recent credits include An Art Lovers’ Guide, Handmade by Royal Appointment, and The Art of Japanese Life. In 2013 he produced and directed a feature documentary on the Chinese pianist Lang Lang – Do or Die: Lang Lang’s Story – which followed the pianist on a tour across China, America and Europe.

(HONG KONG) March 28, 2018 – Turner Asia Pacific has appointed Vikram Sharma Vice President of Cartoon Network Enterprises (CNE), its regional licensing and merchandising division.

Joining Turner in March, Mr Sharma is tasked with driving sales across the whole region for its branded toys, apparel, home entertainment, publishing and lifestyle products, as well as live events and themed entertainment. Major franchises and IP under CNE’s management from the Cartoon Network portfolio of shows including Ben 10, We Bare Bears, Adventure Time, The Amazing World of Gumball and The Powerpuff Girls, as well as Adult Swim’s Rick and Morty.

His remit also includes the management of Tuzki, the digital IP and emoticon of choice in China and beyond. In South Asia, Turner acts as a representative for Warner Bros. Consumer Products.

Ricky Ow, President of Turner Asia Pacific, said: “The potential of the CNE business is immense and with Vikram leading the charge, we know it can be realised. We are incredibly pleased to have attracted someone with his track record and have high hopes that fans of our amazing IP and franchises will have products that match their passion.”

EMEA President Giorgio Stock, who also spearheads Cartoon Network Enterprises for Turner internationally, will work closely with the CNE team in Asia Pacific to maintain consistency and strategic direction for the business outside of the US.

Before joining Turner, Mr Sharma held various key positions in Disney across Asia including Singapore and India. He’s a proven commercial leader with successful stints in overall P&L management and in different aspects of sales and distribution, with a special focus on retail and franchise monetization. Most recently he led Disney’s consumer products business in Thailand, a key location for Turner’s CNE business.

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For more information, please contact:
James Moore, Director of Communications, Turner Asia Pacific
James.Moore@turner.com
Tel: +852 3128-3720

About Cartoon Network Enterprises
Cartoon Network Enterprises (CNE), the licensing and merchandising arm of Turner Asia Pacific, is responsible for building world-class licensing programs across its franchises including The Powerpuff Girls, Ben 10, Adventure Time, We Bare Bears, The Amazing World of Gumball and Rick and Morty, as well as other Cartoon Network and Adult Swim originals. CNE connects with millions of Cartoon Network fans through consumer and home entertainment products, promotional licensing, interactive games, publishing and live events.

Turner also owns Tuzki, the digital IP for a new generation. And in South Asia, Turner represents the Warner Bros. Consumer Products business, managing world-famous IP such as Batman, Superman, Tom and Jerry, and Looney Tunes.

The CNE team works closely with Turner’s location-based entertainment department in Hong Kong, which oversees licensed projects such as the Cartoon Network Amazone waterpark in Thailand, the cruise liner, Cartoon Network Wave, and Amaazia theme park in India.

About Turner Asia Pacific
Turner Asia Pacific creates and distributes award-winning brands throughout the region, running 63 channels in 14 languages in 42 countries. These include CNN International, CNNj, CNN, HLN, Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, Boomerang, POGO, Toonami, Warner TV, Oh!K, TNT, TCM Turner Classic Movies, truTV, MondoTV, TABI Channel, Tabi Tele, Mondo Mah-Jong TV, and HBO, HBO HD and WB in South Asia. Turner manages the business of Pay- and Free-TV-channels, as well as Internet-based services, and oversees commercial partnerships with various third-party media ventures; it teams with Warner Bros. and HBO to leverage Time Warner’s global reach. Turner Broadcasting System Asia Pacific, Inc. (“Turner Asia Pacific”) is a Time Warner company.