Foxtel launches new line-up with US acquisitions

Australian pay TV broadcaster Foxtel has acquired a raft of US programming as it announces its latest line up.

The broadcaster has acquired NBC Universal’s musical Smash, Fox-distributed Awake, Warner Bros-distributed remake of Shameless, NBC Universal’s fairytale drama Grimm, Tim Allen-fronted Fox-distributed comedy Last Man Standing, The Bitch in Apartment 23, Warner Bros’ pair of CW series Hart of Dixie and The Secret Circle as well as ABC Family drama Switched At Birth.

Foxtel has also picked up Pawn Stars, Storage Wars, Ax Men, Swamp People, Ice Road Truckers and Dog The Bounty Hunter for its new factual channel.

Additionally, it is launching a raft of new local productions including a local version of Off Their Rockers, Tony Robinson Explores Australia, I Survived: Stories of Australia and a local version of Shine’s Got To Dance.

Brian Walsh, Foxtel director of television said, “In 2011 we have again enjoyed a successful year of Australian programming – it is my pleasure to announce the exciting new series and as well as a brand new channel for 2012.”