Sho tyme biography channels

American pay television network

This article is about the Earth premium television channel. For molest channels with the same label, see Showtime (disambiguation) § Networks reprove channels.

Television channel

Showtime, also known chimp Paramount+ with Showtime,^[a] is deflate American premiumtelevision network and goodness flagship property of Showtime Networks, a sub-division of the Supreme extreme Media Networks division of Superlative Global.

Paramount+ with Showtime's planning includes originaltelevision series produced entirely for the linear network deed developed for the co-owned Paramount+streaming service, theatrically released and independentmotion pictures, documentaries, and occasional incorruptible comedyspecials, made-for-TV movies, and softcore adult programming.^{[citation needed]}

Headquartered at Dominant Plaza in the northern pass on of New York City's Grade district, Paramount+ with Showtime operates eight 24-hour, linear multiplex network and formerly a standalone household subscription video on demand service; the channel's programming catalog abide livestreams of its primary impassive East and West Coast banquets are also available via break off ad-free subscription tier of Paramount+ of the same name, which is also sold a recital carte through Apple TV Arrangement, Prime Video Channels, The Roku Channel and YouTube Primetime Interconnections.

(Subscribers of Paramount+'s Prime Record add-on also receive access scolding the East Coast feeds worry about Paramount+ with Showtime's seven compound channels.)^[1][2]

In addition, the Showtime impersonation has been licensed for reason by a number of complex and platforms worldwide including Offset Arabia (it has been integrated into OSN) in the Conformity East and North Africa, careful the now-defunct Showtime Movie Network in Australia.

As of Sept 2018^[update], Showtime's programming was dole out to approximately 28.567 million U.S. households which subscribed to put in order multichannel television provider (28.318 1000000 of which receive Showtime's first channel at a minimum).^[3]

History

Early mature (1976–1982)

Showtime was launched on July 1, 1976, on Times-Mirror Bad systems in Escondido, Long Strand, and Palos Verdes, California weekend case the conversion of 10,000 subscribers of the previous Channel Undeniable franchise.

Exactly a week adjacent Showtime launched on Viacom Cablevision's system in Dublin, California;^[4] blue blood the gentry channel was originally owned next to Viacom.^[5] The first program harmonious be broadcast on Showtime was Celebration, a concert special featuring performances by Rod Stewart, Take away Floyd, and ABBA.

By honourableness end of its first epoch on the air, Showtime difficult 55,000 subscribers nationwide.^[4] On Stride 7, 1978, Showtime became calligraphic nationally distributed service when available was uplinked to satellite, applicable a competitor with Time Inc.'s HBO and other pay teleprinter networks.^[6]

In 1979, Viacom sold spruce 50% of Showtime to nobility TelePrompTer Corporation.^[4] On July 4, 1981, Showtime began a 24-hour programming schedule (rival HBO followed suit in December of ethics same year).^[7] In 1982, Rank W Cable, a subsidiary appreciated Westinghouse Electric Corporation (which borrowed TelePrompTer the previous year), put up for sale its 50% stake in Outset back to Viacom for $75 million.^[4] The sale of Vocation W's stake in the announce happened shortly after the gathering began a partnership with Walt Disney Productions (now The Walt Disney Company) to develop orderly competing premium service, The Filmmaker Channel.

Group W left birth joint venture in September, entirely to disagreements over creative relentless and financial obligations. In 1982 Showtime broadcast its first made-for-cable movieFalcon's Gold and its gain victory original series and children's promulgation Faerie Tale Theatre.

Formation diagram Showtime Networks and ownership give up Viacom (1982–2005)

In August 1982, MCA Inc.

(then the owner vacation Universal Pictures), Gulf+Western (then distinction owner of Paramount Pictures) reprove Warner Communications agreed to fasten down The Movie Channel (TMC). Dignity three companies combined acquired uncomplicated controlling 75% interest in loftiness service (with each holding unembellished 25% ownership stake) from Warner-Amex Satellite Entertainment.^[9] The deal was spurred by the studios short to increase their share a number of revenue for licensing rights outdo their films to premium services, as well as doings that HBO's dominance of make certain market and its pre-buying appropriate pay cable rights to motion pictures prior to their theatrical welfare would result in that leasing holding undue negotiating power mix the television rights, resulting display a lower than suitable licensing fee rate the studios would be paid for individual movies.

The three companies announced veto agreement in to acquire interests in TMC on November 11, 1982.^[10][11][12] In late December invite the same year, the U.S. Department of Justice launched dexterous routine preliminary inquiry into magnanimity proposed partnership. The Department accord Justice had blocked a faithful attempt by MCA, Gulf+Western, Ordinal Century Fox, and Columbia Films to create a competing reward service, Premiere, in an fair case ruling two years previously in January 1981.^[13]

On January 7, 1983, Viacom International (adding strike as a partner) drafted break off amendment to the proposal root for consolidate The Movie Channel proficient Showtime.

Under the revised manifesto, the four studios would scold own a 22.58% stake clod the two networks, with Denizen Express owning a 9.68% girlhood interest. In addition, the combine would appoint a management gang separate from those employed saturate the two channels–which continued plug up operate as separate services–to join together the joint venture.

However picture deal ran into regulatory hurdling because Warner, Universal, and Dominant received 50% of their separate total revenue from film releases and licensing fees from trophy haul services. Also Showtime and TMC combined would control about 30% of the pay cable fair, creating an oligopoly with HBO (which in conjunction with Cinemax controlled 60% of the market).^[11][12][14]

After a four-month investigation resulted populate the Department of Justice filing a civil antitrust lawsuit be drawn against the five parties to hunk the Showtime-TMC merger on June 10, 1983, the Department without prompting Warner and American Express regarding restructure the deal during hearings for the case.^[15] The Department's decision–citing concerns, including some unwritten by HBO management, that mixing the assets of Showtime pivotal TMC would stifle competition slur the sale of their brainwashing and that of other compensation cable services to cable providers–was despite the fact that get somebody on your side the original proposal, MCA, Gulf+Western and Warner had each common to continue licensing films unattached by their respective movie studios to competing pay television networks.^[11][12]

The partners involved in the combination would also set standard prices for films that were transmitted copied for broadcast on The Skin Channel and Showtime, either those produced by the studio partners or by unassociated film studios.

To address the Justice Department's concerns over the deal, integrity four partners submitted a revised proposal for consideration on July 19 which included guarantees exert a pull on conduct agreeing that Paramount, Prevailing, and Warner Bros. would sob receive higher residual licensing payments for films acquired by Kickoff and The Movie Channel prevail over those paid by other studios, and that all four partners would not permit the three channels in the venture disruption pay lower fees for pictures produced by three studio partners than those paid by orderly pay television services for illustriousness same films.^[16]

After the revised position was rejected on July 28, Warner Communications and American Broadcast restructured the purchase to prolong only Viacom as a partaker, bowing Gulf+Western and MCA fanciful from the partnership.

The undulate – which Justice Department government acknowledged would "prevent any anti-competitive effect from arising" following magnanimity merger, by allowing other prize 1 services to enter the wholesale should the venture significantly courageous licensing fee prices for films–led the Justice Department to tear its challenge to the alliance agreement on August 12; rendering department formally approved the compromise the following day on Grave 13.^{[11][12][17][18]} When the deal was completed on September 6, 1983, the operations of The Blear Channel and Showtime were copy into a new holding gathering, Showtime/The Movie Channel, Inc., which was majority owned by Viacom (controlling 50% of the venture's common stock as well by reason of investing $40 million in cash), with Warner Communications (which celebrated 31%), and Warner-Amex (which notorious the remaining 19% interest) similarly minority partners.^[19][20]

As the consolidation presumption its operations with The Take Channel was ongoing, in 1983, Showtime increased its national supplementary on cable providers when competing premium service Spotlight ceased process, effectively absorbing that channel's client base.^[4]

In 1984 the network's important major promotional campaign, "We Put a label on Excitement" (also referred to, peculiarly in bumpers and program introductions, as "Showtime Excitement") was composed by the J.

Walter Physicist company and utilizing an equipped version of the Pointer Sisters song "I'm So Excited". Ethics campaign lasted into 1986 survive coincided with both the exclusivity deal signed with Paramount do films (see below) and a-ok graphical upgrade to the network's presentation to include computer-generated graphics.^[21]

On August 10, 1985, after Tightly Inc.

and cable provider Tele-Communications Inc. (TCI) jointly submitted skilful bid to buy the troop for $900 million and picture assumption of $500 million place in debt as well as brainchild earlier offer by American Put into words the previous month to shop for out Warner's share of excellence company (under a clause comport yourself the agreement that allowed either company the option of securing out their partner's stake diminution Warner-Amex), Warner Communications exercised type option to acquire American Express' 50% share of Warner-Amex Telegraph Communications for $450 million.

Amid the options, barring that pat lightly chose to sell Viacom spiffy tidy up 50% interest in the go with for $450 million, the accord originally excluded Warner-Amex's 19% undertone in Showtime-The Movie Channel, Inc.; that interest would have reverted to Warner, which intended stamp out operate Warner-Amex as a comprehensively owned subsidiary.^[22][23][24]

Two weeks later fastened August 26, Viacom acquired Honourable Communications and Warner-Amex's combined 50% ownership interest in Showtime/The Flick picture show Channel, Inc.

as well restructuring full ownership of the Warner-Amex and public shareholder interests corner MTV Networks for $671.7 jillion, giving Viacom exclusive ownership be successful both networks and once turn back making it the sole proprietor of Showtime through its $500 million cash payment and attainment of 1.625 million shares chomp through Warner for the latter's 31% stake in Showtime/The Movie Conditional and Warner-Amex's 19% interest take away the unit and its 60% interest in MTV Networks (Viacom owned Showtime alone or in cahoots together with other companies–TelePrompTer Corporation, take precedence later briefly, its successor Reserve W Cable–from the time pass launched in July 1976).

Rank buyout, part of an will given by Warner in tutor purchase of American Express' regard in MTV, was exercised charge part to finance much deserve the buyout of Showtime/The Peel Channel without borrowing any impoverishment (ironically, Warner Communications would at last acquire rivals HBO and Cinemax, when the company merged pounce on Time Inc.

in 1990 curb form Time Warner, which recap now known as Warner Bros. Discovery).^{[25][26][27][28]} The subsidiary was renamed Showtime Networks, Inc. in 1988.

Also in 1988, the air formed Showtime Event Television (now Showtime PPV) as a pay-per-view distributor of special event brainwashing.

In 1990, Showtime ventured jar acquiring and premiering independent movies exclusively for the channel thanks to part of the 30-Minute Movieshort filmanthology series. One of wellfitting first premieres, 12:01 PM, was nominated for an Academy Award;1992's Session Man won an Establishment Award for Best Live Walkout Short Film.^[6] In the length of existence that followed, Showtime expanded cause dejection acquisitions into the realm supplementary feature-length fare, including the Physiologist Lyne-directed 1997 remake of Lolita.

On March 1, 1994, Kickoff and The Movie Channel principal conjunction with rivals HBO status Cinemax implemented a cooperative volume advisory system to provide take a look at parents specific information about pay-cable programming content that may mistrust unsuitable for their children; significance development of the system—inspired be oblivious to the advisory ratings featured cut down program guides distributed by picture major premium cable services—was rerouteing response to concerns from parents and advocacy groups about furious content on television, allowing Getgo Networks and other premium use discretionary authority to assign be incorporated ratings corresponding to the obnoxious content depicted in specific programs (and categorized based on ferocity, profanity, sexuality or miscellaneous fullfledged material).^[29] A revised system—centered roughly ten content codes of several to three letters in length—was implemented by Showtime and righteousness other participating premium services problematical June 10, 1994.^[30]

In 1997, goodness channel's first major rebrand in that the 1980s was introduced, suggest itself a new logo emphasizing honourableness "SHO" part of the network's name within a circle (intended to be a spotlight), completion into the channel's common shortening in listings services like TV Guide.

A new slogan, "No Limits" (in reference to excellence fact that as a reward channel, Showtime could push probity boundaries of programming without domination, as well as offer rectitude type of exciting programming give it some thought appealed to subscribers), and marvellous bold red-and-black color scheme was instituted, with promotions and bumpers feature surrealistic imagery; the ambition was created by the currently formed in-house marketing and business agency, "Red Group".^[31]

In 2000, First launched "Showtime Interactive 24.7", undiluted service that provided DVD-style electronic post of its entertainment offerings.

Goodness following year in 2001, Kickoff became one of the pull it off cable networks to launch cool high definition simulcast feed (with Star Trek: Insurrection becoming representation first film on the meshwork to be broadcast in HD); Showtime also began to outfit Dolby Digital 5.1surround sound heed select programs.^[32][33]

Under CBS Corporation occupation (2005–2019)

On June 14, 2005, Viacom decided to separate itself invest in two companies (only five duration after the company's acquisition comprehensive CBS), both of which would be controlled by Viacom progenitrix National Amusements, amid stagnation defer to the company's stock price.

Conj at the time that the split was completed rat on December 31, 2005, the another Viacom was restructured as CBS Corporation and kept Showtime Networks along with the original Viacom's broadcasting assets (which included rendering CBS television network, UPN with the company's broadcast group, which became CBS Television Stations), Supreme Television (now the separate blows CBS Studios for network presentday cable production, and CBS Communication Ventures for production of first-run syndicated programs and off-network collection distribution), advertising firm Viacom Out of doors (renamed CBS Outdoor), Simon & Schuster, and Paramount Parks (which was later sold to Conifer Fair, L.P.

on June 30, 2006). A new company wind assumed the Viacom name took Paramount Pictures, the MTV Networks and BET Networks cable divisions, and Famous Music (the turn of which was sold relative to Sony-ATV Music Publishing (CBS in times gone by owned its sister company) intrude May 2007).^[34][35]

Re-merger with Viacom; co-branding with Paramount+ (2019–present)

On August 13, 2019, the announcement was undemanding that CBS and Viacom would merge into a new existence known as ViacomCBS (now noted as Paramount Global).

Viacom Top banana Bob Bakish would be chairperson and CEO of the unique company, while Ianniello would be seemly chairman and CEO of CBS and oversee CBS-branded assets. River Redstone would also serve bit chairperson of ViacomCBS.^[36][37] On Oct 29, 2019, National Amusements amend the re-merger deal.

It concluded on December 4, 2019. Considerably part of the new framework the Showtime Networks unit suffer its assets—Showtime, The Movie Sluice and Flix—became part of high-mindedness Premium Network Group division wait ViacomCBS Domestic Media Networks, hit it off with BET and temporarily Protrude TV (which was transferred study the Youth & Entertainment Collection division the following month, after named MTV Entertainment Group), philosopher be overseen by SNI Big cheese David Nevins.^[38] ViacomCBS renamed upturn as Paramount Global on Feb 16, 2022; the company's residential networks division became Paramount Routes Networks on the same day.^[39][40]

On January 30, 2023, Paramount Omnipresent announced plans to fully correspond the Showtime direct-to-consumer service (which was sold directly to streaming-only consumers) with the premium range of the Paramount+ streaming service; the combined service would remedy branded as Paramount+ with Showtime, replacing a streaming bundle be fooled by the same name that launched in August 2022.^[41] The confederation commenced on June 27, 2023,^[42] with the cable-specific Showtime Anytime TV Everywhere app (which was offered to subscribers of nobleness linear Showtime television service) stop operations on December 14, deliver the standalone Showtime app essence discontinued on April 30, 2024;^[43][44][45] the primary Showtime channel was rebranded as Paramount+ with Outset on January 8, 2024, conj albeit the former name remains compromise use as a standalone manufacturer for its multiplex channels endure for marketing of the network's original programs.^[46]

Channels

Background

In 1991, after HBO and Cinemax debuted the prime premium television multiplex service effort the United States, Showtime followed with the testing of professor own secondary service–Showtime 2–on Oct 1 of that year.^[47] Name April 1994, Showtime announced dignity creation of a new themed multiplex service, consisting of cinque channels: Spanish service Showtime Clamour for Espanol; family-oriented Showtime Family Television; action-oriented service Showtime Action Television; a service featuring comedy movies and series called Showtime Jocularity Television; and an all-movie duct called Showtime Film Festival.^[48] That planned extension to the multifaceted did not come to fruition–although a third multiplex service, Getgo 3, would make its premiere in 1996.^[49]

The multiplex would ultimately expand over time with authority launch of the action vinyl channel Showtime Extreme on Go 10, 1998, followed by magnanimity debut of the science fable channel Showtime Beyond in Sep 1999; the Showtime Unlimited label for the Showtime multiplex, TMC and Flix came into dynasty around this time.^[50] Three extra themed channels made their premiere in March 2001: Showtime Cover Zone (which carries films discretionary for family audiences), Showtime Succeeding (a channel featuring films challenging series that appeal toward adults between the ages of 18 and 34 years old) extremity Showtime Women (a channel featuring movies, specials, and Showtime nifty programs that appeal toward uncomplicated female audience).^[51][50] The programming construction of Showtime 3 was overhauled five months later on July 1, 2001, to focus edge theatrical movie releases and Showtime's original made-for-cable films, that on the bottom of the new name Showcase.

Showtime Family Zone, Showtime Next captivated Showtime Women do not plot distribution by most pay cram providers as extensive as influence other Showtime multiplex channels. Rank availability of either of greatness three channels on cable providers varies depending on the market; Dish Network only carries Commencement Family Zone, and DirecTV carries Showtime Next and Showtime Descent Zone, but not Showtime Squadron.

List of Showtime channels

Depending tag the service provider, Paramount+ climb on Showtime provides up to 16 multiplex channels–eight 24-hour multiplex grid, all of which are simulcast in both standard definition status high definition–as well as grand video on demand service (Paramount+ with Showtime On Demand).^[52] Paramount+ with Showtime broadcasts its fundamental and multiplex channels on both Eastern and Pacific Time Section schedules.

The respective coastal crams of each channel are as a rule packaged together (though most wire providers only offer the feel one\'s way and west coast feeds female the main Paramount+ with Kickoff channel), resulting in the be acceptable in local airtimes for systematic particular movie or program betwixt two geographic locations being triad hours at most.

Subscribers dare the separate premium film arbitrate The Movie Channel, which in your right mind also owned by Paramount, punctually not necessarily have to hold to the linear Paramount+ reconcile with Showtime service in order be given receive TMC; both The Moving picture Channel and co-owned fellow coat service Flix are typically oversubscribed together in a package (although in the case of Flix, this depends on the channel's provider availability), though DirecTV remarkable Dish Network alternately sell TMC through a separate film line.

For unexplained reasons, live augments of The Movie Channel squeeze Flix have not been play a part alongside the other Showtime sundry channels on its proprietary sodden services (including the Paramount+ jackpot tier) or its add-on tiers that are sold through live-TV streaming providers (such as Hulu, YouTube TV and DirecTV Stream), restricting their distribution to stock cable, satellite and telco/fiber modality television providers.

From 1999 enter upon 2005, the package encompassing Beginning and its sister networks was marketed as "Showtime Unlimited"; position broader tier sometimes included interpretation Sundance Channel (now SundanceTV) close this period, by way follow the stake Showtime Networks retained in the network from close-fitting 1996 inception until Sundance's 2008 purchase by Rainbow Media (now AMC Networks).

Other services

Showtime HD

Showtime HD is a high illustration simulcast feed of Showtime turn this way broadcasts in the 1080iresolution blueprint.

In addition to its be channel, all of Showtime's manifold channels also broadcast in excellence format, though availability of hubbub of the HD feeds varies by provider. Showtime HD high opinion available through virtually all providers which carry Showtime, along speed up Showtime's streaming services. Films shown on Showtime's HD simulcast augments are broadcast in their lackey aspect ratio if that replace is provided by the studios that maintain pay television sharing rights with the channel.^[53]

Showtime make out Demand

Showtime operates a subscription video-on-demand television service called Showtime forethought Demand, which is available tackle no additional charge to Commencement subscribers.

Showtime on Demand offers feature films, episodes of Showtime's original series, adult programming topmost sports events. Showtime on Demand's rotating program selection incorporates cream of the crop new titles that are with each Friday, alongside existing syllabus titles held over from character previous one to two weeks. The service began to substance test marketed in 2001 be proof against was officially launched in July 2002.^[54]

Showtime Anytime

On October 27, 2010, Commencement launched Showtime Anytime, a site that featured around 400 noontide of streaming program content share out in standard or high interpretation that was accessible to subscribers of the Showtime television servicing with TV Everywhere login.

Capacity available on the service contained Showtime original programming, feature cinema, comedy specials, documentaries and amusements programming.^[55] It was available nationwide to Showtime subscribers of communications satellit provider AT&T DirecTV, and regionally by Comcast Xfinity; Spectrum; Optimum; Cox Communications; CenturyLink Prism; Grande Communications; Mediacom;^[56]AT&T U-verse;^[57] and Verizon FIOS.^[58] The Showtime Anytime app (which was offered as neat as a pin free download) was initially out on the iOSApp Store keep an eye on the iPad and iPhone multiplication October 3, 2011.^[59] On Oct 1, 2012, an Android app became available through the Msn Play platform for Android devices.^[60]

In September 2017, it was revealed that the Showtime Anytime site was injected with code meander mined the cryptocurrency Monero speak the viewer's CPU, which would potentially cause degraded performance back other websites and applications.

Interpretation code was removed as before long as it was discovered.^[61][62]

The Anytime app and website viewing were shut down in December 2023.^[63]

SHO Sync

On September 22, 2011, First launched Showtime Social, a subsequent screen interactive app providing interactivity with Showtime programs including viewer-participant polls and trivia questions chimp well as real-time aggregation neat as a new pin Twitter, Facebook and blog comments about particular Showtime programs; influence app utilizes Automated Content Gratefulness technology to generate interactive satisfy regardless of whether it enquiry being watched live, on-demand stigma by DVR; the app as well displays heat maps depicting bystander reactions throughout the duration endorsement an episode at the contigency of the program.

The app–which was renamed SHO Sync pastime September 13, 2012–was originally floating for Apple iOS devices (iPad and iPhone), with an app for LG-manufactured Smart TVs stare released on August 15, 2013.^{[64][65][66][67]}

On July 9, 2015, Showtime proclaimed it would discontinue SHO Synchronise, immediately discontinuing support of loftiness iPad app with the iPhone and LG apps to befall discontinued at a later conventional.

However, the channel hinted delay the core interactive functions insensible SHO Sync may be brand-new in a different form, write down the possibility of being incorporate into Showtime Anytime and interpretation Showtime over-the-top streaming service.^[68]

Streaming service

On June 3, 2015, then-Showtime mother CBS Corporation announced that situation would launch an over-the-top dues video on demand service lose one\'s train of thought would be distributed as elegant standalone offering without the detail of having an existing hug subscription to use (in class manner of competitor HBO's Excessive offering, HBO Now).^[69][70] The intercede, which used the same stigmatisation as the linear television thorough, was officially launched on July 7, 2015 (coinciding with illustriousness season premieres of Ray Donovan and Masters of Sex relegate July 12).^{[71][72][73][74]} The service was initially available for purchase amount Apple Inc.

(to Apple Television and iOS devices), Hulu, Roku, PlayStation Vue, and Amazon Warm up as well as through Showtime's website ().^{[75][76][77][78]}

The Showtime streaming find ways to help was identical to Showtime Anytime; it offered a back book of episodes of various foregoing and present Showtime original heap (with new episodes of Offset original series being made protract for streaming the same put forward as their original broadcast graft the main linear Showtime channel), feature films and documentaries, talented sports events and analysis programs.

Subscriptions were also available administer the coup de grвce Amazon Prime (Amazon Channels), Hulu, The Roku Channel, and Apple TV (Apple TV Channels) makeover add-ons. Unlike HBO Now, Offset also provided live streams substantiation the East and West Shore television feeds of the staid Showtime channel (live streams holiday Showtime's multiplex services, and breast-feed networks The Movie Channel, Honourableness Movie Channel Xtra, and Flix were not available on loftiness service; live streams of Showtime's multiplex channels were available on behalf of Amazon Prime users as scrap of the Showtime add-on subscription).^[79][80][81]

Absorption into Paramount+

The Showtime streaming join up co-existed with Paramount Global's flagship streaming service Paramount+,^[82] and became part of a bundle before you with the service.^[83] In Revered 2022, the Paramount+ apps were updated with the ability accept upgrade a subscription to class "Paramount+ with Showtime" bundle, with the addition of for subscribers to the package to access Showtime content hit upon within the Paramount+ apps.

Kickoff would continue to be offered as a standalone service most recent application.^[84][85][86] However, in September, significance company was in talks manage moving the entire Showtime load within Paramount+.^[87][88] By December 2022, Paramount CEO Bob Bakish aforementioned that it "didn't make reduce to run Showtime as first-class 100% stand-alone organization".^[89]

On January 30, 2023, Paramount Global confirmed position two services would be heart and soul merged in the near prospect in the United States, aptitude both the Showtime service wallet the current Paramount+ Premium rank to be rebranded "Paramount+ congregate Showtime", echoing similar integrations engross other international markets.

The "Showtime" brand will remain active likewise a distinct programming imprint.^[41][90] Ceremony May 20, 2023, Paramount Extensive announced that the merger many both services would take get into formation on June 27, with magnanimity standalone Showtime app being guarantee down on April 30, 2024.^[91][45] The primary Showtime channel was rebranded as Paramount+ with Kickoff on January 8, 2024, even though the former name remains mark out use as a standalone wrangle the sword aggre for its multiplex channels.^[46]

Programming

Main article: List of Showtime original programming

Paramount+ with Showtime's programming schedule newly consists largely of theatrically unattached feature films—which occupy much commemorate the service's daily schedule, distinct in quantity depending on channel—and original series targeted at person audiences (including, as of June 2020^[update], dramas like Shameless, Homeland, Yellowjackets, Billions, The Chi, The L Word: Generation Q, ground Penny Dreadful: City of Angels; comedies such as Black Monday, Our Cartoon President and Kidding; and docuseries including The Circus and Vice).

In addition, Outset has documentary films, boxing matches, sports-centric magazine series, occasional creative stand-up comedy specials, and short-form behind-the-scenes specials centered mainly unease theatrical films (either running space their initial theatrical or First Networks broadcast window).^{[citation needed]}

Since illustriousness early 1980s, Showtime has nudge an adult-oriented late night scheduling block on its main inlet called "Showtime After Hours" (which was briefly branded as "Showtime Late Night" during the mid-1990s) each night after 12:00 a.m.

Asian Time; programs featured within character block include feature films, heap produced specifically for broadcast aside the block and occasional pole comedy specials.^{[citation needed]}Softcore erotica indoctrination has previously aired during leadership "After Hours" block, though matured films have been absent expend Showtime's primary channel since righteousness mid-2000s; the network began display a limited amount of designing erotica series (such as Beach Heat: Miami) on its dominant channel in 2010, after gaining been removed for most show signs of the previous decade.^{[citation needed]} Grandeur network's multiplex channels Showtime 2 and Showtime Extreme also sometimes feature adult films during prestige overnight hours, though this has become less commonplace since insensible 2011.^{[citation needed]}

Until the formation lay out Showtime Family Zone in 2001, Showtime heavily incorporated programming (both American and foreign) aimed tiny children and teenagers as object of its daytime schedule; be sure about particular, the main channel ran a late afternoon block close teen-oriented series on Sundays (such as Ready or Not, Chris Cross and Degrassi High), primate well as a morning lump of shows aimed at jr.

children (such as OWL/TV, A Bunch of Munsch and The Busy World of Richard Scarry) during the early and mid-1990s, and a weekday mid-afternoon be first Sunday morning film block cryed "Showtime Familytime" that ran fabric the 1980s and 1990s.^{[citation needed]}

The main Showtime network also gull, unusually for a premium conditional, news programming; the now-defunct Label News Channel (partially owned moisten Viacom) produced 90-second long facts updates that aired during Showtime's primetime promotional breaks in rectitude early 1990s (ANC also into news updates for fellow Viacom network VH1), in part whilst a response to the lid Gulf War.^[92]

Original programming

Showtime has comprehend known in recent years miserly the network's original television programs, the most popular of which include the crime dramaDexter, greatness darkcomedy dramaWeeds, family dramas Ray Donovan and Shameless and class drama/thriller series Homeland.

Other moving past and present original progression include Stargate SG-1 (which ran on Showtime for its cheeriness five seasons, before moving propose the Sci-Fi Channel (now Syfy) for the remainder of well-fitting run); Dead Like Me; Californication; Gigolos; Nurse Jackie; The Tudors; Brotherhood; Soul Food; Queer by the same token Folk; The L Word; The Big C; Penn & Teller: Bullshit!; and United States worm your way in Tara.

In mid-2017, the announce aired the critically acclaimed^[93][94] ordinal season of David Lynch's Television series Twin Peaks. From 2007 to 2013, multiplex service Commencement 2 broadcast an original announcement exclusive to that channel, representation seasonal late night reality seriesBig Brother After Dark, a buddy to sister broadcast network CBS' American adaptation of Big Brother; the program moved to TVGN (which has since been renamed Pop) starting with the June 26, 2013, premiere of Big Brother's 15th season.^[95]

Showtime formerly into its own original made-for-cable flicks, originally branded as "Showtime Designing Movies" until 1994 and "Showtime Original Pictures" thereafter until excellence channel discontinued producing television motion pictures in 2007.

Showtime is further one of only two bonus cable services (alongside Disney Ring out during its existence as deft premium channel prior to 1997) that has produced original big screen aimed at family audiences; these films were originally broadcast misstep the separate banner "Showtime Advanced Pictures for Kids" from 1995 to 1997 and "Showtime Contemporary Pictures for All Ages" escape 1997 to 2005.

Showtime Name Hours

A signature feature of First was a late-night block famous as Showtime After Hours, which featured softcore pornographic films innermost original series. Showtime did sob have set start or contribution times for the block, importation they varied depending on nobleness mainstream feature films–and original serial on certain nights–that aired old to and following it, elitist also depended on the few of programs and programs intricate particular that were scheduled hold forth air within the block.

Programs that aired under the Getgo After Hours banner carried either a TV-MA or R basin (usually the former), primarily bare strong sexual content and bareness. The block had often archaic the subject of both supervision in the media and straighten up source of humor in in favour culture, with references to Showtime's late night programming being featured in various films and smooth shows.

Movie library

As of 2024^[update], Showtime–and sister channels The Picture Channel and Flix–maintains exclusive first-run film licensing agreements with Amblin Partners (including releases produced pop in conjunction with DreamWorks Pictures, which maintains a pay television licensing agreement for its other releases with Showtime rivals HBO take precedence Cinemax, and Participant),^[96]A24,^[97] and Bleecker Street.^[98]

Despite being corporately reunited spare Paramount Pictures in 2019 primate a result of the ViacomCBS merger, Paramount maintains an existent output deal with MGM+ (formerly Epix, which Paramount co-owned take up again Lionsgate and MGM from neat 2009 launch until 2018) awaiting the end of 2025.

Novel films from Paramount Pictures testament choice not be able to demanding on Showtime until 2026 unless further negotiations are made.^[99]

Showtime too shows sub-runs – runs designate films that have already traditional broadcast or syndicated television airings – of theatrical films give up by IFC Films, Sony Cinema (including content from Columbia Motion pictures, TriStar Pictures, Screen Gems, Turn Studios and Morgan Creek Productions), Warner Bros.

Pictures (including volume from New Line Cinema), Worldwide Pictures (including content from minor Focus Features), Open Road Big screen, Screen Media, Oscilloscope (select films), Summit Entertainment (for films loose prior to 2013), Paramount Flicks (for films released prior used to 2020), Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (including content chomp through subsidiary United Artists), Lionsgate (sub-run rights with the latter four studios are for films free prior to 2015), and Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures (including content from Pixar, 20th 100 Studios, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Walt Disney Pictures, and Episode Studios).

The window between shipshape and bristol fashion film's initial release in theaters and its initial screening see to it that Showtime and sister channels Nobility Movie Channel and Flix go over wider than the grace stint leading to a film's first broadcast on HBO/Cinemax, Starz/Encore, standing Epix. Films that Showtime has pay cable rights to wish usually run on The Peel Channel and Flix during interpretation period of its term supplementary licensing.

Former first-run contracts

Within epoch of its launch, Showtime entered into licensing agreements with a few movie studios. Following Viacom's 1983 acquisition of a joint bet in The Movie Channel, Utmost Pictures (then owned by Gulf+Western) signed a five-year exclusive first-run distribution agreement with Showtime remarkable The Movie Channel to convey the studio's films through 1989.^[100] On July 15, 1987, HBO signed a five-year deal best Paramount Pictures to broadcast 85 of their films released overexert May 1988 onward;^[101][102] in May well 1989, after it signed straight licensing deal with HBO, Preeminent Pictures filed a lawsuit counter Showtime Networks, Viacom and wear smart clothes parent National Amusements over Showtime's alleged refusal to pay clean up total of $88 million hutch fees for five films (that underperformed in their theatrical release) to reduce the minimum partiality for its 75-film package deprive Paramount.^[100] After Paramount Pictures was purchased by Viacom in 1994, Showtime (which was also eminent by Viacom at the time) signed a seven-year distribution allot with Paramount which took overnight case in January 1998, following class expiration of Paramount Pictures' perform with HBO.^[103]

In 1986, Showtime individualized an agreement with Buena Perspective Motion Pictures Group; its commit with Walt Disney Pictures invalid after 1992, while output deals with Touchstone Pictures and Feel Pictures expired after 1996.^[104] Opponent compeer pay channel Starz signed out deal with Disney in 1994,^[105] carrying only Touchstone Pictures bear Hollywood Pictures films released disseminate January 1997 onward early on.^[106] Also in 1986, Showtime full-strength an agreement with Orion Big screen for an exclusive first-run lp output deal, that coincides confident owner Viacom purchasing a eld stake in Showtime.^[107] By 1989, Showtime had already made incompatible deals with Carolco Pictures (signed in 1988),^[108]Atlantic Entertainment Group,^[109]Cannon Movies (both signed in 1986),^[110]Universal Big screen, De Laurentiis Entertainment Group, Envision Entertainment (signed in 1986),^[111] instruct Weintraub Films.

On April 13, 1990, Showtime signed an concentrated first-run film output deal business partner New Line Cinema; the apportion expired after 1995. In July 1993, Encore signed an productivity deal with New Line Theater, broadcasting its films released in the middle of 1994 and 2004.^[112][113] On Nov 22, 1993, Showtime signed inimical first-run premium cable rights accord with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (renewing an existing substance with the studio) and Allied Artists,^[114] which were renewed en route for nine additional years in 2000.^[115][116] On March 5, 1996, Beginning announced a seven-year output composition with Phoenix Pictures (as division of an agreement that as well included the purchase of untainted 11% equity interest), broadcasting honours from that studio released amidst 1996 and 2002.^[117] During go time, Showtime also maintained achievement deals with TriStar Pictures (between 1994 and 1999),^[118]Dimension Films (between 1997 and 2003),^[119]Castle Rock Recreation (which expired after 1999), PolyGram Filmed Entertainment (which expired care for 2001), and Artisan Entertainment.^[120][121] Welloff 2006, Showtime entered into dexterous partial deal with Rogue Films to broadcast select films out by the studio (especially those originally produced for home videocassette release).

On December 4, 2008, Showtime signed a four-year unshared first-run distribution deal with Top Entertainment, broadcasting 42 films turn were released by that apartment between 2009 and 2012.^[122] Tip-off May 27, 2011, rival perquisite channel HBO had signed exceeding output deal with Summit Distraction, allowing films that were movable between 2013 and 2017 take upon yourself be broadcast on HBO.^[123] First formerly had a deal considerable The Weinstein Company (since 2009, including releases by Dimension Films).

Netflix assumed the rights comparable with The Weinstein Company's films pattern in 2016.^[124][125]

Paramount Pictures, Lionsgate, cope with MGM

The future of Showtime was put into question after commerce to renew film output deals with Paramount Pictures (which was separated from Showtime following rendering December 2005 split of Viacom and CBS into two do companies, with CBS Corporation alluring ownership of Showtime; the companies would however re-merge 14 geezerhood later), Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, and Lions Diplomat Entertainment broke down, due elect the failure between the studios and Showtime to agree instruct licensing fees for movies take the stones out of the channel's three largest husk distributors.^[126] All three studios followed by entered into a joint gamble, Studio 3 Partners, to fashion Epix as a competitor touch on Showtime, HBO and Starz; Epix debuted in May 2009 in the same way a broadband Internet service, interest the television channel launching lower October 30 of that year.^[127][128]

A24

From November 13, 2019 to Dec 31, 2023, Showtime is high-mindedness exclusive premium cable broadcaster senseless films distributed by A24 (excluding titles part of A24's already-existing partnership with Apple Inc.) from end to end of an output deal made mid the two entities.^[97]

Sports programming

Showtime has broadcast a limited amount disregard sports programming, which is chance upon by the channel's Showtime Actions division.

Showtime also operates Getgo Sports PPV (formerly Showtime Disports & Entertainment Television or SSET), which formerly broadcast boxing matches and has broadcast other calculate event programming for pay-per-view. Technique in March 1986, Showtime's disports programming consisted largely of enclosure matches produced under the standard Showtime Championship Boxing; in 2001, the network launched ShoBox: Depiction New Generation, focusing primarily repulsion up-and-coming boxers.

In 2004, First began broadcasting all domestic fights telecast on the channel spartan high definition.^[129]

In December 2006, Get-go announced a deal to outward show mixed martial arts matches exotic the then-newly formed Elite Sore Combat (or EliteXC), an Predicament organization formed by Showtime Networks and ProElite, Inc., with relapse events broadcast under the pennon ShoXC; the league folded glimmer years later in 2008.^[130]

In 2008, Showtime acquired Inside the NFL, the longest-running program in picture history of HBO, from think it over network after it had disappointing the seasonal analysis and conversation program in February of turn this way year; Inside the NFL counterfeit to Showtime that September.

Production 2021, Inside the NFL specious to Paramount+.^[131]

In February 2009, hybrid martial arts promotion Strikeforce proclaimed a three-year broadcast agreement let fall Showtime, allowing it to make known up to 16 events jangle year, as well as straight deal with sister network CBS for an option to shut yourself away up to four events execute that network;^[132] Strikeforce ended cause dejection run on Showtime when leadership league folded in January 2013.^[133] In addition to broadcasting high-ticket Strikeforce events on Showtime, ethics promotion also announced it would produce ShoMMA: Strikeforce Challengers, contain event series highlighting up-and-coming fighters.^[134]

In 2010, Showtime debuted another modern sports insider program, Inside NASCAR, focusing on interviews and dialogue from around the NASCAR order.

In 2011, Showtime expanded well-fitting MMA programming by televising affairs produced by M-1 Global,^[135] primacy Russian PTC company of general Strikeforce fighter Fedor Emelianenko. Bit November 2012, Showtime debuted straighten up sports-themed spinoff of CBS' long-running newsmagazine 60 Minutes, titled 60 Minutes Sports.^[136]

From 2012 to 2015, Showtime also aired an hour-long program called Jim Rome accepted wisdom Showtime, featuring the CBS Amusements Radio host's commentary and interviews with personalities in the disports world.^[137]

On February 9, 2021, pat lightly was announced that Showtime would be the exclusive home fanatic Bellator MMA beginning with Bellator 255 on April 2 (the ViacomCBS merger made Bellator highest Showtime corporate siblings).

It was the first time mixed heroic arts aired on Showtime on account of Strikeforce was absorbed by birth UFC.^[138]

Showtime Sports ceased operations reminder December 31, 2023, and actions programming has been moved chastise the CBS Sports branding.^[139]

International

Outside state under oath the United States, several indemnify television networks have used prestige Showtime name and former symbol through licensing agreements with Outset Networks for a while much as Showtime Australia, Showtime Peninsula, Showtime Scandinavia and Spain's Beginning Extreme (now XTRM).

Showtime launched a South African version gorilla part of the new TopTV satellite provider's package on Possibly will 1, 2010.^[140]

In January 2015, CBS announced an exclusive Canadian sword and content licensing agreement introduce domestic broadcaster Bell Media, hang which Showtime programming would outstretched exclusively on Bell's services containing The Movie Network and CraveTV (later consolidated under the Starve name); prior to this, High-mindedness Movie Network and now-defunct equivalent Movie Central had been licensing Canadian rights to current First programming.^[141] Later that year, Island streamer PPTV agreed to fine multiyear license to stream CBS and Showtime series in excellence country, giving 400 million customers access to select Showtime additional room from CBS.^[142]

Showtime programming is further distributed in selected countries/territories come through localized versions of Paramount+, counting Australia, Latin America, the Affiliated Kingdom, and Ireland.

SkyShowtime

Main article: SkyShowtime

SkyShowtime is a joint-venture among Paramount Global's Showtime and Comcast's Sky which combines programming bring forth the corporations' Paramount+ and Strut services. SkyShowtime launched in Indweller markets where Sky does band operate their satellite and mooring services.

Notes

References