ITV

Category: Television

  • Kickstart 2025 with a bang! Warner Bros. brings a whirlwind of fun for kids

    Kickstart 2025 with a bang! Warner Bros. brings a whirlwind of fun for kids

    MUMBAI: The countdown is over, and 2025 has arrived!

    While the grown-ups toasted their way into the new year, it’s time for kids to celebrate in their style—fun, laughter, and edge-of-your-seat adventures.

    And guess what? Warner Bros. Discovery’s kids’ channels—Cartoon Network, Pogo, and Discovery Kids—are here to turn January into a rollercoaster of excitement!

    Kids be ready (Adults too! we don’t judge) for a month packed with action, humour, and stories that will make your imagination soar. Because 2025 isn’t just about starting a new year—it’s about starting it your way, with the coolest lineup of shows that make every day an adventure.

    So, grab the popcorn, turn up the volume, and let Cartoon Network, Pogo, and Discovery Kids set the stage for your best year yet!

    This January, it’s all about kids. It’s all about fun.

    Cartoon Network starts the year with the return of Lamput on 11-12 January at 10 am, featuring new episodes of the mischievous, shape-shifting troublemaker outwitting the persistent scientists.

    1    Bandbudh aur Budbak introduces fresh episodes every Monday to Friday at 7 pm, following the hilarious antics of Badrinath and Budhdeb.

    2    The thrilling Bionic Max premieres on 13 January, with daily episodes at 9:30 am, spotlighting Max, the bionic guinea pig, and Jean-Claude, his loyal fish friend, navigating urban challenges.

    3    Fans of high-seas adventures can join Luffy and the Straw Hat Pirates in One Piece East Blue, airing every Sunday at 1 pm, as they chase the legendary One Piece treasure.

    Pogo takes viewers on mythical journeys, starting with the Chhota Bheem Big Picture: Mahashaitan – The Rise of Dark World trilogy. The three-part special airs every Sunday from 5-19 January, bringing action-packed episodes as Bheem battles to stop Mahashaitan’s dark forces.

    On 26 January, Little Singham: amrit ke Rakhwale premieres, featuring Little Singham and his team fighting to protect the sacred amrit of Garuda. Packed with suspense, the story follows Little Singham teaming up with Gari, an injured eagle warrior, to save the day.

    Discovery Kids kicks off the year with the Zamana Titoo Ka movie premiering on 26 January at 12:30 pm. Titoo, the brave protagonist, embarks on an electrifying journey to stop the sinister Tornado from turning humanity into machines.

    1    Fans can also enjoy daily episodes of Titoo at 12:30 pm and 8:30 pm, featuring more exciting adventures with Titoo and his futuristic robot companion.

    January promises an unmatched entertainment experience for kids as Cartoon Network, Pogo, and Discovery Kids deliver a mix of humour, action, and heartwarming moments. Whether it’s Lamput’s escapades, Chhota Bheem’s battles, or Titoo’s adventures, young viewers are in for an epic treat.

  • Nick Nikolov launches GLE – Global Light Entertainment LLC

    Nick Nikolov launches GLE – Global Light Entertainment LLC

    MUMBAI: Dubai-based media & entertainment executive Nick Nikolov has launched his own firm  GLE – Global Light Entertainment LLC, and announcement he mad recently on Linkedin. As its CEO, Nikolov  aims to forge strategic collaborations with telecom and TV operators, driving a new era of engaging and accessible TV entertainment.

    “My idea is to  steer GLE toward fostering innovative partnerships and redefining television entertainment globally,” he said. 

    Based in the United Arab Emirates, Nikolov brings decades of expertise in content strategy, business development, and media production. 

    Nikolov’s extensive career spans more than two decades, highlighted by pivotal roles such as CEO of Global Network TV Channels, and managing director of Sky Pal Network. His diverse portfolio includes leading content strategies for pay TV, IPTV, OTT, and VOD platforms, reflecting a profound understanding of the evolving media landscape.

    He also established and managed Mimyuni Media Entertainment Ltd., an influential media company where he served for nearly 16 years, delivering premium media solutions across international markets.

    Prior to getting into television, Nikolov worked for more than fifteen years in advertising and marketing in agencies and companies like Mondelez, L’Oreal, O&M, M&C Saatchi, in Russia, Europe and London. 

    A strong advocate for lifelong learning, Nikolov holds advanced degrees in business administration, NLP business communications, and film/TV production from prestigious institutions like London Business School, NLP University New York, and London Film Academy. His cinematic background, coupled with his business acumen, uniquely positions him to bridge creative and operational aspects in the entertainment sector
     

  • DP World ILT20 Season 3 opens with a star-studded ceremony at Dubai International Stadium

    DP World ILT20 Season 3 opens with a star-studded ceremony at Dubai International Stadium

    MUMBAI: The highly anticipated DP World ILT20 Season 3 kicked off in grand style at the Dubai International Stadium. Indian cinema stars Shahid Kapoor, Pooja Hegde, and Sonam Bajwa lit up the stage with an electrifying performance during the opening ceremony, thrilling fans who packed the iconic ‘Ring of Fire’ for a night of spectacular entertainment.

     

    Hosted by Bollywood actor-producer Jackky Bhagnani and popular host Ridhima Pathak, the event concluded with a dazzling fireworks display that marked the beginning of the cricket season. 

    The tournament opener saw Dubai Capitals face off against defending champions MI Emirates in a rematch of last year’s final. MI Emirates won the toss and chose to bowl first, with the opening ball bowled at 8:45 pm IST.

    The action-packed tournament is broadcast live on Zee’s 15 linear TV channels, including &Pictures SD, Zee Cinema HD, Zee Telugu HD, and more, as well as the OTT platform Zee5. Fans can also catch the action via Zee’s syndication partners’ TV and digital networks.

    Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd  chief growth officer – digital & broadcast revenue Ashish Sehgal,  shared his excitement about the launch: “The opening ceremony exceeded all expectations! The fusion of world-class cricket, entertainment, and passionate fans watching on Zee platforms made it an unforgettable evening. We’re thrilled to bring this premium sports and entertainment content to a global audience.”

    DP World ILT20 Season 3 features top international cricketers, including Nicholas Pooran, Sikandar Raza, Sunil Narine, Lockie Ferguson, and many others, making it a month-long cricket fest filled with thrilling action.

  • Live Times founder Dilip Kumar Singh and his news story

    Live Times founder Dilip Kumar Singh and his news story

    MUMBAI: This is a news channel that seems to be getting Indian viewers’ attention. At least if one goes by BARC numbers for average time spent  (ATS) among the 15+ demographic.

    A press release issued by Live Times, says the global multicast news hub, managed to get an ATS of around 10 minutes  across India and Hindi speaking markets in the past four weeks.The ATS for urban areas like Mumbai was at a remarkable 21 minutes while for Delhi it was  over eight minutes in week 51.  

    “The exceptional ATS numbers are a testament to the trust and loyalty of our viewers, who turn to us for news that not only respects their intelligence but also prioritises the truth. This accomplishment strongly affirms Live Times’ commitment to providing news that people can rely on. Our audience seeks more than just headlines; they desire information that empowers, educates, and inspires,” says Live Times founder & CEO Dilip Kumar Singh. 

    According to him, Live Times’ success is rooted in its unique value proposition—delivering real-time, authentic and accurate news and information that connects deeply with audiences across demographics. With a steadfast commitment to uncovering the truth and addressing public issues that matter, Live Times has become a beacon of reliable news for millions, adds Singh. 

    He points out that at Live Times, it’s all about the interest of viewers. Flagship shows like Live Pradesh, Delhi Ke Dil Mein Kya Hai, and Live Express bring the news closer to home, diving into the stories that shape the audience’s day and impact their future. “Whether it’s breaking headlines, in-depth analyses, or uncovering the stories behind the scenes, Live Times delivers journalism that connects and empowers.” he says. 

    Singh believes that “for advertisers, Live Times offers a golden opportunity to connect with an engaged, diverse audience. By aligning with a platform rooted in integrity and trust, brands can ensure their message resonates deeply and authentically.”

    Are  advertisers listening?

  • Aditya Narayan transitions from Disney Star India to JioStar as regional sales head

    Aditya Narayan transitions from Disney Star India to JioStar as regional sales head

    MUMBAI: He’s got a premium job at JioStar. Aditya Narayan has just transitioned from Disney Star India  to the Uday Shankar-headed behemoth continuing with his earlier designation as regional sales head.

    At Disney Star India,  Aditya  spearheaded sales strategies for over three and a half years. His tenure there was marked by remarkable success in developing key partnerships and driving sales across multiple domains. At JioStar he has been charged with  integrated selling and raising revenue for premium sports  from the south. 

    Aditya’s professional journey also includes significant contributions at ByteDance India, where he led monetisation efforts, and Rajasthan Patrika, where he helmed business operations for Patrika TV. Notably, he  played a pivotal role in launching the Magicbricks Now channel during his time at the Times Network, showcasing his ability to lead large-scale projects with finesse. Following Times Network, he did short stints with Network18 and BTVI. 

    Throughout his career, Aditya has built a reputation for strategic thinking, interpersonal communication, and his ability to adapt to dynamic market conditions. His hands-on approach and visionary mindset have consistently delivered exceptional results, making him a trusted leader in the sales domain.

    In the early part of his career, Aditya spent almost four years working  in sales for FM radio stations beginning with Radio Mirchi (a year), followed by  Radio City (a  year nine months)  and then with RadiOne (a year and five months).

    As he steps into his new role at JioStar, Aditya is poised to bring his experience to the table, leveraging his deep understanding of the premium sports market to drive regional sales growth.

  • Disney restructures EMEA operations; appoints Tony Chambers as region president

    Disney restructures EMEA operations; appoints Tony Chambers as region president

    Mumbai: The Walt Disney Co has announced the appointment of Tony Chambers as president, of its EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) operations, as part of a strategic restructuring of its entertainment businesses in the region. Chambers will report to Disney Entertainment co-chairmen Alan Bergman and Dana Walden, as well as ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro. Chambers will be vacating his current job as head of global theatrical distribution. Current EMEA president Jan Koeppen will step down in February as part of the transition.

    In the new structure, several of the company’s lines of business in the region, including direct-to-consumer, ad sales, platform distribution, networks, local original content, studio marketing, theatrical distribution and sports will now report directly in to the global business leaders of those businesses, who will have P&L oversight for their respective regional businesses in EMEA.

    The regional president – in this case,  Chambers – will continue to be the company’s representative in the region and be responsible for consolidating strategic priorities and financials and coordinating teams at the regional level, leading local initiatives that span across businesses (excluding Disney Experiences), and overseeing shared service functions including human resources, communications, and finance.

    “EMEA is a key region in terms of the success of our business globally, and as we realign our strategy for our entertainment businesses there, we are fortunate to transition between two fantastic leaders,” said Bergman, Walden, and Pitaro in a joint statement. “Tony Chambers is a seasoned senior executive who has a highly collaborative style and stellar reputation in EMEA and across the company. He brings a wealth of experience to this important new role. We look forward to continuing to accelerate our growth in EMEA and around the world, and we are immensely grateful for Jan’s exceptional contributions, which have made a meaningful and enduring difference to this team and the company during his tenure.”

    Expressing his enthusiasm for the new role, Chambers commented, “I’m truly honored to be leading the world-class EMEA team in this new capacity. It’s a dynamic region that has gone through incredible, positive change over the past several years, and I’m very eager now to build on that momentum.”

    Chambers, who is Irish, has been with Disney for over 30 years and  has had a lot of experience in the EMEA having looked after studio sales and distribution, theatrical, home entertainment in various capacities for either Europe or the region. 

    Outgoing president Jan Koeppen reflected on his tenure, saying, “I’m grateful for the incredible six years I have had at Disney, working with some of the most talented and creative people in the industry through a period of profound transformation and growth as we launched and established Disney+ in the region. I leave with a full heart and with great pride in the exceptional Disney EMEA team.”

    As Tony Chambers steps into his new role, Disney is set to announce a new global head of theatrical distribution in the near future, further strengthening its leadership team for continued growth and innovation in the region and beyond.

  • Annapurna Studios launches India’s first Dolby Vision facility on its fiftieth anniversary

    Annapurna Studios launches India’s first Dolby Vision facility on its fiftieth anniversary

    MUMBAI:  Celebrating 50 years of cinematic excellence, Annapurna Studios has introduced India’s first Dolby Vision grading and mastering facility for Dolby Cinema and Home. The state-of-the-art facility, located within its post-production department, is poised to revolutionise visual storytelling by offering cutting-edge technology for filmmakers.

    The  launch event on 9  January was graced by legendary filmmaker S.S. Rajamouli, who inaugurated the advanced addition to the iconic studio.

     

    SS Rajamouli

    Speaking on the occasion, Rajamouli, whose Academy award-winning RRR was the first Indian film released in Dolby Cinema, commended Annapurna Studios for its steadfast commitment to innovation and for setting new benchmarks in the Indian entertainment industry. Said he: “During the time of RRR, when we wanted to grade the film in Dolby Vision, we had to travel to Germany. It was disheartening not to experience my film in Dolby Vision in my own country. But today, I’m thrilled to see a Dolby Vision grading facility at Annapurna Studios. Watching a film in Dolby Vision is an entirely different experience—the crystal-clear clarity and enhanced nuances elevate storytelling. I can’t wait for audiences to experience it!”

    Film star Akkineni  Nagarjuna who is vice-chairman Annapurna Studios was also present on the occasion. He said: “”From pioneering virtual production to housing India’s first Dolby-certified postproduction facility, our goal has always been to put Indian films on the map. This collaboration with Dolby reaffirms our legacy of embracing change and innovation. This facility underscores our dedication to advancing the creative process and providing filmmakers with tools that deliver unparalleled quality and immersive experiences for audiences.”

    Annapurna Studios executive director, Supriya Yarlagadda noted the transformative potential of the new facility, “With this Dolby-certified facility, we are redefining how films are created and experienced. Our goal is to empower filmmakers to tell their stories with unparalleled precision and impact.”

    Established in 1975 by Nagarjuna’s father,  Akkineni Nageswara Rao, Annapurna Studios has been a cornerstone of Indian cinema, especially for those emerging from the south of India.  Spanning 22 acres in the heart of Hyderabad, the studio offers an end-to-end filmmaking ecosystem where creators can turn their scripts into finished films. Over the decades, the studio has continually evolved to meet the growing needs of the film industry, cementing its reputation as a hub of creativity and innovation.

    Akkineni NagarjunaThe launch event

    The post-production  facility is led by the chief technology officer CV Rao, who has been with Annapurna Studios for nearly 14 years now. “It’s a proud moment for us,” he said, a grin on his ever smiling face as he looked at the guests who had come to the inauguration.

    The Dolby Vision grading and mastering facility is the result of a partnership with Dolby Laboratories, renowned for its ground breaking advancements in audio and visual technology.

    The team at Annapurna has been gradually exposing the addition  to different technical craftsmen involved in the post-production process. On 10 January, colorists were explained – through a master class  – the workflow  involved in  working on the Dolby Vision grading and mastering facility for Dolby Cinema and Home 

  • TV Today Network to turn off its Ishq 104.8 FM radio operations

    TV Today Network to turn off its Ishq 104.8 FM radio operations

    MUMBAI: The TV Today Network has  lost all the love it once had for the  FM radio business under the brand of IshqFM  (romantic love) 104.8  FM. 

    The company, on 9 January 2025, informed the Bombay stock exchange, that its board of has approved the closure of its IshqFM radio broadcasting operation, which includes three stations in Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata. The decision, announced at a board meeting on January 9, is subject to regulatory approvals and compliance requirements, with the shutdown expected to occur within one to six months.

    The FM radio business contributed a turnover of Rs 16.18 crore in FY 2023-24, representing 1.7 per cent of the company’s total turnover for the year. However, it reported a net loss of Rs 19.53 crore during the same period.

    In a statement, the board cited the challenging state of the FM radio industry and its evolving dynamics as key reasons behind the decision. “The board of directors considered it in the better interest of the company to close this business rather than continue operations,” the statement said.

    The move aligns with TV Today Network’s strategic focus on its core media and broadcasting ventures, as the FM radio segment has struggled to remain profitable in a competitive and shifting landscape.

  • Sony Sports Network unveils Australian Open 2025 coverage across India

    Sony Sports Network unveils Australian Open 2025 coverage across India

    MUMBAI: As the sun rises over Melbourne Park, the echoes of rackets and roars of the crowd signal the dawn of Grand Slam week—a tennis fan’s ultimate dream.

    Sony Sports Network is all set to serve an ace with exclusive live coverage of the Australian Open 2025, running from 12-26 January.

    From the thrill of a five-set marathon to the elegance of a perfectly executed backhand, fans can experience it all in English, Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu, bringing the action closer to every corner of India.

    With marquee sponsors like Rolex, Amul, Kia Motors, and Apple rallying alongside, Sony promises a broadcast that’s as electrifying as a match point on Rod Laver Arena.

    The tournament will kick off on Sunday, 12 January, a strategic adjustment aimed at enhancing the experience for both players and fans by reducing late-night match strain. Viewers can expect thrilling performances from top players, including defending champion Jannik Sinner, 10-time winner Novak Djokovic, and women’s World No.1 Aryna Sabalenka.

    In addition to Sinner and Djokovic, players like Alexander Zverev (World No.2), Carlos Alcaraz (World No.3), Taylor Fritz (World No.4), and Daniil Medvedev (World No.4) will compete for glory. The women’s draw features fierce competition with Iga Swiatek (World No.2) vying for the title. Adding to the excitement is the return of Nick Kyrgios, aiming to make a triumphant comeback.

    Indian players will also feature prominently, with Rohan Bopanna, Sumit Nagal, Yuki Bhambri, and Sriram Balaji participating. Rithvik Bollipalli, ranked 72 in doubles, will make his Grand Slam debut, building on his successful 2024 season, which included his first ATP Tour title.

    The exclusive broadcast will feature EXTRAAA SERVE, a panel of experts including Sania Mirza, Somdev Devvarman, and Purav Raja, who will deliver insights and analysis.

    Mirza expressed excitement about the competition, stating, “I have some of my fondest memories at the Australian Open and I look forward to being back in the expert’s chair for Sony Sports Network’s EXTRAAA SERVE. I am also excited to watch the 2025 season, as Rohan Bopanna and Sumit Nagal will represent India. The competition is about to get more interesting as this season will bring lots of opportunities, whether it’s for Jannik Sinner, who looks to defend his title or its Novak Djokovic, who is looking to restore his past glory. Adding to the Melbourne heat will be the contest between Aryna Sabalenka and Iga Swiatek.”

    Devvarman praised the network’s efforts, saying, “Over the years, Sony Sports Network has become the home for the Australian Open and it gives me immense pleasure to return to the commentary box and the studio chair for yet another exciting season. The 2025 edition of the tournament will set the tone for the upcoming Australian Open tournaments and other Grand Slams especially when it comes to the next legend in tennis.”

    Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI), chief revenue officer – distribution and international business and head – sports business, Rajesh Kaul commented, “The Australian Open has established itself as the preferred Grand Slam among Indian tennis fans, differentiated by its entertainment quotient and the presence of top-seeded players. It is the most watched Grand Slam on linear television over the last three years. We are committed to continuing this momentum and delivering premier tennis action to our Indian audiences. The response from advertisers has been exceptionally positive, with prestigious brands such as Rolex, Kia Motors, Apple and more joining us for this remarkable tournament.”

    Sony Sports Network’s #WHEREGREATNESSBEGINS campaign celebrates the tournament as a platform for unearthing future tennis legends.

    Fans can catch the live action on Sony Sports Ten 5 SD & HD, Sony Sports Ten 2 SD & HD, Sony Sports Ten 3 SD & HD (Hindi), and Sony Sports Ten 4 SD & HD (English). Matches will also be live-streamed on Sony LIV, starting 5:30 am IST daily.