Canwest launching Global Reality Channel

Canwest is launching the Global Reality Channel, which will feature unscripted programming sourced from international markets. The Canadian media company said the cable network will offer “viewers a one-stop destination for the most popular reality shows and franchises from around the world.”

The specialty channel rolls out at the start of July and the launch schedule includes the UK version of FremantleMedia-distributed The Apprentice and the Canadian version of Endemol-distributed Deal or no Deal. Other shows acquired for the channel include Big Brother, Survivor, Project Runway and Fear Factor.

Announcing the launch, Canwest quoted BBM figures that show reality TV is the second most popular genre among Canadian viewers after drama.

“Reality viewers have a voracious appetite for this type of programming and we are pleased to give them a place to discover new shows, relive their favourite moments, or enjoy earlier seasons of hit shows for the first time,” said Barbara Williams, executive VP of content, Canwest Broadcasting.

The channel will be carried on the digital tier of Rogers’ cable service, which has about one million subscribers.