Discovery-Spielberg update: ongoing talks about programming deal

Discovery Communications has confirmed it is in talks with Hollywood director Steven Spielberg with a view to cooperating on shows for its channels, but is not planning on launching a high-end factual channel as had been previously reported.

Discovery, under the leadership of David Zaslav, has linked with various high-profile US stars, including a production deal with Whoopi Goldberg and her production company Whoop Inc. It is now in early-stage talks with Spielberg about possible programming tie-ups.

It is not, a spokeswoman said, working with the iconic director on the launch of a full-fledged channel along the lines of the one it is launching with Oprah Winfrey.

The Whoop Inc. show, Head Games, will bow on Discovery’s Science Channel this October. The irreverent trivia series will be the first of its kind to lauch on the network.