History Television
Launches New On-Air Look
  

broadcastermagazine.com
April 30, 2008

"History means different things to different people, and that's reflected in this new look," says Kevin Watson, Creative Director of History Television. "Our audience is really reacting to the evolution of our programming; it entertains, enlightens, and uses modern techniques to tell stories. It's the perfect time to update our on-air branding to reflect the new programming and direction of the channel."

The new logo, which is a modern take on the current, has a brighter and bolder colour scheme with a new updated font. The new on-air packaging's slick new navigational elements evoke the gaming and graphic novel styles that make contemporary historical recreations so popular. As well, a new series of on-air elements detail important events and happenings of the day, from the past to the present. The events range from space landings and historical battles to the lives and deaths of notable figures, from explorers of yesteryear to modern-day celebrities.

With the new look launches new programming that continues the channel's encompassing view of history as events and experiences from ancient times to the immediate past. Final 24, a Canadian series examining the final day in the life of famous— or infamous— personalities begins on May 9. The military-based drama NCIS, starring Mark Harmon, begins May 19 and a new Monday night film block begins on June 16. Continuing History Television's success with movies, which are the top performers across all demos, Monday nights will now feature hit Hollywood blockbusters like Alexander and Kingdom of Heaven.

The new, more modern programming has helped both History Television's audience and reach grow since Winter 2006, with AMA increasing by 15% for Adults 25-54. Contemporary, entertaining programs like the award-winning drama Rome, Aftermath (which was the highest-rated special in History Television's history) and viewer-favourite Dogfights have also helped History Television increase its numbers in younger demos, growing the Adults 18-49 audience by 28% in the past two years, and the Women's 25-54 viewership by 46% in the same period.

All elements for the new look were conceptualized, designed and executed in-house by the Canwest Broadcasting Creative Agency.

http://www.history.ca/

http://www.broadcastermagazine.com/issues/ISArticle.asp?id=83700&issue=04302008