Hong Kong (February 9, 2017) – Celestial Tiger Entertainment (CTE), operator of the largest bouquet of pan-Asian channels dedicated to Asian entertainment, announced today its appointment of Vanessa Parmisano as Director, Advertising Sales for the Philippines. Parmisano will be charged with growing CTE’s advertising sales business in the Philippines, specifically for its channels KIX and Thrill. She will report to Andy Chang, Senior Vice President, Advertising Sales, Marketing and Original Productions.

“We are really glad to have Vanessa on board. She has demonstrated an ability to drive sales and build solid relationships with agencies and brands. The ratings for KIX and Thrill have been growing rapidly in the Philippines and KIX is a Top 20 pay channel in this market [1].  Vanessa is the ideal person to capitalize on this growth,” said Chang.

“I am ready to get into action with the Tiger Team and establish Celestial Tiger Entertainment channel brands as the preferred platforms for advertisers. I will continue to work closely with our media partners to deliver results that will further drive their brand engagement. There is much to be done, and I look forward to building the company’s advertising business in the Philippines,” said Parmisano.

Prior to joining CTE, Parmisano served as Manager, Airtime Sales & Partnerships at Fox Networks Group. At Fox, Parmisano was responsible for advertising sales focused on key agency accounts for the network’s eight channels. Before joining Fox, Parmisano was Senior Account Manager, Advertising Sales for Media5 Marketing Corporation, where she focused on an integrated approach for multi-platform advertising sales for TV5. At Media 5, she closed several major deals and added key advertisers to TV5’s client list.

The ratings for CTE channels KIX and Thrill have been growing in leaps and bounds in the Philippines. Last year, KIX and Thrill recorded an increase of 143% and 165% respectively in their average channel viewership versus 2015, and both channels also hit their highest viewership ever in December 2016 [2]. KIX was the second most-watched regional English general entertainment channel [3] and Thrill was the fifth most-watched regional movie channel [4] during the second half of 2016 in the Philippines.

– END –

Source:

Kantar Media (National Philippines). C&S 20+; whole day; rankings are based on average audience.

[1] 2H 2016, across all cable & satellite channels

[2] Since data availability in Jun 2012; monthly audience.

[3] 2H 2016; Regional English GE channels (incl. AXN, DIVA UNIVERSAL, E!, FOX, FOX CRIME, HITS, KIX, LIFETIME, RTL-CBS, SONY CHANNEL, STAR WORLD, SYFY, TRU TV, UNIVERSAL CHANNEL, WARNER TV)

[4] 2H 2016; Regional movie channels (incl. AMC, CEC, CCM, CINEMAX, FOX FAMILY MOVIES, HBO, HBO FAMILY, HBO HITS, HBO SIGNATURE, SCREEN RED, STAR CHINESE MOVIES, STAR GOLD, STAR MOVIES, TCM, THRILL)

 Media Contact:

Pauline Poon

Celestial Tiger Entertainment

T: 852 2239 6131

E: pauline.poon@celestialtiger.com

About Celestial Tiger Entertainment

CELESTIAL TIGER ENTERTAINMENT (CTE) is a leading independent media company dedicated to entertaining audiences in Asia and beyond. The company creates and distributes branded pay television channels and services targeted at Asian consumers.
CTE operates a powerful bouquet of distinct pay television services including: CELESTIAL MOVIES, the premier 24-hour first-run Chinese movie channel in Asia and beyond; CELESTIAL CLASSIC MOVIES, the world’s most-widely distributed Chinese movie channel with an unparalleled array of Chinese movie masterpieces; CELESTIAL MOVIES PINOY, the Chinese movie channel that is programmed, dubbed and promoted specifically to Filipino viewers; cHK, the Chinese entertainment channel offering the latest Hong Kong and other Asian blockbuster movies, alongside highly-anticipated Chinese dramas and series; KIX, the ultimate destination for action entertainment; KIX 360, the dedicated Over-The-Top (OTT) linear feed for KIX; MIAO MI, the Mandarin “Edutainment” channel created for preschool kids across Asia; THRILL, Asia’s only regional horror, thriller and suspense movie channel; and THRILL 360, the dedicated Over-The-Top (OTT) linear feed for THRILL.  All of CTE’s channel brands are available as linear, on-demand and over-the-top services.  CTE also produces original production for its bouquet of channels.

Headquartered in Hong Kong, CTE’s majority shareholders are Saban Capital Group, a leading private investment firm specializing in the media, entertainment and communications industries; Celestial Pictures, a diversified Asian entertainment company owned by Astro Overseas Limited; and Lionsgate, the world’s largest independent filmed entertainment studio.

For more information, please visit www.celestialtiger.com

Hong Kong, 7 February 2017 – Asia Satellite Telecommunications Company Limited (AsiaSat), Asia’s leading satellite operator, has extended an occasional use (OU) service agreement with Globecast, the global solutions provider for media.

As a longtime customer of AsiaSat, Globecast’s affiliates in Asia, Europe and from around the world use the comprehensive C and Ku-band capacity across AsiaSat’s fleet for the distribution of news content and sports events for their clients who are major international broadcast networks and premium sports right holders.

AsiaSat 5’s strong penetration into the Asian TV market and wide global C-band footprint make it the most popular satellite for OU service in the region, serving the entire Asia-Pacific in a single beam. The service provides Globecast unmatched coverage of live sports including the AFC soccer events, golf tournaments, Asian Beach Games, Baseball World Cup as well as broadcasting live news events such as the ASEAN summit.

AsiaSat has maintained a close partnership with Globecast for over 15 years, with AsiaSat 5 providing a primarily HD delivery of OU service to its customers, alongside transmission solutions from Globecast such as its one-stop service that offers global coverage for SNG and turnaround capabilities for TV distribution service.

Francis Rolland, EVP Satellites & Strategic Projects of Globecast, said, “There is a trend to deliver bigger and better coverage of large events each year. And Globecast confirms once again its role as a key player for the transmission and distribution of the world’s greatest sporting events by renewing our partnership with AsiaSat to keep providing a one-stop service including satellite capacity and uplinking over Asia.”

Barrie Woolston, Chief Commercial Officer of AsiaSat, said, “I am very pleased that Globecast has chosen AsiaSat as a long-term partner to provide high-quality, tailored broadcast and content delivery solutions to its clients. I look forward to bringing even more value to this strong partnership that enables excellent distribution of content across the Asia Pacific.”

-The End-

About Globecast

Part of the Orange Group, Globecast provides agile and seamless content acquisition, management and distribution services globally. The company constantly innovates in an evolving IP-centric environment to provide reliable and secure customer solutions.  Globecast has created the number one global hybrid fiber and satellite network for video contribution and distribution. This network enables multiplatform delivery including TV Everywhere OTT, satellite, cable, video on demand, CDN delivery as well as cloud-enabled media services. The company remains the trusted partner for coverage and international delivery of news, sports, and special events around the globe. Customers enjoy a seamless global experience on the ground from 12 interconnected Globecast owned facilities, including Los Angeles, London, Singapore, Paris, Rome, and Johannesburg. www.globecast.com

About AsiaSat

Asia Satellite Telecommunications Company Limited (AsiaSat), the leading satellite operator in Asia, serves over two-thirds of the world’s population with its six satellites, AsiaSat 3S, AsiaSat 4, AsiaSat 5, AsiaSat 6, AsiaSat 7 and AsiaSat 8. The AsiaSat satellite fleet serves both the broadcast and telecommunications industries. Over 700 television and radio channels are now delivered by the company’s satellites offering access to more than 830 million TV households across the Asia-Pacific region. AsiaSat’s next satellite, AsiaSat 9 is planned to be launched in Q2 2017. AsiaSat is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Asia Satellite Telecommunications Holdings Limited, a company listed on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (Stock Code: 1135). For more information, please visit www.asiasat.com

Barrie Woolston as New Chief Commercial Officer
Sabrina Cubbon in new role of VP, Business Development & Strategy
Hong Kong, 1 February 2017 – Asia Satellite Telecommunications Company Limited (AsiaSat) strengthens commercial and strategy teams with appointments of Mr. Barrie Woolston as new Chief Commercial Officer and Sabrina Cubbon in a new role of Vice President, Business Development & Strategy.

On 1 February 2017 and in the newly created role of Chief Commercial Officer, Mr. Woolston will integrate and lead all sales, marketing and commercial activities of the company. Mr. Woolston will lead a strong team that will search to understand and meet customers’ needs, and continue to develop new businesses worldwide.

“We welcome Barrie on board, bringing with him strong leadership, expertise and substantial marketing and customer service experience. I am confident that with an experienced and integrated sales team, Barrie will take AsiaSat’s commercial and customer activities to the next level,” said Andrew Jordan, President and Chief Executive Officer of AsiaSat.

“I’m delighted to take up this new commercial role and work closely with our customers and partners to provide enhanced service portfolio that meets customers’ changing needs. I join at an exciting time with the upcoming launch of our new satellite AsiaSat 9 and other new services later this year, and I look forward to partnering with our customers to face the challenges and drive our growth together,” said Barrie Woolston, Chief Commercial Officer of AsiaSat.

Barrie Woolston has 30 years of experience in the Technology，Media，Telecom sectors, with a wealth of solid experience in managing sales teams and driving new business, most recently as Chief Commercial Officer with Encompass Digital Media based in Atlanta, GA, 13 years as Commercial Director of Arqiva’s satellite and media business, and various global sales, marketing, product management and operations positions with leading brands globally.
In the role of Vice President, Business Development and Strategy, Mrs. Cubbon will be responsible for developing strategic initiatives to drive company’s business growth.
# # #
About AsiaSat
Asia Satellite Telecommunications Company Limited (AsiaSat), the leading satellite operator in Asia, serves over two-thirds of the world’s population with its six satellites, AsiaSat 3S, AsiaSat 4, AsiaSat 5, AsiaSat 6, AsiaSat 7 and AsiaSat 8. The AsiaSat satellite fleet serves both the broadcast and telecommunications industries. Over 700 television and radio channels are now delivered by the company’s satellites offering access to more than 830 million TV households across the Asia-Pacific region. AsiaSat’s next satellite, AsiaSat 9 on order from the manufacturer is planned to be launched in Q2 2017. AsiaSat is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Asia Satellite Telecommunications Holdings Limited, a company listed on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (Stock Code: 1135). For more information, please visit www.asiasat.com

Media Contacts:
Asia Satellite Telecommunications Company Limited

Follow AsiaSat on:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asiasat
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/asiasat2014
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/asiasatellite
Website: http://www.asiasat.com

Over half of Indians polled (56%) who pirate content could be convinced to pirate less – or stop – after learning about the damage piracy causes the media industry, underscoring the need for more consumer education

NEW DELHI, Convergence India, 8 February 2017 – A new online consumer survey from Irdeto, the world leader in digital platform security, found that 71% of Indian consumers polled are aware that producing or sharing pirated video content is illegal, and 64% know that streaming or downloading pirated content is illegal. Despite this high level of awareness, 66% of respondents still choose to watch pirated content. However, the survey also found that over half (56%) of Indian consumers who watch pirated content could be convinced to pirate less, or even stop watching, when told that piracy could hinder studio investment and cause a drop in the quality of content. The online research was conducted in partnership with YouGov and polled over 500 Indian adults aged 18+.

The research found that one in three consumers (30%) who watch pirated content in India are most interested in watching movies that are currently being shown in the cinema, followed by TV series (23%), and live sports (13%) and Blu-ray edition of movies (13%). Interestingly, only 6% of consumers who watch pirated content are interested in viewing digital service movies or TV programmes from content providers like Netflix, Hulu, etc. This reflects the state of video consumption in India, which is still rooted in a preference for local content but increasingly demonstrating an appetite for Hollywood content and more regional films.

“India’s OTT market holds huge potential for operators and content providers, especially with the rise of 129 million urban mass consumers who will drive India’s consumer story. Demand for content on any device will only grow – but so will piracy if it is not adequately addressed,” said Sanjiv Kainth, Country Manager, India, Irdeto. “Piracy not only damages revenue streams, but also deters content creators from investing in new content. It impacts the creative process and could provide consumers with less choice. It is important that consumers are aware of the long term impact of this behavior, and that content providers have a 360-degree approach to security and anti-piracy that can prevent pirates from stealing additional market share.”

In regard to the most popular devices used to consume pirated video content, Irdeto’s survey found that 48% of Indian consumers who watch pirate content use their laptops and computers most to watch this content while 25% use their smartphones. Streaming sites and devices were among the least popular channels to watch pirated content, standing at 1% each, while smart TVs, Google Chromecast and Android set-top boxes are used by a mere 3-4% of consumers, among those who watch pirated content.

“Pirate businesses will continue to capitalize on increased demand for content, but innovative operators are making headway in the fight against piracy,” said Rory O’Connor, Vice President of Services, Irdeto. “Consumer education, a compelling legal video service and a robust security and anti-piracy program are the best ways to mitigate online and streaming piracy. A comprehensive anti-piracy strategy that includes watermarking, detection and enforcement can prevent pirates from stealing market share.”

Methodology

The research was commissioned by Irdeto and conducted online from January 11, 2017 – January 18, 2017 by YouGov. Total sample size was 502 Indian adults (aged 18+). The figures have been weighted and are representative of the urban population of adults in India (aged 18+).

###

About Irdeto

Irdeto is the world leader digital platform security, protecting platforms and applications across multiple industries, such as media & entertainment, payments and automotive. 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:

Crystal Kung

Account Manager, WE Communications

P: +65 303 8472

Email: ckung@we-worldwide.com

Katie Walsh

Director, Corporate Communications, Irdeto

Mobile: +1-603-738-9599

Email: Katherine.walsh@irdeto.com

Stand a chance to win a trip of a lifetime to the Oscars^® Red Carpet 2018

SINGAPORE, February 7, 2017 – HBO Asia, the home of the Oscars^® in Asia, delivers the ultimate Oscars^® experience live and exclusive* across multiple screens from Monday February 27 at 8am (SIN), starting with the live broadcast and streaming* of the OSCARS^® RED CARPET followed by THE 89TH ANNUAL ACADEMY AWARDS on HBO and HBO GO at 9.30am (SIN). Exclusive Oscars^® web content will also be available on HBO Asia’s microsite (www.hboasia.com/oscars) while the network’s social media crew and host, Denise Keller, will bring exclusive Oscars^® red carpet moments to HBO Asia’s social media platforms.

Exclusive Red Carpet Reporting

HBO Asia’s social media crew and German-Chinese Singaporean host, Denise Keller, will be on the star-studded 2017 Oscars^® red carpet to interview Hollywood’s elite. These exclusive Oscars^® red carpet moments including video interviews with celebrities, behind-the-scene pictures from the red carpet and heartfelt celebrity shout outs will be available on the network’s social media platforms – Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

Exclusive Webcast of the Oscars^® ceremony

HBO Asia’s microsite will also feature exclusive webcast of the Oscars^® ceremony:

• Thank You Cam – Backstage interviews with the winners as they come off stage after accepting their awards
• Oscars^®Backstage Interviews – Backstage interviews of the winners
• Audience Cam – A live feed fixed on Hollywood’s most talented stars in the audience during the Oscars^®ceremony to capture candid moments in the Dolby Theatre^®
• Rapid Clips – Exclusive clips showcasing major moments of the Oscars^® ceremony

HBO Asia Oscars^® contest

Fourteen lucky winners of the 2016 Oscars^® contest from Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, Indonesia, Hong Kong and Taiwan will be in Los Angeles on a five-day all-expense paid Hollywood trip to watch the red carpet live at the 89^th Annual Academy Awards.

This year, HBO Asia is once again giving viewers the opportunity to win seven pairs of tickets in the HBO Ultimate Oscars^® Experience Contest. This opportunity of a lifetime includes watching the Oscars^® red carpet live and attending the Oscars^® viewing party in 2018. Also included are round-trip airfares to Los Angeles, 5D4N hotel accommodation, VIP tour of a theme park, and a helicopter tour of the breathtaking California coastline. To participate, viewers need to answer a question that will be revealed during HBO’s live and exclusive* broadcast of the 2017 Oscars^® this February 27 at 9.30am (SIN). Log on to www.hboasia.com/oscars for more details about the contest from February 13.

The Oscars^® Live Screening (MALAYSIA ONLY)

HBO Asia and Astro will host the live screening of the Oscars^® at St Regis Kuala Lumpur. Local celebrities, including Raianna Abdul Rahman, Syazwan Zakariah, Hisyam Hamid, Zarul Umbrella, Mark Adam, Wafiy, Awang, Jamal Jamaluddin, Akhmal Nazri and host Kamal Adli, as well as industry partners, Astro Circle contest winners and members of the media will be attending this exclusive, by-invitation-only screening event. The guests will get live updates from the HBO Sentral crew and host Nabil Ahmad, who are on-ground at the Oscars^® red carpet in Los Angeles.

The Oscars^® Live Screening (INDONESIA ONLY)

HBO Asia will host the live screening of the Oscars^® at Four Seasons Hotel, Jakarta. Hosted by social media personalities Ajeng Hendarmin, Ivy Batuta and Cisca Becker (aka Tiga Mami Kece), this exclusive, by-invitation-only screening event will be attended by local celebrities, as well as industry partners, contest winners and members of the media. The guests will be getting live updates from the HBO Sentral crew who are on-ground at the Oscars^® red carpet in Los Angeles.

Sky Alive! Tour (PHILIPPINES ONLY)

In a free activity open to the public over three days at SM Lanang Premier Activity Center, participants can test their knowledge of all things Oscars^® and receive souvenir photos at the HBO booth! The first 100 Skycable subscribers who pay their bills at the Sky Zone each day will enjoy a free make-over done by a professional make-up artist and hair stylist.

Hosted by Jimmy Kimmel, the 89th Annual Academy Awards will be held at the Dolby Theatre^® at Hollywood & Highland Center^® in Hollywood. The Oscar^® presenters announced to date are Leonardo DiCaprio, Brie Larson, Mark Rylance and Alicia Vikander.

THE 89TH ANNUAL ACADEMY AWARDS will be broadcast live and exclusively* on HBO this February 27, starting with the OSCARS^® RED CARPET ‘LIVE’ at 8am (SIN) with a same night primetime encore at 7pm (SIN), and THE 89TH ANNUAL ACADEMY AWARDS ‘LIVE’ at 9.30am (SIN) with a same night primetime encore at 8pm (SIN). Also streamed* live on HBO on HBO GO.

Follow #HBOAsiaOscars17 on HBO Asia:

www.hboasia.com/oscars

Facebook: @hboasia

Instagram: @HBO_Asia
Twitter: @HBOAsia

YouTube

#             #             #

*In selected territories.

About HBO ASIA

Singapore-based HBO Asia brings the best of Hollywood to Asia first through its exclusive licensing deals with major Hollywood and independent studios, including Paramount Pictures, Sony Pictures, Universal Studios, Warner Bros. and Lionsgate. HBO Asia has proprietary and award-winning HBO and HBO Asia Original programmes produced exclusively for HBO viewers. Wholly owned by HBO (a Time Warner company), HBO Asia reaches 23 territories across Asia with six 24-hour commercial-free subscription movie channels: HBO, HBO Signature, HBO Family, HBO Hits and Cinemax, as well as Red by HBO, internet streaming platform, HBO GO, subscription video on demand service, HBO On Demand, and in China, 鼎级剧场 (ding ji ju chang). HBO Asia is also the exclusive distributor of BabyFirst and the DreamWorks channel in the region. Log on to www.hboasia.com for more information.

HBO and Home Box Office are trademarks of Home Box Office, Inc. Used with permission.

The 89th Annual Academy Awards 2017 ©A.M.P.A.S.®

Karen Lai | Communications Director | HBO Asia 

DID +65 6381 1796 | Mobile +65 9111 2655 | Fax +65 6287 2210 | www.hboasia.com

New Turner Partnership adds to Stan’s biggest first-run 2017 line-up

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA (FEBRUARY 7, 2017) – Stan will become the Australian streaming home for content from the popular children’s channel Cartoon Network, after entering into a groundbreaking new partnership with Turner.

Cartoon Network is the most popular kids channel in the Asia-Pacific region, and Stan subscribers will now have access to its huge range of series, with entire franchises of beloved Cartoon Network shows added to Stan’s catalogue.

The partnership between the two leading entertainment brands will also see the premiere of the eighth and final season of pop-culture hit, Regular Show, first and exclusively in Australia this April on Stan – and that’s just the beginning. New seasons of Adventure Time and The Powerpuff Girls will premiere at the same time as they air on Cartoon Network.

“As the leading local streaming service, Stan is the perfect partner for Cartoon Network to showcase our amazing line-up of content. From Regular Show to Adventure Time, The Powerpuff Girls to Steven Universe, the arrangement further expands the reach of our uniquely entertaining children’s series across Australia,” said Robi Stanton, General Manager of Turner Australia, New Zealand and Pacific Territories.

“This is great news for Stan families,” added Nick Forward, Stan’s Chief Content Officer. “Stan is committed to delivering great value and great entertainment for Australian kids and families, so we couldn’t be more thrilled to be the Australian streaming home of Cartoon Network content. We can’t wait for our customers to be the first in Australia to see the new season of Regular Show.”

The partnership also provides Stan with the exclusive SVOD rights to other key Cartoon Network animated series including iconic titles Adventure Time, Ben 10, The Powerpuff Girls, We Bare Bears and Steven Universe.

– ENDS –

About Stan: Stan is Australia’s leading local subscription video-on-demand provider. Stan offers unlimited access to thousands of hours of entertainment, with an outstanding lineup of exclusive premieres such as Better Call Saul, Sherlock, Girlfriend Experience, Transparent and UnREAL. New SHOWTIME series also premiere exclusively on Stan, including the second season of Billions on February 20, 2017 and David Lynch’s Twin Peaks on May 22, 2017.

Stan Originals include the AACTA Award-winning and Logie Award-nominated series No Activity and the critically acclaimed AACTA Award-winning drama series Wolf Creek. Several other local projects are currently in development.

Stan’s award-winning TV shows, classic catalogue, blockbuster movies and popular kids content can be watched in full HD on your TV or favourite device, including tablets and smartphones. Stan is a joint venture between Nine Entertainment Co. and Fairfax Media. For more information, visit www.stan.com.au.

About Cartoon Network Asia Pacific

Turner’s Cartoon Network, the number one kids’ channel in Asia Pacific, offers the best in original animated content including the multi-award-winning global hits Ben 10, The Powerpuff Girls, Regular Show, The Amazing World of Gumball, Adventure Time and We Bare Bears. Cartoon Network is available in 29 countries throughout Asia Pacific and is currently seen in more than 135 million pay-TV homes. Internationally, it is seen in 192 countries and over 370 million homes, and is an industry leader with a global offering of the best in award-winning animated entertainment for kids and families. The brand is known for putting its fans at the center of everything by applying creative thinking and innovation across multiple platforms. Cartoon Network also reaches millions more through its websites, games and apps, including Cartoon Network Watch and Play and Cartoon Network Anything. Cartoon Network, sister company to Boomerang, POGO and Toonami, is a brand created and distributed by Turner, a Time Warner Company.

About Turner Asia Pacific

Turner Asia Pacific creates and distributes award-winning brands throughout the region, running 61 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, TCM Turner Classic Movies, truTV, MondoTV, TABI Channel, 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.

Media enquiries:

Alana Free, Stan Publicity – stan.publicity@stan.com.au /+61 (0) 408 225 816

James Moore, Turner Asia Pacific, James.Moore@turner.com / +852 3128-3720

SINGAPORE, FEBRUARY 6, 2017 – A remarkable line up of HBO Original drama and comedy series will premiere soon in Asia exclusively on HBO. They include two brand-new HBO Original series – BIG LITTLE LIES and CRASHING premiering same time as the U.S. on Monday, February 20 at 10am and 11.30am respectively with a same day primetime encore, and the final seasons of GIRLS, which debuts on Monday, February 13 at 10pm, and THE LEFTOVERS airing same time as the U.S. on Monday, April 17 at 9am.

Based on the New York Times number-one bestseller of the same name, the seven-episode limited drama series, BIG LITTLE LIES, is directed by Jean-Marc Vallée (Dallas Buyers Club) and stars a stellar cast including Oscar® and Golden Globe winner Reese Witherspoon, Golden Globe winner Nicole Kidman, Golden Globe nominee Shailene Woodley, Golden Globe winner Laura Dern, Zoë Kravitz, Alexander Skarsgård and Adam Scott. Told through the eyes of three mothers, BIG LITTLE LIES paints a picture of a town fuelled by rumours and divided into the haves and have-nots, exposing the conflicts, secrets and betrayals that compromise relationships between husbands and wives, parents and children, and friends and neighbours.

The brand-new eight-episode HBO Original comedy series CRASHING, is executive produced by Judd Apatow and created by and stars Pete Holmes as Pete, a sheltered suburbanite who married his childhood sweetheart and dreams of making it as a stand-up comedian. But when he finds out his wife is cheating on him, Pete’s world unravels, forcing him to re-evaluate his priorities and plunging him into the deep end of the rough-and-tumble New York comedy scene.

Created by and starring Lena Dunham, the Emmy^®-winning HBO comedy series GIRLS returns for its sixth and final season. Enjoying new success as a writer after participating in “The Moth,” Hannah gets an assignment that could change her life. Divorced from Desi, Marnie seeks to remain independent, but her self-absorption could undermine a budding relationship with Ray. New couple, Jessa and Adam, embarks on a creative project that could become a source of contention. Shoshanna flourishes at a marketing agency, but realises her friendships may be holding her back.

The new and final season of the eight-episode drama series THE LEFTOVERS stars Justin Theroux, Carrie Coon, Amy Brenneman, Kevin Carroll, Christopher Eccleston, Scott Glenn and Liv Tyler. Created by Damon Lindelof and Tom Perrotta, the Peabody Award-winning show finds the Garvey and Murphy families coming together as they desperately grasp for a system of belief to help better explain that which defies explanation. The world is crackling with the energy of something big about to happen, a corresponding bookend to the Sudden Departure that sent them all spinning years earlier, bringing their journey Down Under.

Premiere details:

• BIG LITTLE LIES and CRASHING will premiere on HBO same time as the U.S. on Monday, February 20 at 10am and 11.30am respectively with a same day primetime encore at 9pm and 10.30pm.
• GIRLS Season 6 will debut on HBO the same day as the U.S. on Monday February 13 at 10pm.
• THE LEFTOVERS SEASON 3 premieres on HBO same time as the U.S. on Monday, April 17 at 9am with same day primetime encore at 9pm.

 New episodes debut every Monday at the same time. All the above series will also be available on HBO GO. More information on these titles can be found in the press releases attached.

#          #          #

About HBO ASIA

Singapore-based HBO Asia brings the best of Hollywood to Asia first through its exclusive licensing deals with major Hollywood and independent studios, including Paramount Pictures, Sony Pictures, Universal Studios, Warner Bros. and Lionsgate. HBO Asia has proprietary and award-winning HBO and HBO Asia Original programmes produced exclusively for HBO viewers. Wholly owned by HBO (a Time Warner company), HBO Asia reaches 23 territories across Asia with six 24-hour commercial-free subscription movie channels: HBO, HBO Signature, HBO Family, HBO Hits and Cinemax, as well as Red by HBO, internet streaming platform, HBO GO, subscription video on demand service, HBO On Demand, and in China, 鼎级剧场 (ding ji ju chang). HBO Asia is also the exclusive distributor of BabyFirst and the DreamWorks channel in the region. Log on to www.hboasia.com for more information.

HBO, Home Box Office and HBO Asia Originals are service marks of Home Box Office, Inc.

Announces 16 new productions out of Southeast Asia in 2017

Singapore, 01 February 2017 – Discovery Networks Asia-Pacific (DNAP) today announced 16 new local productions commissioned out of Southeast Asia for the network’s flagship brand Discovery Channel as well as leading travel and lifestyle channel TLC across both linear and digital platforms. Discovery has collaborated with local creators and storytellers to co-create content that caters to the diverse viewership that is Southeast Asia.

Rohit Tharani, Director of Content Curation, Discovery Southeast Asia said, “For over 20 years, Discovery has had a great track record in innovative and immersive storytelling. Based on data-driven insights, we understand the power of telling homegrown stories. In 2017, we are taking the lead and investing in more local content than ever before, bolstering our flagship channels and broadening the appeal for the millennial generation. We are well positioned to take risks and be experimental with the content we are curating across platforms. This presents a unique opportunity to deepen our connection with existing and new audiences across Southeast Asia.”

Kicking off Discovery’s 2017 production slate is FRONTIER BORNEO, which follows the cast of Borneo’s unsung heroes as they uncover and protect Borneo’s stunning tropical landscape and rich biodiversity. From rescue missions, to wrangling deadly creatures across unchartered territories, the action-packed series reveals not only the beauty of the island but also the reality of frontier living. The series is produced by Beach House Pictures and Kyanite TV with the support of the Info-communications Media Development Authority (IMDA) and Perbadan Kemajuan Filem Nasional Malaysia (FINAS).

Also produced out of Malaysia by Matavia Reka is SURVIVING BORNEO. The series follows local television host and influencer Henry Golding, as the descendant of the once feared Iban tribe of Sarawak. Before marital bliss, Henry goes on a personal mission to discover his tribal roots through the unfamiliar and unforgiving jungles of his homeland to attain his “Bejalai”, an Iban rites of passage.

The internet is ridden with clips featuring home-made inventions, human guinea pigs, nature-obsessed thrillers and pure adrenaline junkies. Fronted by science enthusiasts Ramon Bautista, Jun Sabayton, Lourd De Veyra, Ra Rivera, and Angel Rivero, YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED ASIA by Jesuit Communications Foundation, Inc. deconstructs the science behind the experiments and exactly why it shouldn’t be attempted at home.

Produced by Montero Productions, WORST VACATION EVER follows Filipino celebrity brothers KC and Troy Montero as the duo boldly relives the worst, and most unbelievable holiday anecdotes to ever grace the internet.

Famous for diving into the rivers after fish and braving rapids for snagged gear, Oz Chanarat, aka BANGKOK HOOKER, is armed with a whole lot of bait and is on a mission to experience the weirdest and wildest fishing adventures Thailand has to offer. The series is produced by InFocus Asia from Singapore.

Global hit franchise SAY YES TO THE DRESS is coming to Asia on TLC. Produced by Endemol Shine Group, SAY YES TO THE DRESS ASIA showcases the colours and diversity of Asian weddings. Expect bridezilla meltdowns and intimate love stories behind choosing the perfect wedding dress.

TLC takes you on an intimate and inspirational journey into the relationship of businessman, car connoisseur, and transgender woman Angelina Mead King and her model-host wife Joey Mead King. In their debut television appearance, THE KINGS takes you behind the scenes for the candid highs and lows that come with being one of the most progressive couples in Asia. The series is produced by Active TV.

Following the success of WOK WITH US, a digital collaboration with Singapore foodies The Meatmen, 2017 will also see the premiere of eight short-form films from JumpCut Asia. Stemming from Discovery’s inaugural creative workshop in 2016 as part of the year-long partnership with IMDA to enable Singapore’s media talent to tell stories using new production technologies, JumpCut Asia will bring together the most heartwarming and surprising stories from Southeast Asia on Discovery’s digital platforms. These stories span from the bizarre world of chicken beauty pageants, amateur wrestlers struggling to attain superstardom, to a village where those with dementia live and play.

The slate of local productions further reinforces Discovery’s commitment to accelerate in-market growth opportunities while delivering local, compelling stories that uncover the insights into the people, cultures, and passions points of the region through the lens of larger than life characters and adaptable formats.

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About Discovery Networks Asia Pacific

Discovery Networks Asia Pacific, a division of the leading global entertainment provider Discovery Communications, is dedicated to satisfying curiosity, engaging and entertaining viewers with high-quality content through its portfolio of brands. From survival to natural history, wonders of science to extreme jobs, motoring to travel and lifestyle, and the latest engineering marvels to live sporting events, Discovery offers distinct must-watch programming to engage viewers across the region. The portfolio reaches 707 million cumulative subscribers in 37 countries and territories with programming customised in 14 languages and dialects. For more information, please visit www.discoverycommunications.com