(Go: >> BACK << -|- >> HOME <<)
Jump to content

Super Channel (Canadian TV channel): Difference between revisions

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Browse history interactively
← Previous edit
Content deleted Content added
VisualWikitext
→‎External links: rm deadlink
m v2.05b - Bot T19 CW#25 - Fix errors for CW project (Heading hierarchy - Reference before punctuation)
 
(20 intermediate revisions by 16 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
{{short description|Canadian premium TV channel}}
{{short description|Canadian premium TV channel}}
{{about|the channel owned by Allarco Entertainment|the pay cable service 1983–1984 and 1989–2001|Movie Central}}
{{about|the channel owned by Allarco Entertainment|the pay cable service 1983–1984 and 1989–2001|Movie Central}}
{{redirect-distinguish|Allarco Entertainment|Allarcom}}
{{Use Canadian English|date=August 2023}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=August 2023}}
{{Infobox television channel
{{Infobox television channel
| name = Super Channel
| name = Super Channel Entertainment Network
| logo = Super Channel (Canada) logo.svg
| logo = Super Channel (Canada) logo.svg
| logo_size =
| logo_size =
Line 17: Line 20:
| former_names =
| former_names =
| replaced =
| replaced =
| website = {{url|http://www.superchannel.ca|Super Channel}}
| website = {{url|http://www.superchannel.ca}}
| sat_serv_1 = [[Bell Satellite TV]]
| sat_chan_1 = 326–329 '''(SD)'''<br>1277–1280 '''(HD)'''
| sat_serv_2 = [[Shaw Direct]]
| sat_chan_2 = 616–619 / 260–263 '''(SD)'''<br>151 & 152 / 651 & 652 '''(HD)'''
| cable_serv_1 = Available on most Canadian cable systems
| cable_chan_1 = Consult your local cable provider for channel availability
| iptv_serv_1 = [[Fibe (Bell Aliant)|Bell Aliant Fibe TV]]
| iptv_chan_1 = 380–383 '''(SD)'''<br>582–585 '''(HD)'''
| iptv_serv_2 = [[Bell Fibe TV]]
| iptv_chan_2 = 326–329 '''(SD)'''<br>1326–1329 '''(HD)'''
| iptv_serv_3 = [[Bell MTS]]
| iptv_chan_3 = 217–220 '''(SD)'''<br>1217–1220 '''(HD)'''
| iptv_serv_4 = [[Telus TV|Optik TV]]
| iptv_chan_4 = 9417–9420 '''(SD)'''<br>417–420 '''(HD)'''
| iptv_serv_5 = [[SaskTel]]
| iptv_chan_5 = 210–213 '''(SD)'''<br>500–503 '''(HD)'''
| iptv_serv_6 = [[Vmedia|VMedia]]
| iptv_chan_6 = 334–337 '''(HD)'''
| online_serv_1 = [[Amazon Prime|Amazon Prime Channels]]
| online_serv_1 = [[Amazon Prime|Amazon Prime Channels]]
| online_chan_1 = [[Over-the-top media services|Over-the-top TV]]
| online_chan_1 = [[Over-the-top media services|Over-the-top TV]]
| online_serv_2 = [[Roku]]
| online_chan_2 = [[Over-the-top media service|Over-the-top TV]]
| online_serv_3 = [[RiverTV]]
| online_chan_3 = [[Over-the-top media service|Over-the-top TV]]
}}
}}
'''Super Channel Entertainment Network''' (Formally and commonly known as '''Super Channel''') is a [[Television in Canada|Canadian]] [[English language]] [[Premium television|premium]] [[cable television|cable]] and [[satellite television]] [[television channel|channel]] owned by Allarco Entertainment 2008 Inc. Super Channel's programming primarily includes theatrically released, first to television [[Feature film|motion pictures]] and [[television program|television series]], along with documentaries and other niche programs.
'''Super Channel Entertainment Network''' (Formally and commonly known as '''Super Channel''') is a [[Television in Canada|Canadian]] [[English language]] [[Premium television|premium]] [[cable television|cable]] and [[satellite television]] [[television channel|channel]] owned by Allarco Entertainment 2008 Inc. Super Channel's programming primarily includes theatrically released, first to television [[Feature film|motion pictures]] and [[television program|television series]], along with documentaries and other niche programs.


The current Super Channel service was launched in 2007, and is not affiliated with the two pre-existing English-language premium channels which used the name at various times prior to 2001, which were later known as [[Movie Central]] (in [[Western Canada]]; defunct since March 2016) and [[The Movie Network]] (in [[Eastern Canada]]; merged with and relaunched as [[CraveTV|Crave]] in 2018). The Allards were the original owners of Movie Central, and later re-acquired rights to the Superchannel trademark. Prior to 2016, Super Channel was the first and only general-interest English-language pay television service authorized to operate nationally. [[Family Channel (Canadian TV network)|Family Channel]] (with its multiplex channel [[Family Jr.]]) was the only other national pay television channel, though it operated as a de facto basic tier [[specialty channel]] in most areas and on some providers.
The current Super Channel service was launched in 2007, and is not affiliated with the two pre-existing English-language premium channels which used the name at various times prior to 2001, which were later known as [[Movie Central]] (in [[Western Canada]]; defunct since March 2016) and [[The Movie Network]] (in [[Eastern Canada]]; merged with [[CraveTV]] and rebranded as [[Crave (TV network)|Crave]] in 2018). The Allards were the original owners of Movie Central, and later re-acquired rights to the Superchannel trademark.


Prior to 2016, Super Channel was the first and only general-interest English-language pay television service authorized to operate nationally. [[Family Channel (Canadian TV network)|Family Channel]] (with its multiplex channel [[Family Jr.]]) was the only other national pay television channel, though it currently operates as a de facto basic tier [[specialty channel]].
⚫
Super Channel is available on nearly all major cable and satellite providers including [[Telus TV|Telus Optik TV]], [[Bell Satellite TV]], [[Shaw Direct]], [[Access Communications]], [[Cogeco]], [[Rogers Cable]], [[Shaw Communications|Shaw Cable]], [[Eastlink (company)|Eastlink]] and other providers. Super Channel was granted as a "must carry" service by the [[Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission]] (CRTC), meaning all television service providers must carry the service on their systems.

⚫
Super Channel is available on nearly all major cable, IPTV and satellite providers including [[Telus TV|Telus Optik TV]], [[Bell Satellite TV]], [[Shaw Direct]], [[Access Communications]], [[Cogeco]], [[Rogers Cable]], [[Shaw Communications|Shaw Cable]], [[Eastlink (company)|Eastlink]], [[SaskTel]], Westman Communications, [[Bell MTS]], [[Novus Entertainment|Novus]], [[Vmedia|VMedia]], [[RiverTV]], [[Amazon Channels]], [[Apple TV Channels]] and other providers. Super Channel was granted as a "must carry" service by the [[Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission]] (CRTC), meaning all television service providers must carry the service on their systems.


==History==
==History==
===Pre-Launch===
===Background and Pre-Launch===
[[File:SC Corporate.png|thumb|Super Channel original logo from 2007 to 2018]]
[[File:SC Corporate.png|thumb|Super Channel original logo from 2007 to 2018]]
⚫
The Allard family were the original owners of [[Movie Central]], which during their stewardship until 2001 was known as "Superchannel" (rendered as a single word title). For a time in the 1980s, First Choice (now the [[Crave (TV network)|Pay TV]] counterpart to the [[CraveTV|Crave]] streaming service) had also used the "Superchannel" name under a [[The Movie Network#History|co-branding agreement]]). The "Movie Central" name was adopted shortly after [[Corus Entertainment]] acquired the service, but Corus maintained ownership of the "Superchannel" trademark. Just before the new channel's launch, the Allards re-acquired the rights to the "Superchannel" name under undisclosed terms.<ref name="shecter">[http://www.canada.com/nationalpost/financialpost/story.html?id=91875756-47c3-4b4d-b008-90d225555702&k=72765 Is this a new pay-TV service or a rerun?], Barbara Shecter, ''[[National Post]]'', July 30, 2007</ref>

Allarco was one of four applicants for new pay television licences that were considered at a public hearing held by the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission on October 24, 2005.<ref>[http://www.crtc.gc.ca/eng/archive/2005/n2005-6.htm Broadcasting Notice of Public Hearing CRTC 2005-6] July 21, 2005</ref> Its competing applicants were:
Allarco was one of four applicants for new pay television licences that were considered at a public hearing held by the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission on October 24, 2005.<ref>[http://www.crtc.gc.ca/eng/archive/2005/n2005-6.htm Broadcasting Notice of Public Hearing CRTC 2005-6] July 21, 2005</ref> Its competing applicants were:
* BOOMTV, to be operated by the [[Archambault]] unit of [[Quebecor Media]]. While it was expected to compete directly with the existing general-interest services – [[The Movie Network]] and [[Movie Central]] (TMN/MC) in English Canada and [[Super Écran]] (SE) in French Canada – Archambault indicated that its services would have regularly favoured first-run dramatic series. Archambault was also the only applicant for a French-language service, but indicated that this licence would be worthless without an English counterpart.<ref>[http://www.crtc.gc.ca/public/broad/applications/2005/2005-0451-5%20_2005-0755-1.zip BOOMTV licence applications]</ref>
* BOOMTV, to be operated by the [[Archambault]] unit of [[Quebecor Media]]. While it was expected to compete directly with the existing general-interest services – [[Crave (TV network)|The Movie Network]] (now Crave) and [[Movie Central]] (TMN/MC) in English Canada and [[Super Écran]] (SE) in French Canada – Archambault indicated that its services would have regularly favoured first-run dramatic series. Archambault was also the only applicant for a French-language service, but indicated that this licence would be worthless without an English counterpart.<ref>[http://www.crtc.gc.ca/public/broad/applications/2005/2005-0451-5%20_2005-0755-1.zip BOOMTV licence applications]</ref>
* The Canadian Film Channel, proposed by [[Channel Zero Inc.]] It proposed to broadcast 100% [[Canadian content]] and be funded entirely by the operators of TMN/MC, in an amount equal to 12.9% of these services' gross revenues, to be required by condition of licence. Neither incumbent indicated approval for such a use of its revenues.<ref>[http://www.crtc.gc.ca/public/broad/applications/2005/2005-0452-3.zip TCFC licence application]</ref>
* The Canadian Film Channel, proposed by [[Channel Zero Inc.]] It proposed to broadcast 100% [[Canadian content]] and be funded entirely by the operators of TMN/MC, in an amount equal to 12.9% of these services' gross revenues, to be required by condition of licence. Neither incumbent indicated approval for such a use of its revenues.<ref>[http://www.crtc.gc.ca/public/broad/applications/2005/2005-0452-3.zip TCFC licence application]</ref>
* Spotlight Television, to be controlled by [[George Burger]], a former executive at Alliance Television, and professional sports mogul [[Larry Tanenbaum]], chairman of the private investment company [[Kilmer Van Nostrand]], which proposed a premium service much in the same vein as The Movie Network/Movie Central.<ref>[http://www.crtc.gc.ca/public/broad/applications/2004/2004-0991-3.zip Spotlight licence application]</ref> It is believed that, had Spotlight's application been successful, it would have been branded as a Canadian version of the American service [[HBO]]; an "[[HBO (Canadian TV channel)|HBO Canada]]" channel was launched in October 2008 under the auspices of TMN/MC.<ref>[https://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/LAC.20080923.RHBO23/TPStory/Business HBO Canada coming, but with a catch], Grant Robertson, ''[[The Globe and Mail]]'', September 23, 2008</ref>
* Spotlight Television, to be controlled by [[George Burger]], a former executive at Alliance Television, and professional sports mogul [[Larry Tanenbaum]], chairman of the private investment company [[Kilmer Van Nostrand]], which proposed a premium service much in the same vein as The Movie Network/Movie Central.<ref>[http://www.crtc.gc.ca/public/broad/applications/2004/2004-0991-3.zip Spotlight licence application]</ref> It is believed that, had Spotlight's application been successful, it would have been branded as a Canadian version of the American service [[HBO]]; an "[[HBO (Canadian TV channel)|HBO Canada]]" channel was launched in October 2008 under the auspices of TMN/MC.<ref>[https://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/LAC.20080923.RHBO23/TPStory/Business HBO Canada coming, but with a catch], Grant Robertson, ''[[The Globe and Mail]]'', September 23, 2008</ref>


The Allarco application was approved on May 18, 2006, while the other three applicants were rejected.<ref>[http://www.crtc.gc.ca/eng/archive/2006/db2006-193.htm Broadcasting Decision CRTC 2006-193], May 18, 2006</ref>
The Allarco application was approved on May 18, 2006, while the other three applicants were rejected.<ref>[http://www.crtc.gc.ca/eng/archive/2006/db2006-193.htm Broadcasting Decision CRTC 2006-193], May 18, 2006</ref> '''Super Channel''' would be launched on November 2, 2007, on [[Bell Satellite TV]].


⚫
===Bankruptcy ===
⚫
The Allard family were also the original owners of Movie Central, which during their stewardship until 2001 was known as "Superchannel", rendered as a single word title unlike the current service (for a time in the 1980s, First Choice (now The Movie Network) had also used the "Superchannel" name under a [[The Movie Network#History|co-branding agreement]]). The "Movie Central" name was adopted shortly after [[Corus Entertainment]] acquired the service, but Corus maintained ownership of the "Superchannel" trademark. Just before the new channel's launch, the Allards re-acquired the rights to the "Superchannel" name under undisclosed terms.<ref name="shecter">[http://www.canada.com/nationalpost/financialpost/story.html?id=91875756-47c3-4b4d-b008-90d225555702&k=72765 Is this a new pay-TV service or a rerun?], Barbara Shecter, ''[[National Post]]'', July 30, 2007</ref>
⚫
Two years after Super Channel's launch, parent company, Allarco Entertainment entered into the [[Companies' Creditors Arrangement Act]] on June 18, 2009.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/hr/content_display/world/news/e3i1cb4423097de6eb19f5d83a4defc2290 | work=The Hollywood Reporter | first=Etan | last=Vlessing | title=Super Channel files for bankruptcy protection | date=June 18, 2009}}</ref> On August 31, 2010, its creditors unanimously approved a restructuring plan for the company under the act. The restructuring plan, which needed approval of the court, was later approved.{{cn|date=August 2023}}


⚫
On May 26, 2016, Allarco filed for bankruptcy a second time. The next round of submissions to the court were due on April 21, 2017.<ref>[http://www.pwc.com/ca/en/services/insolvency-assignments/allarco.html] PWC CCAA Notice</ref> As part of this process 96 of the 135<ref>[http://playbackonline.ca/2016/10/26/inside-super-channels-post-ccaa-filing-programming-strategy/] Inside Super Channel’s post-CCAA filing programming strategy</ref> licensed content agreements for Super Channel were terminated.
Super Channel was launched on November 2, 2007, on [[Bell Satellite TV]].

⚫
===Bankruptcy and Reemergence ===
⚫
Super Channel's parent company, Allarco Entertainment, entered into the [[Companies' Creditors Arrangement Act]] on June 18, 2009.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/hr/content_display/world/news/e3i1cb4423097de6eb19f5d83a4defc2290 | work=The Hollywood Reporter | first=Etan | last=Vlessing | title=Super Channel files for bankruptcy protection | date=June 18, 2009}}</ref> On August 31, 2010, its creditors unanimously approved a restructuring plan for the company under the act. The restructuring plan, which needed approval of the court,<ref>[http://www.digitaljournal.com/pr/104020 Allarco Entertainment 2008 (Super Channel) plan meets creditors approval], Digital Journal, 31 August 2010</ref> was later approved.

⚫
On May 26, 2016, Allarco filed for bankruptcy a second time. The next round of submissions to the court are due April 21, 2017 meaning the creditor protection is still open.<ref>[http://www.pwc.com/ca/en/services/insolvency-assignments/allarco.html] PWC CCAA Notice</ref> As part of this process 96 of the 135<ref>[http://playbackonline.ca/2016/10/26/inside-super-channels-post-ccaa-filing-programming-strategy/] Inside Super Channel’s post-CCAA filing programming strategy</ref> licensed content agreements were terminated.


On February 15, 2017, it was announced that a Canadian version of [[Ginx TV]] would launch as a replacement for one of Super Channel's multiplex channels.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/first-24-hour-esports-channel-to-launch-in-canada-613844823.html | work=Canada NewsWire |title=First 24-hour eSports Channel to Launch in Canada | date=June 18, 2009}}</ref> Replacing Super Channel 4, '''Ginx eSports TV Canada''' launched on May 4, 2017, with a live Canadian edition of ''The Bridge'', a late night talk show.<ref>{{citation| url=https://www.c21media.net/super-channel-kicks-off-esports-net/ | title=Super Channel kicks off eSports net | date=May 5, 2017}}</ref>
On February 15, 2017, it was announced that a Canadian version of [[Ginx TV]] would launch as a replacement for one of Super Channel's multiplex channels.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/first-24-hour-esports-channel-to-launch-in-canada-613844823.html | work=Canada NewsWire |title=First 24-hour eSports Channel to Launch in Canada | date=June 18, 2009}}</ref> Replacing Super Channel 4, '''Ginx eSports TV Canada''' launched on May 4, 2017, with a live Canadian edition of ''The Bridge'', a late night talk show.<ref>{{citation| url=https://www.c21media.net/super-channel-kicks-off-esports-net/ | title=Super Channel kicks off eSports net | date=May 5, 2017}}</ref>
Line 70: Line 59:
On April 4, 2017, Super Channel announced that it would rebrand Super Channel 3 as '''Super Channel VAULT''' on April 28, 2017. The channel is described as offering programming based on "''a collection of hand-picked, fan-favourites, critically-acclaimed films."''<ref>[http://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/super-channel-vault-to-launch-april-28-618158223.html Super Channel VAULT to launch April 28] CNW press release 04-04-17</ref>
On April 4, 2017, Super Channel announced that it would rebrand Super Channel 3 as '''Super Channel VAULT''' on April 28, 2017. The channel is described as offering programming based on "''a collection of hand-picked, fan-favourites, critically-acclaimed films."''<ref>[http://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/super-channel-vault-to-launch-april-28-618158223.html Super Channel VAULT to launch April 28] CNW press release 04-04-17</ref>


=== Reemergence ===
In 2018, after emerging from creditor protection, Allarco announced the relaunch of Super Channel with the rebranding of SC1 and SC2 as '''Super Channel Fuse''' and '''Super Channel Heart & Home''' and the service adopting the '''Super Channel Entertainment Network''' branding.<ref>[http://realscreen.com/2018/04/11/allarco-exits-creditor-protection-rebrands-super-channel/ "Allarco exits creditor protection, rebrands Super Channel"]. ''RealScreen'', April 11, 2018.</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/super-channel-to-rebrand-679386373.html|title = Super Channel to rebrand}}</ref>
In 2018, after emerging from creditor protection, Allarco announced the relaunch of Super Channel with the rebranding of SC1 and SC2 as '''Super Channel Fuse''' and '''Super Channel Heart & Home''', and the service adopting the '''Super Channel Entertainment Network''' branding.<ref>[http://realscreen.com/2018/04/11/allarco-exits-creditor-protection-rebrands-super-channel/ "Allarco exits creditor protection, rebrands Super Channel"]. ''RealScreen'', April 11, 2018.</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/super-channel-to-rebrand-679386373.html|title = Super Channel to rebrand}}</ref>


In 2020, the service announced a partnership with the [[Canadian Film Festival]], to broadcast the films that had been slated to premiere at the festival prior to its cancellation due to the [[COVID-19 pandemic in Canada]].<ref>[https://www.thestar.com/entertainment/movies/2020/04/20/postponed-canadian-film-fest-finds-new-home-on-super-channel.html "Postponed Canadian Film Fest finds new home on Super Channel"]. [[Canadian Press]], April 20, 2020.</ref>
In 2020, the service announced a partnership with the [[Canadian Film Festival]] to broadcast the films that had been slated to premiere at the festival prior to its cancellation due to the [[COVID-19 pandemic in Canada]].<ref>[https://www.thestar.com/entertainment/movies/2020/04/20/postponed-canadian-film-fest-finds-new-home-on-super-channel.html "Postponed Canadian Film Fest finds new home on Super Channel"]. [[Canadian Press]], April 20, 2020.</ref>


In Fall 2023, Super Channel would expand into [[streaming media]] with launch of '''Super Channel+''' via [[Roku]] in September,<ref name="roku"/> and the '''Super Channel Uncovered''' and '''Super Channel Hearties''' [[free ad-supported streaming television|FAST]] channels in October.<ref name="tubi"/>
⚫
==Channels==


⚫
==Programming==
===List of channels===
⚫
Super Channel's main programming consists of and both theatrically released and [[made for TV]] movies, including domestically produced programming, shows acquired from U.S cable networks, foreign films, and international series.<ref>[http://www.superchannel.ca/series/ Super Channel Website]</ref><ref>[http://www.superchannel.ca/ Super Channel website]</ref>

From its launch until December 2015, Super Channel was the broadcaster for [[20th Century Studios]] films from January 2007 to February 2015.{{citation needed|date=June 2024}} [[Crave (TV network)|The Movie Network]] took over the deal in January 2016 for releases starting in March 2015. These rights were shared with [[Disney+]] in Canada, and effective 2021, sister channel [[Starz (Canadian TV channel)|Starz Canada]] broadcasts the entire back catalogue.{{citation needed|date=June 2024}}

⚫
===Channels===
{{unreferenced|section|date=June 2024}}
Depending on the service provider, Super Channel provides up to eight [[multiplex (TV)|multiplex channels]] – four 24-hour multiplex channels, all of which are simulcast in both [[standard-definition television|standard definition]] and [[high-definition television|high definition]] – as well as a [[Video on demand|subscription video-on-demand service]] (Super Channel On Demand). Super Channel broadcasts its primary channel and multiplex channels on an [[Eastern Time Zone]] schedule, operating a singular feed for all channels, this results in the [[Effects of time zones on North American broadcasting|difference in local airtimes]] for a particular movie or program between two geographic locations being three hours at most.
Depending on the service provider, Super Channel provides up to eight [[multiplex (TV)|multiplex channels]] – four 24-hour multiplex channels, all of which are simulcast in both [[standard-definition television|standard definition]] and [[high-definition television|high definition]] – as well as a [[Video on demand|subscription video-on-demand service]] (Super Channel On Demand). Super Channel broadcasts its primary channel and multiplex channels on an [[Eastern Time Zone]] schedule, operating a singular feed for all channels, this results in the [[Effects of time zones on North American broadcasting|difference in local airtimes]] for a particular movie or program between two geographic locations being three hours at most.


Line 93: Line 89:
|-
|-
|}
|}

⚫
===Other services===


====Super Channel HD====
====Super Channel HD====
'''Super Channel HD''' is a [[High-definition television|high definition]] simulcast feed of Super Channel that broadcasts in the [[1080i]] resolution format. In addition to its main channel, Super Channel also operates high definition simulcast feeds of all three multiplex channels. Initially, Allarco launched two [[High-definition television|high definition]] feeds upon the launch of the service in November 2007: Super Channel HD 1 and Super Channel HD 2. Super Channel HD 1 simulcasted the [[standard-definition television|standard definition]] feed of the same name, while Super Channel HD 2 initially aired programming from the three remaining SD feeds. In February 2013, Allarco launched HD feeds for the two remaining channels, Super Channel 3 and Super Channel 4, with each HD channel now simulcasting their standard definition equivalent.
'''Super Channel HD''' is a [[High-definition television|high definition]] simulcast feed of Super Channel that broadcasts in the [[1080i]] resolution format. In addition to its main channel, Super Channel also operates high definition simulcast feeds of all three multiplex channels. Initially, Allarco launched two [[High-definition television|high definition]] feeds upon the launch of the service in November 2007: Super Channel HD 1 and Super Channel HD 2. Super Channel HD 1 simulcast the [[standard-definition television|standard definition]] feed of the same name, while Super Channel HD 2 initially aired programming from the three remaining SD feeds. In February 2013, Allarco launched HD feeds for the two remaining channels, Super Channel 3 and Super Channel 4, with each HD channel now simulcasting their standard definition equivalent.


====Super Channel On Demand====
====Super Channel On Demand====
Super Channel operates a [[video on demand|subscription video-on-demand]] television service called '''Super Channel On Demand''', which is available at no additional charge to new and existing subscribers of Super Channel. Content featured on the service includes movies, acquired foreign series and special features previously seen on the linear television network.{{citation needed|date=July 2019}}
Super Channel operates a [[video on demand|subscription video-on-demand]] television service called '''Super Channel On Demand''', which is available at no additional charge to new and existing subscribers of Super Channel. Content featured on the service includes movies, acquired foreign series and special features previously seen on the linear television network.{{citation needed|date=July 2019}}

⚫
==Programming==
⚫
Super Channel's main programming consists of television series and both theatrically released and [[made for TV]] movies, including domestically produced programming, shows acquired from U.S cable networks, foreign films, and international series.<ref>[http://www.superchannel.ca/series/ Super Channel Website]</ref><ref>[http://www.superchannel.ca/ Super Channel website]</ref>


===Original programs===
===Original programs===
Line 115: Line 106:
*''[[Forgive Me (TV series)|Forgive Me]]''
*''[[Forgive Me (TV series)|Forgive Me]]''
*''Hollywood & Vines''
*''Hollywood & Vines''
*''[[How I Got Here]]''
*''Naked News Uncovered''
*''Naked News Uncovered''
*''The Next Take''
*''The Next Take''
Line 126: Line 118:
*''[[When Calls the Heart]]''
*''[[When Calls the Heart]]''
{{div col end}}
{{div col end}}

⚫
==Other services==

=== Super Channel+ ===
On September 25, 2023, Allarco launched a standalone subscription service for [[Roku]] devices called '''Super Channel+'''. The service offers both the linear channels and their video-on-demand content.<ref name="roku">{{cite web|url=https://playbackonline.ca/2023/09/25/super-channel-app-launches-on-roku-in-canada/|title=Super Channel+ app launches on Roku in Canada|first=Taimur Sikander|last=Mirza|work=[[Playback (magazine)|Playback]]|publisher=[[Brunico Communications]]|date=September 25, 2023|accessdate=December 30, 2023}}</ref>

=== FAST Channels ===
Allarco introduced two [[free ad-supported streaming television]] channels in October 2023 as part of [[Tubi]]'s launch of that service in Canada.<ref name="tubi">{{cite press release|url=https://corporate.tubitv.com/press/tubi-expands-offering-in-canada-launching-over-40-fast-channels-in-territory/|title=Tubi Expands Offering In Canada Launching Over 40 FAST Channels In Territory|work=[[Tubi]]|publisher=[[Fox Corporation]]|date=October 24, 2023|accessdate=December 30, 2023}}</ref> '''Super Channel Uncovered''' is themed around [[true crime]] programming, while '''Super Channel Hearties''' focuses on [[Romance film|romance]]. The two channels were added to [[Xumo]] the following month.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.xumo.com/-/media/xumo/supportv2/xumo_channel_lineup_3pg_november_2023.pdf|title=Xumo Play Channel Lineup|work=[[Xumo]]|accessdate=December 30, 2023}}</ref>


==References==
==References==
Line 138: Line 138:
[[Category:English-language television stations in Canada]]
[[Category:English-language television stations in Canada]]
[[Category:Commercial-free television networks]]
[[Category:Commercial-free television networks]]
[[Category:Companies based in Edmonton]]
[[Category:Movie channels in Canada]]
[[Category:Movie channels in Canada]]
[[Category:Television channels and stations established in 2007]]
[[Category:Television channels and stations established in 2007]]

Latest revision as of 01:57, 19 June 2024

This article is about the channel owned by Allarco Entertainment. For the pay cable service 1983–1984 and 1989–2001, see Movie Central.
"Allarco Entertainment" redirects here. Not to be confused with Allarcom.

Super Channel Entertainment Network
CountryCanada
Broadcast areaNationwide
HeadquartersEdmonton, Alberta
Programming
Language(s)English
Picture format1080i (HDTV)
480i (SDTV)
Ownership
OwnerAllarco Entertainment[1]
History
LaunchedNovember 2, 2007
Links
Websitewww.superchannel.ca
Availability
Streaming media
Amazon Prime ChannelsOver-the-top TV
RokuOver-the-top TV
RiverTVOver-the-top TV

Super Channel Entertainment Network (Formally and commonly known as Super Channel) is a Canadian English language premium cable and satellite television channel owned by Allarco Entertainment 2008 Inc. Super Channel's programming primarily includes theatrically released, first to television motion pictures and television series, along with documentaries and other niche programs.

The current Super Channel service was launched in 2007, and is not affiliated with the two pre-existing English-language premium channels which used the name at various times prior to 2001, which were later known as Movie Central (in Western Canada; defunct since March 2016) and The Movie Network (in Eastern Canada; merged with CraveTV and rebranded as Crave in 2018). The Allards were the original owners of Movie Central, and later re-acquired rights to the Superchannel trademark.

Prior to 2016, Super Channel was the first and only general-interest English-language pay television service authorized to operate nationally. Family Channel (with its multiplex channel Family Jr.) was the only other national pay television channel, though it currently operates as a de facto basic tier specialty channel.

Super Channel is available on nearly all major cable, IPTV and satellite providers including Telus Optik TV, Bell Satellite TV, Shaw Direct, Access Communications, Cogeco, Rogers Cable, Shaw Cable, Eastlink, SaskTel, Westman Communications, Bell MTS, Novus, VMedia, RiverTV, Amazon Channels, Apple TV Channels and other providers. Super Channel was granted as a "must carry" service by the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC), meaning all television service providers must carry the service on their systems.

History

[edit]

Background and Pre-Launch

[edit]
Super Channel original logo from 2007 to 2018

The Allard family were the original owners of Movie Central, which during their stewardship until 2001 was known as "Superchannel" (rendered as a single word title). For a time in the 1980s, First Choice (now the Pay TV counterpart to the Crave streaming service) had also used the "Superchannel" name under a co-branding agreement). The "Movie Central" name was adopted shortly after Corus Entertainment acquired the service, but Corus maintained ownership of the "Superchannel" trademark. Just before the new channel's launch, the Allards re-acquired the rights to the "Superchannel" name under undisclosed terms.[2]

Allarco was one of four applicants for new pay television licences that were considered at a public hearing held by the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission on October 24, 2005.[3] Its competing applicants were:

  • BOOMTV, to be operated by the Archambault unit of Quebecor Media. While it was expected to compete directly with the existing general-interest services – The Movie Network (now Crave) and Movie Central (TMN/MC) in English Canada and Super Écran (SE) in French Canada – Archambault indicated that its services would have regularly favoured first-run dramatic series. Archambault was also the only applicant for a French-language service, but indicated that this licence would be worthless without an English counterpart.[4]
  • The Canadian Film Channel, proposed by Channel Zero Inc. It proposed to broadcast 100% Canadian content and be funded entirely by the operators of TMN/MC, in an amount equal to 12.9% of these services' gross revenues, to be required by condition of licence. Neither incumbent indicated approval for such a use of its revenues.[5]
  • Spotlight Television, to be controlled by George Burger, a former executive at Alliance Television, and professional sports mogul Larry Tanenbaum, chairman of the private investment company Kilmer Van Nostrand, which proposed a premium service much in the same vein as The Movie Network/Movie Central.[6] It is believed that, had Spotlight's application been successful, it would have been branded as a Canadian version of the American service HBO; an "HBO Canada" channel was launched in October 2008 under the auspices of TMN/MC.[7]

The Allarco application was approved on May 18, 2006, while the other three applicants were rejected.[8] Super Channel would be launched on November 2, 2007, on Bell Satellite TV.

Bankruptcy

[edit]

Two years after Super Channel's launch, parent company, Allarco Entertainment entered into the Companies' Creditors Arrangement Act on June 18, 2009.[9] On August 31, 2010, its creditors unanimously approved a restructuring plan for the company under the act. The restructuring plan, which needed approval of the court, was later approved.[citation needed]

On May 26, 2016, Allarco filed for bankruptcy a second time. The next round of submissions to the court were due on April 21, 2017.[10] As part of this process 96 of the 135[11] licensed content agreements for Super Channel were terminated.

On February 15, 2017, it was announced that a Canadian version of Ginx TV would launch as a replacement for one of Super Channel's multiplex channels.[12] Replacing Super Channel 4, Ginx eSports TV Canada launched on May 4, 2017, with a live Canadian edition of The Bridge, a late night talk show.[13]

On February 22, 2017, Super Channel announced it had acquired the Canadian broadcast rights to the Legends Football League, as part of a three-year deal in which Super Channel will be the exclusive Canadian broadcaster of all LFL games through the 2019 season. The LFL will be used to launch the "Super Channel SPORTS" sub-brand that will be used for all sporting events and sports-themed programming.[14] Super Channel 1 debuted LFL Football Night on April 22, 2017.[15]

On April 4, 2017, Super Channel announced that it would rebrand Super Channel 3 as Super Channel VAULT on April 28, 2017. The channel is described as offering programming based on "a collection of hand-picked, fan-favourites, critically-acclaimed films."[16]

Reemergence

[edit]

In 2018, after emerging from creditor protection, Allarco announced the relaunch of Super Channel with the rebranding of SC1 and SC2 as Super Channel Fuse and Super Channel Heart & Home, and the service adopting the Super Channel Entertainment Network branding.[17][18]

In 2020, the service announced a partnership with the Canadian Film Festival to broadcast the films that had been slated to premiere at the festival prior to its cancellation due to the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada.[19]

In Fall 2023, Super Channel would expand into streaming media with launch of Super Channel+ via Roku in September,[20] and the Super Channel Uncovered and Super Channel Hearties FAST channels in October.[21]

Programming

[edit]

Super Channel's main programming consists of and both theatrically released and made for TV movies, including domestically produced programming, shows acquired from U.S cable networks, foreign films, and international series.[22][23]

From its launch until December 2015, Super Channel was the broadcaster for 20th Century Studios films from January 2007 to February 2015.[citation needed] The Movie Network took over the deal in January 2016 for releases starting in March 2015. These rights were shared with Disney+ in Canada, and effective 2021, sister channel Starz Canada broadcasts the entire back catalogue.[citation needed]

Channels

[edit]

Depending on the service provider, Super Channel provides up to eight multiplex channels – four 24-hour multiplex channels, all of which are simulcast in both standard definition and high definition – as well as a subscription video-on-demand service (Super Channel On Demand). Super Channel broadcasts its primary channel and multiplex channels on an Eastern Time Zone schedule, operating a singular feed for all channels, this results in the difference in local airtimes for a particular movie or program between two geographic locations being three hours at most.

Channel Description and programming
Super Channel Fuse This channel carries general interest movies, television series, documentaries and concerts.
Super Channel Heart & Home This channel is similar to Super Channel Fuse, but it focuses on a family-oriented selection of programming.
Super Channel Vault This channel airs a collection of hand-picked, fan-favourites, critically acclaimed films.
Ginx eSports TV Canada This channel is devoted to eSports-related programming.

Super Channel HD

[edit]

Super Channel HD is a high definition simulcast feed of Super Channel that broadcasts in the 1080i resolution format. In addition to its main channel, Super Channel also operates high definition simulcast feeds of all three multiplex channels. Initially, Allarco launched two high definition feeds upon the launch of the service in November 2007: Super Channel HD 1 and Super Channel HD 2. Super Channel HD 1 simulcast the standard definition feed of the same name, while Super Channel HD 2 initially aired programming from the three remaining SD feeds. In February 2013, Allarco launched HD feeds for the two remaining channels, Super Channel 3 and Super Channel 4, with each HD channel now simulcasting their standard definition equivalent.

Super Channel On Demand

[edit]

Super Channel operates a subscription video-on-demand television service called Super Channel On Demand, which is available at no additional charge to new and existing subscribers of Super Channel. Content featured on the service includes movies, acquired foreign series and special features previously seen on the linear television network.[citation needed]

Original programs

[edit]

Other services

[edit]

Super Channel+

[edit]

On September 25, 2023, Allarco launched a standalone subscription service for Roku devices called Super Channel+. The service offers both the linear channels and their video-on-demand content.[20]

FAST Channels

[edit]

Allarco introduced two free ad-supported streaming television channels in October 2023 as part of Tubi's launch of that service in Canada.[21] Super Channel Uncovered is themed around true crime programming, while Super Channel Hearties focuses on romance. The two channels were added to Xumo the following month.[24]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Allarco Entertainment 2008, Inc.
  2. ^ Is this a new pay-TV service or a rerun?, Barbara Shecter, National Post, July 30, 2007
  3. ^ Broadcasting Notice of Public Hearing CRTC 2005-6 July 21, 2005
  4. ^ BOOMTV licence applications
  5. ^ TCFC licence application
  6. ^ Spotlight licence application
  7. ^ HBO Canada coming, but with a catch, Grant Robertson, The Globe and Mail, September 23, 2008
  8. ^ Broadcasting Decision CRTC 2006-193, May 18, 2006
  9. ^ Vlessing, Etan (June 18, 2009). "Super Channel files for bankruptcy protection". The Hollywood Reporter.
  10. ^ [1] PWC CCAA Notice
  11. ^ [2] Inside Super Channel’s post-CCAA filing programming strategy
  12. ^ "First 24-hour eSports Channel to Launch in Canada". Canada NewsWire. June 18, 2009.
  13. ^ Super Channel kicks off eSports net, May 5, 2017
  14. ^ "Super Channel kicks off new sports programming sub-brand with the acquisition of popular US sports franchise, Legends Football League". Canada NewsWire. February 22, 2017.
  15. ^ "Super Channel Lands LFL for New Sports Sub-Brand". Worldscreen. February 22, 2017.
  16. ^ Super Channel VAULT to launch April 28 CNW press release 04-04-17
  17. ^ "Allarco exits creditor protection, rebrands Super Channel". RealScreen, April 11, 2018.
  18. ^ "Super Channel to rebrand".
  19. ^ "Postponed Canadian Film Fest finds new home on Super Channel". Canadian Press, April 20, 2020.
  20. ^ a b Mirza, Taimur Sikander (September 25, 2023). "Super Channel+ app launches on Roku in Canada". Playback. Brunico Communications. Retrieved December 30, 2023.
  21. ^ a b "Tubi Expands Offering In Canada Launching Over 40 FAST Channels In Territory". Tubi (Press release). Fox Corporation. October 24, 2023. Retrieved December 30, 2023.
  22. ^ Super Channel Website
  23. ^ Super Channel website
  24. ^ "Xumo Play Channel Lineup" (PDF). Xumo. Retrieved December 30, 2023.
[edit]
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Super_Channel_(Canadian_TV_channel)&oldid=1229854129"