Six CBS-branded channels will launch in the UK later this year after the US giants international arm struck a joint venture deal with multichannel operator Chellomedia.

The new channels will replace a number of free to air channels. The channels that will be repalced are Zone Romantica, Zone Thriller, Zone Horror and Zone Reality, plus Zone Horror+1 and Zone Reality+1. The new themes or brands for the channels have not yet been revealed.

They will air programming from CBS Studios Internationals catalogue of more than 70,000 hours of drama, reality and long form content. Programmes include Dynasty and the original re-mastered series of Star Trek. The channels will also acquire third party programming.

Chellomedias international broadcaster arm, Chello Zone has agreed a 50/50 joint venture with CBS International and will continue to operate the channels.

About Chello Zone

Chello Zone is a UK-based television company known for its diverse portfolio of international channels catering to various genres, including entertainment, movies, and children’s programming. Founded in 1998 as part of the Chellomedia group, Chello Zone operated several popular channels across Europe, Asia, and beyond. These channels included Zone Reality, Zone Horror, Zone Romantica, and Zone Thriller, each offering specialized content tailored to specific audience tastes.

Chello Zone was recognized for its strong emphasis on niche markets, providing viewers with unique and targeted programming that was not always available on mainstream channels. For instance, Zone Reality featured real-life documentaries and reality TV shows, while Zone Horror catered to fans of horror films and series. Chello Zone also offered localized content, dubbing or subtitling their channels to suit regional preferences, which helped them maintain a strong presence in various countries.

In 2014, Chello Zone was acquired by AMC Networks, leading to a rebranding of its channels under the AMC banner. This acquisition marked the end of the Chello Zone brand.  Their legacy continues through AMC Networks’ continued operation of the former Chello Zone channels, now with a broader global reach.