Playboy, Hype TV Reach Distribution Deal

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Hype TV isn’t set to launch until late 2004, but the upstart hip-hop-themed network will distribute original programming through adult network Playboy Television beginning next May as part of a deal between the two networks.

Playboy will run uncensored videos, as well as other original programming from Hype TV, via a weekly programming block that will be made available to Playboy subscription and pay-per-view customers, officials from both networks said.

The partnership will also encompass production and distribution of original Hype TV programming and music videos through DVD sales.

R. Thomas Umstead
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.