THE TRANSATLANTIC MAGAZINE
Sign up to The American magazine's newsletters (below) to receive more regular news, articles and updates on America in the UK.
Smithsonian Channel to launch in UK
The channel inspired by the Smithsonian Institute launches February 12
www.smithsonianchannel.com
The Smithsonian Channel, a station inspired by the world-famous Smithsonian Institution, is launching on UK television tomorrow (February 12). The Smithsonian Institution was founded in 1846 when Englishman James Smithson donated his fortune to America for "the increase and diffusion of knowledge" - and now the channel inspired by that sentiment will be available to watch in the UK.
The channel will combine original programming covering a range of non-fiction topics including history, travel, air and space, science, nature and pop culture, often with a focus on the US, with new UK commissions including a documentary exploring the relationship between Malcolm X and Tariq Ali, and a show hosted by Clive Anderson exploring Britain's most mysterious sights.
Discussing the UK launch, Tom Hayden, President of Smithsonian Networks, said "Smithsonian Channel has already resonated powerfully with audiences in Canada, Singapore and Latin America, so we can’t wait to bring our award-winning and varied slate of programming to the UK audience". David Royle, Chief Programming Officer at Smithsonian Networks, went on to explain that "we’ll be bringing a lot of exciting new programmes to the UK, along with commissioning new programmes specific to British interests."
Whilst catering to British interests, the channel will also bring several popular signature series focusing on America to UK screens. America in Colour transforms history normally seen in black and white to full color, in a series exploring American life between the 1920s and 1960s. The Lost Tapes relives iconic moments in history, from the Apollo 13 missions to the Clinton impeachment. The Green Book: Guide to Freedom reveals the true story of the motorist’s travel guide, which has recently been featured in the award-winning Hollywood movie about racial segregation in 1960s America, whilst Aerial America takes viewers on a flight around America, telling the stories of all 50 states, including their natural beauty, pop culture landmarks and historical insights, from above.
The Smithsonian Channel is available to Freeview users on Channel 57, Freesat users on Channel 175, Sky TV subscribers on Channel 160, and Virgin Media subscribers on Channel 295.