SUR, which operates Spanish-language pay TV networks Canal SUR, SUR Peru, TV Venezuela and Mexico TV, has launched a fifth network focused on series and films from across the Spanish-speaking world -- in addition to second-division Mexican league soccer.
Dubbed estudio5, the network is carried om DirecTV channel 420, where it debuted May 1. Time Warner Cable also carries estudio5 in Los Angeles, Palm Springs and San Diego, Calif.; and Austin, Corpus Christi, Dallas, El Paso and San Antonio, Texas.
Initial programming on the fledgling network includes the Telefe mini-series Historias de Diván, which focuses on psychoanalysis and doctor/patient interaction; the 13-episode Canal 9 Argentina production TV x La Inclusion, which takes on social problems and how society reacts; and Historias del Carcel, featuring tales from inside the prison cell produced by Canal 10 Uruguay.
Movies will air on Monday, Wednesday and Friday nights from 6 to 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. to midnight. Network executives did not disclose the titles set to air on estudio5.
Meanwhile, Ascenso MX -- considered the top “minor league” of Mexican soccer -- gains entry into U.S. homes with Saturday and Sunday telecasts. Coverage of the new season, or Apertura, starts July 18 and concludes Dec. 6.
Condista handles U.S. distribution for SUR’s networks, while LAETV is the U.S. media representation firm.
