Discovery Channel plans on Racing Extinction

Discovery Channel has acquired domestic and international rights to Louie Psihoyos’ documentary Racing Extinction.

Following the acquisition, Discovery Channel will launch the doc in the US and Discovery Networks International will premiere it in 220 territories elsewhere. After the broadcast debut, it will be made available on-demand.

Furthermore, the Vulcan Productions-created doc has secured a limited 10-mark US theatrical run.

The doc premiered at this year’s Sundance Film Festival. It comes from filmmaker and director Psihoyos (The Cove) and sees a team of undercover artists and activists exposing black markets involving endangered species around the world.

The acquisition is the first new doc chief John Hoffman has made after joining recently as executive VP, documentaries and specials.

He negotiated the deal with John Sloss of Cinetic Media on behalf of the filmmakers.

Hoffman’s hire came after new Discovery Channel president Rich Ross (pictured) intimated the flagship Discovery Communications chanel brand would ramp up its activity in classic documentary and factual programming.

“The message of Louie Psihoyos’ Racing Extinction is so important to survival as we know it,” said Hoffman.“Every person on the face of the earth needs to see this film.”