A&E launches flagship channel in Australia

A&E Networks is launching its flagship A&E channel in Australia, marking one of the first international launches for the channel.

The US cable broadcaster will launch A&E Network in Australia on February 6 after striking a deal with local pay TV operator Foxtel. A&E Networks already operates History, Crime & Investigation Network and Bio in the country. The Australian launch is the first major global launch for the channel, which currently only operates in the United States, Canada and Latin America.

The broadcaster has already commissioned its first local production; working with Bondi Rescue producer Cordell Jigsaw on one-hour special MegaTruckers. The one-off will be part of the channel’s launch and will be developed into a full series later in the year. The show will sit alongside A&E series including Storage Wars, Storage Wars Texas, Dog the Bounty Hunter, Billy the Exterminator, Pawn Stars, and American Pickers.

“We are thrilled to be teaming up with our long time partners, Foxtel, to bring the A&E brand to Australia,” said Sean Cohan, senior vice president, international, A+E Networks.  “A&E is a leading television brand in the US, Canada and Latin America, with proven content that performs well worldwide.  I am confident the channel will meet with great success in Australia.”