Press Release from Starz Media and Syfy
New York, NY -- July 15, 2009 -- Syfy has renewed and expanded a content licensing deal with Starz Media's anime distribution arm, Manga Entertainment. The new agreement renews the weekly Ani-Monday programming block on Monday nights from 11 p.m. to 1 a.m. ET. This month marks the beginning of a new season of Ani-Mondays and a new, two-hour programming block on sister channel, Chiller that will air horror-based anime programming on Mondays from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. ET will be added. Ani-Monday and the Chiller anime block will feature a collection of movies, series and shorts from Starz Media's anime distribution arm, Manga Entertainment.
Ani-Monday showcases new content including the recently launched season two of the popular "Gundam 00" series from Bandai Entertainment. This joins a lineup geared towards anime fans and enthusiasts, including "Gurenn Lagann," "RaveMaster" and motion comics based on the popular "Street Fighter" series. The Chiller anime block will air popular, blood-thirsty titles including "Blood: The Last Vampire", "Ninja Scroll" and episodes of "Descendants of Darkness."
"Ani-Mondays have become appointment viewing for anime lovers, now entering its third year on Syfy," said Thomas Vitale, Syfy's senior vice president, programming and original movies. "With more anime programming coming our way and an opportunity for cross-promotion with the new programming block on our sister channel, Chiller, we are very pleased that this summer is shaping up to be an exciting one for our viewers."
"Starz Media and Manga Entertainment are blessed to have a deep and loyal fan base for anime and such a terrific partnership that allowed us to renew and expand our relationship with Syfy and now, Chiller," added Marc DeBevoise, Starz Media senior vice president, digital media, business development and strategy. "Anime fans -- new and old -- will now have an unmatched opportunity to enjoy their Mondays."
Many of the programs in the block will be made available for rental and download on digital platforms through Starz Digital Media's network of distribution relationships after their airings on Syfy and Chiller, with clips and additional information available at www.manga.com.
