EPIX Press Releases

EPIX To Unify The World Heavyweight Titles!

The Klitschko Brothers and Povetkin to Defend Their Belts on Three Consecutive Saturdays,

Beginning Feb. 18.

EPIX and EpixHD.com Snag Exclusive U.S. Rights for Live Telecasts

NEW YORK, NY (January 19, 2012) – They may not be stepping into the same ring to unify their titles but their upcoming title defenses will be televised live in the U.S. on the same network.

World heavyweight champions VITALI KLITSCHKO, ALEXANDER POVETKIN and WLADIMIR KLITSCHKO will defend their respective championship crowns over three consecutive weeks, beginning February 18, and all three world heavyweight title fights will be televised live in the U.S. exclusively on EPIX, the multiplatform premium entertainment service.  EpixHD.com will stream the fights live as part of a special free trial offer for boxing fans.

The EPIX heavyweight championship extravaganza will begin on Saturday, February 18 with Vitali Klitschko defending his World Boxing Council (WBC) title against Top-10 contender Dereck Chisora at Olympiahalle in Munich, Germany.  On Saturday, February 25, the undefeated Povetkin will defend his World Boxing Association (WBA) belt against world cruiserweight champion Marco Huck in the Porsche-Arena in Stuttgart, Germany.  The grand finale will take place on Saturday, March 3 in the ESPIRIT Arena in Düsseldorf, Germany, and will feature unified champion Wladimir Klitschko defending his World Boxing Organization (WBO), International Boxing Federation (IBF) and WBA super crowns against two-time world cruiserweight champion Jean Marc Mormeck.

These six gladiators boast a combined record of 207-12 (161 KOs) – a 94.5% winning percentage and a 78% victory by knockout ratio.

As has become the custom, EPIX will once again present the closed-captioned simulcast of the three world heavyweight championship fights on a jumbotron in Times Square (Broadway between 44th and 45th Sts.) 

“EPIX was pleased with the fan reaction to its exclusive live U.S. telecasts of Vitali Klitschko and Alexander Povetkin’s heavyweight title fights last year. Now to be able to televise live an unprecedented three-week block of the best in the heavyweight division is as exciting to EPIX as it is to U.S. boxing fans,” said Travis Pomposello, EPIX CCO and executive producer of EPIX Sports.    

Vitali Klitschko (43-2, 40 KOs), of Kiev, Ukraine, is a three-time heavyweight champion.  He claimed his first world championship belt, the WBO title, in 1999 when he knocked out defending champion Herbie Hide in the second round.  He successfully defended that title twice – both by knockout – before losing it to Chris Byrd the following year. Klitscko’s second reign began in 2004 when he won the vacant WBC title by knocking out one-time world champion Corrie Sanders in the eighth round. After successfully defending the title that same year, knocking out Danny Williams in the eighth round, Klitschko retired.  Four years later, in 2008, Klitschko returned to the ring, stopping defending WBC champion Samuel Peter in the eighth round and beginning his current reign which is now in its fourth year and has included seven successful title defenses against world champions Tomasz Adamek, Shannon Briggs and Juan Carlos Gomez as well as top-rated contenders Chris Arreola, Odlanier Solis, Kevin Johnson and Albert Sosnowski.  Only Briggs and Johnson made it the distance.

Chisora (15-3, 9 KOs), of London, returns to the ring after a career-best performance.  Last December, in a fight that was televised live in the U.S. on EPIX, Chisora, an underdog fighting outside his native United Kingdom for the first time, out-boxed undefeated No. 1 heavyweight contender Robert Helenius over 12-rounds in his native Finland only to have the judges return a narrow split decision victory to Helenius to the outrage of fans and media alike.  Chisora, the former BBBoC British heavyweight Champion and Commonwealth (British Empire) heavyweight champion boasts consecutive knockout victories of Danny Williams and Sam Sexton, who had a combined record of 54-9 when he defeated them.   

Povetkin (23-0, 16 KOs), of Russia, captured the vacant WBA heavyweight title last August, winning a gutsy unanimous decision over former WBA heavyweight champion Ruslan Chagaev, who entered the fight as the No. 1-rated contender. Povetkin, the 2004 Olympic super heavyweight gold medalist, has an impressive resume which includes a knockout victory over former two-time heavyweight champion Chris Byrd, and unanimous decision victories over one-time heavyweight title challenger Eddie Chambers and former U.S. Olympians Jason Estrada and Larry Donald.  Povetkin, who has been promoted by Sauerland Event throughout his entire professional career, enters this fight having won four of his last six bouts by knockout, which includes his most recent title defense, an eighth-round stoppage of Cedric Boswell on December 3.  All of Povetkin’s heavyweight title fights have been televised live in the U.S. on EPIX.

Huck (34-1, 25 KOs), of Berlin, Germany, enters this fight riding a four-year, 15-bout winning streak.  He captured the WBO cruiserweight crown in 2009 with a 12-round unanimous decision victory over Victor Ramirez.  Huck has successfully defended that title eight times, five by knockout.

Wladimir Klitschko (56-3, 49 KOs), of Kiev, Ukraine, is a two-time world heavyweight champion.  Wladimir began his first title reign in 2000 when he captured the WBO heavyweight title via a unanimous decision over defending champion Chris Byrd. Byrd suffered two knockdowns in that battle.  Klitschko’s two-year title reign included five successful defenses – all by knockout – before losing the belt to Corrie Sanders in 2003.  Klitschko returned to the world championship throne in 2006, this time as IBF champion, when he dethroned Chris Byrd in a title rematch.  This victory was even more emphatic than the first one with Klitschko stopping Byrd in the seventh round.  Since that fight, Klitschko has taken on and defeated all comers while unifying the title with victories over WBO champion Sultan Ibragimov, and WBA champion David Haye.  He enters this fight riding an eight-year, 14-bout winning streak.

Mormeck (36-4, 22 KOs), of Pantin, France, captured the WBA cruiserweight title in 2002, dethroning the legendary Virgil Hill who could not answer the bell for the ninth round of their championship fight.  His four-year reign as champion included three successful defenses and a title unification victory over WBC champion Wayne Braithwaite.  After losing the titles to IBF champion O’Neil Bell in 2006, he regained the WBC and WBA crowns one year later, defeating Bell in their rematch.  Since losing the cruiserweight titles to David Haye in 2007, Mormeck has moved up to the heavyweight division where he has been undefeated and is now world-rated in the Top-10.                    

About EPIX

EPIX, a joint venture between Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA and VIA.B), its Paramount Pictures unit, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc. (MGM) and Lionsgate (NYSE: LGF), is a premium entertainment service available on television, video-on-demand, online and on consumer electronic devices. With access to more than 15,000 motion pictures spanning the vast libraries of its partners and other studios, EPIX provides a powerful entertainment experience with more feature films on demand and online and more HD movies than any other service.  It is the only premium service providing its entire monthly line-up of new Hollywood hits, classic feature films, documentaries and original concerts, comedy and sporting events on all platforms.  EPIX has made the commitment to deliver the industry’s most expansive online collection of movies, making more than 3,000 titles available to authenticated subscribers on EpixHD.com and on hundreds of devices including Xbox 360 consoles, Android™ tablets and mobile phones, Roku® players, Samsung® Smart TVs and Blu-ray™ players and more. EPIX is available to over 30 million homes nationwide through distribution partners including Charter Communications, Cox Communications, DISH Network, Mediacom Communications, NCTC, Suddenlink Communications and Verizon FiOS. 

For more information about EPIX, go to www.EpixHD.com. Follow EPIX and EPIX Sports on Twitter, @EpixHD and @EpixSports and on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/EpixHD.

For Additional Information (Media):

Nora Ryan, EPIX: (212) 846-8416 / NRyan@EpixHD.com

Fred Sternburg, Sternburg Comm: (303) 740-7746 / Toofred@aol.com

EPIX Presents Kevin Smith Burn In Hell

An EPIX Original Comedy Event, Premieres February 11

 On Demand Preview Spotlights ‘TV Everywhere’ to Drive Subscription and Authentication

Beginning February 3

 New York, NY January 18, 2012 –  Writer/Director/Raconteur/Podcaster/Sinner (to some) and proud Jersey boy Kevin Smith returns to EPIX, bringing his unusual multi-talents in a one-man show, Kevin Smith Burn in Hell.  The original comedy event premieres February 11 on the EPIX premium network.  Additionally, EPIX is reaching out to Kevin Smith fans everywhere with an on demand preview beginning February 3, offering subscribers and non-subscribers an early screening of the entire special.  The preview can be viewed via participating affiliated television providers’ EPIX On Demand service and EPIX apps on Xbox 360 and Roku.  It will also be available for streaming at EpixHD.com and the “TV Everywhere” portals of affiliated providers.

In the hour and a half special, recorded live at the Paramount Theater in Austin, Texas, Smith conducts a riotous and outrageous Q&A session about the aftermath of his latest film, Red State.  Topics include his mishaps and misadventures such as drawing the ire of the entire movie blogger community at the Sundance Film Festival and being followed around the country by the highly devout, and highly angered, Phelps Family.

Smith’s last special for EPIX, Too Fat for Forty  which premiered October 2010, tapped his online base of millions of highly engaged fans for an EPIX Live Q & A event on EpixHD.com.  “Kevin is tremendously popular with EPIX viewers – his first special continues to be a top performer on the channel, on demand and on EpixHD.com.  We’re glad that he’s been a part of EPIX since the beginning and excited to have him back,” said EPIX President and CEO Mark Greenberg. 

“The EPIX preview is designed to tap Kevin’s audience appeal to cast a spotlight on ‘TV Everywhere,’ increasing app and online authentications and subscriber acquisition for our affiliated providers,” Greenberg continued.

About EPIX

EPIX, a joint venture between Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA and VIA.B), its Paramount Pictures unit, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc. (MGM) and Lionsgate (NYSE: LGF), is a premium entertainment service available on television, video-on-demand, online and on consumer electronic devices. With access to more than 15,000 motion pictures spanning the vast libraries of its partners and other studios, EPIX provides a powerful entertainment experience with more feature films on demand and online and more HD movies than any other service.  It is the only premium service providing its entire monthly line-up of new Hollywood hits, classic feature films, documentaries and original concerts, comedy and sporting events on all platforms.  EPIX has made the commitment to deliver the industry’s most expansive online collection of movies, making more than 3,000 titles available to authenticated subscribers on EpixHD.com and on hundreds of devices including Xbox 360 consoles, Android™ tablets and mobile phones, Roku® players, Samsung® Smart TVs and Blu-ray™ players and more. EPIX is available to over 30 million homes nationwide through distribution partners including Charter Communications, Cox Communications, DISH Network, Mediacom Communications, NCTC, Suddenlink Communications and Verizon FiOS. 

For more information about EPIX, go to www.EpixHD.com. Follow EPIX on Twitter @EpixHD and on Facebookhttp://www.facebook.com/EpixHD.

Contact : FRANK PR
646.861.0843
Lina Plath | lina@frankpublicity.com
Clare Anne Darragh | clareanne@frankpublicity.com

EPIX Drive-In and EPIX 3 Debut on DISH Network

Channels Add More Movie Choices in

America’s Top 250 Package and for Blockbuster Movie Pass Subscribers

New York, NY, January 5, 2012 – EPIX announced today the introduction of a new movie channel and a rebranded channel for DISH Network viewers, expanding movie choices in DISH’s America’s Top 250 programming package as well as for premium subscribers to the Blockbuster Movie Pass.

Bringing the fun and excitement of drive-in movies to DISH subscribers, EPIX Drive-In launched January 1^st on channel 292 as part of DISH’s America’s Top 250 package, with select titles also available on demand and online to authenticated DISH subscribers on EpixHD.com and Dishonline.com.  Dedicated to celebrating the best in genre films featuring action, comedy, sci-fi and horror movies of the 1970’s, 80’s, 90’s and beyond, EPIX Drive-In , formerly named The 3 from EPIX, will present a lineup of wild, rebellious and edgy movies such as The Terminator, Child’s Play, Back To School, Rollerball, Teen Wolf and many others, all uncut and uninterrupted.

A special showcase of films from “King of the Cult Film” director/producer, Roger Corman, will air throughout the first quarter of 2012, including Battle Beyond the Stars, Bloodfist, Caged Heat, Carnosaur, Death Race 2000, Grand Theft Auto, Humanoids from the Deep, Rock n’ Roll High School and Slumber Party Massacre.  “Many of my films first entertained drive-in movie audiences, so it’s very appropriate for EPIX to be presenting some of my most iconic movies in this context,” said Corman.  “It’s a fun idea and a great way for new, younger audiences to connect with my work.  I am thrilled that my pictures will help jumpstart EPIX Drive-In and am excited about working with EPIX.”

“The films of Hollywood legend Roger Corman and others who followed his lead originally populated drive-ins and now enjoy enduring popularity as cult status hits with a large, passionate audience,” said EPIX president and CEO Mark Greenberg.  “We are pleased to launch EPIX Drive-In with DISH Network, which is a leader in tailoring program offerings to deliver great value for a wide range of audiences.”

Additionally, premium subscribers to DISH’s Blockbuster Movie Pass will have access to more movie choices as a new channel named EPIX 3 today becomes part of the EPIX television subscription (channel 382, next to EPIX and EPIX 2 at channels 380 and 381), adding more opportunities to see big Hollywood hits in HD, including Rango, True Grit, Thor and Super 8, original comedy and music specials, plus a unique selection of titles from the vast EPIX library.

“Our goal is to bring the best entertainment to our viewers and provide them content they want, when they want it, and we are pleased to continue working with EPIX to offer more movie choices to our subscribers on EPIX Drive-In and EPIX 3,” said Dave Shull, senior vice president of Programming for DISH.

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About EPIX

EPIX, a joint venture between Viacom Inc. (NYSE: VIA and VIA.B), its Paramount Pictures unit, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc. (MGM) and Lionsgate (NYSE: LGF), is a premium entertainment service available on television, video-on-demand, online and on consumer electronic devices. With access to more than 15,000 motion pictures spanning the vast libraries of its partners and other studios, EPIX provides a powerful entertainment experience with more feature films on demand and online and more HD movies than any other service.  It is the only premium service providing its entire monthly line-up of new Hollywood hits, classic feature films, documentaries and original concerts, comedy and sporting events on all platforms.  EPIX has made the commitment to deliver the industry’s most expansive online collection of movies, making more than 3,000 titles available to authenticated subscribers on EpixHD.com and on hundreds of devices including Android™ tablets and mobile phones, Roku® players, Samsung® Smart TVs and Blu-ray™ players, Xbox consoles and more. EPIX is available to over 30 million homes nationwide through distribution partners including Charter Communications, Cox Communications, DISH Network, Mediacom Communications, NCTC, Suddenlink Communications and Verizon FiOS. 

For more information about EPIX, go to www.EpixHD.com. Follow EPIX on Twitter @EpixHD and on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/EpixHD.

About DISH Network

DISH Network Corporation (NASDAQ: DISH), through its subsidiary DISH Network L.L.C., provides more than 13.945 million satellite TV customers, as of Sept. 30, 2011, with the highest quality programming and technology with the most choices at the best value, including HD Free for Life. Subscribers enjoy the largest high definition line-up with more than 200 national HD channels, the most international channels, and award-winning HD and DVR technology. DISH Network’s subsidiary, Blockbuster L.L.C., delivers family entertainment to millions of customers around the world. DISH Network Corporation is a Fortune 200 company. Visit www.dish.com.

Contacts:

For EPIX

Jamie Colunga

(212) 446-1877

jcolunga@sloanepr.com

DISH

press@dish.com

720-514-5351

EPIX Unleashed on Xbox 360

EPIX Partners with Xbox 360 to Deliver Voice-Controlled Experience to Authenticated EPIX Subscribers

NEW YORK, NY, December 5, 2011 – Reaching another milestone in its mission to be on every screen where audiences are looking for hit content, EPIX today announced the launch of its app as part of Microsoft’s December 6 introduction of the new Xbox LIVE service.  A leader in multiplatform availability, EPIX will provide authenticated subscribers streaming access on Xbox 360 to over 3,000 titles including a high definition lineup of new releases like Rango, Iron Man 2 and True Grit, big movie franchises Star Trek, Saw and James Bond, along with high profile original music, comedy and sports events.  The EPIX app utilizes the powerful capabilities of Xbox including voice search, gesture and voice commands. 

“The combination of EPIX premium entertainment and the innovations of the Xbox platform offer a powerful and unparalleled experience.  By working with the Microsoft Xbox team and our affiliated cable, satellite and telco partners, we’re taking another step forward in delivering great programming how, when and where viewers want to see it ,” said Mark Greenberg, EPIX President and CEO.

“Our partnership with EPIX marks a significant milestone in our vision to bring consumers all their favorite entertainment, shared with the people they care about, made easy,” said Pete Thompson, General Manager, Xbox LIVE. “By bringing EPIX to the Xbox LIVE service and adding the magic of Kinect, we are transforming the way consumers experience entertainment forever.”

The ability to stream full movies and concerts on the Xbox LIVE service is included as part of the premium subscription service available through cable, satellite and telco distributors, which includes EPIX and its multiplex channels, EPIX SVOD and EpixHD.com.  EPIX is working with affiliated partners including DISH Network, Mediacom Communications and Verizon FiOS to engage viewers as well as add new subscribers among the large universe of Xbox LIVE customers.

“As we become available on more popular and leading devices like Xbox, we will be able to build a relationship with a younger audience that will help drive business for our partners,” added Greenberg.

“We’re pleased to partner with EPIX in our efforts to increase the number of online movies available to our subscribers,” said Dave Shull, senior vice president of Programming for DISH. “DISH Network is committed to offering the most robust video content while giving our customers the most options for when and where they choose to watch it.”

In addition to Xbox, authenticated subscribers can access EPIX content on hundreds of other devices.

About EPIX

EPIX, a joint venture between Viacom Inc. (NYSE: VIA and VIA.B), its Paramount Pictures unit, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc. (MGM) and Lionsgate (NYSE: LGF), is a premium entertainment service available on television, video-on-demand, online and on consumer electronic devices. With access to more than 15,000 motion pictures spanning the vast libraries of its partners and other studios, EPIX provides a powerful entertainment experience with more feature films on demand and online and more HD movies than any other service.  It is the only premium service providing its entire monthly line-up of new Hollywood hits, classic feature films, documentaries and original concerts, comedy and sporting events on all platforms.  EPIX has made the commitment to deliver the industry’s most expansive online collection of movies, making more than 3,000 titles available to authenticated subscribers on EpixHD.com and on hundreds of devices including iPads and iPhones, Android™ tablets and mobile phones, Roku® players, Samsung® Smart TVs and Blu-ray™ players, Xbox consoles and more. EPIX is available to over 30 million homes nationwide through distribution partners including Charter Communications, Cox Communications, DISH Network, Mediacom Communications, NCTC, Suddenlink Communications and Verizon FiOS. 

For more information about EPIX, go to www.EpixHD.com. Follow EPIX on Twitter @EpixHD and on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/EpixHD.

Contact

Sloane & Company

Jamie Colunga

jcolunga@sloanepr.com

212-446-1877 

WBA World Heavyweight Championship

ALEXANDER POVETKIN vs. CEDRIC BOSWELL 
LIVE TO THE U.S. EXCLUSIVELY ON 
EPIX AND EPIXHD.COM
Saturday, December 3 at 4:30 p.m. ET / 1:30 p.m. PT

 

NEW YORK (November 21, 2011) – Live world championship boxing returns to EPIX (follow @EPIXsports on Twitter for the latest updates on EPIX boxing) when newly-minted undefeated World Boxing Association (WBA) heavyweight championALEXANDER POVETKIN makes his first world title defense, against CEDRIC “The Boz” BOSWELL, Saturday, December 3. Presented by Sauerland Event, the live broadcast will emanate from Hartwall Areena in Helsinki, Finland.
 
The WBA heavyweight championship will be televised live in the U.S. exclusively on EPIX, the multiplatform premium entertainment service.  EpixHD.com will stream the fight live as part of a free two-week trial offer.  The live broadcast and the live stream on EPIX and EpixHD.com, respectively, will begin with the main event at 4:30 p.m. ET / 1:30 p.m. PT.

Following the Povetkin-Boswell heavyweight title fight, the broadcast and live stream will continue with undefeated World Boxing Organization (WBO) and WBA Intercontinental heavyweight champion ROBERT “The Nordic Nightmare” HELENIUS taking onDERECK CHISORA for the vacant European heavyweight title.  
 
As has become the custom, EPIX will once again present the closed-captioned simulcast of both fights on a jumbotron in Times Square (Broadway between 44th and 45th Sts.), beginning at 4:30 p.m. ET.
 
Povetkin, Boswell, Helenius and Chisora boast a combined record of 88-2 (61 KOs) – a 98% winning percentage and a victory by knockout ratio of 69%.
 
“EPIX looks forward to providing U.S.-based boxing fans exclusive live coverage of the Povetkin- Boswell and Helenius-Chisora heavyweight title fights and presenting the continuing plotlines of Povetkin and Helenius as a preview of the heavyweight division’s next generation of world champions and world title challengers,” said Travis Pomposello, EPIX senior executive in charge of boxing. 
 
“Winning the world title was like a dream coming true for me,” said Povetkin. “Now I need to prove myself against quality contenders out there. I look forward to fighting Boswell. He is a tough opponent. But I have worked so hard to become champion there is no way I will allow him to take the belt away from me. I can promise my fans an exciting fight in Helsinki on December 3.”
 
 “My entire life I have been waiting this moment,” Boswell stated. “Now the big day has finally come. Povetkin is a good kid but he is a kid and he will be in trouble once we are in the ring. I have the experience and the strength to beat him. I will shock the boxing world on December 3 when I take home the WBA Heavyweight Title to America.”
 
Povetkin (22-0, 15 KOs), of Russia, is trained by Teddy Atlas.  He captured the vacant WBA heavyweight title on August 27, winning a gutsy unanimous decision over former WBA heavyweight champion Ruslan Chagaev, who entered the fight as the No. 1-rated contender. Povetkin, the 2004 Olympic super heavyweight gold medalist, has an impressive resume which includes a knockout victory over former two-time heavyweight champion Chris Byrd, and unanimous decision victories over one-time heavyweight title challenger Eddie Chambers and former U.S. Olympians Jason Estrada and Larry Donald.  Povetkin, who has been promoted by Sauerland Event throughout his entire professional career, enters this fight having won three of his last five bouts by knockout.  
 
Boswell (35-1, 26 KOs), of Atlanta, enters this fight riding a five-year, 14-bout winning streak, with 12 of those victories coming by way of knockout. Highlights of that streak include a second-round knockout of then-undefeated heavyweight contender Roman Greenberg (27-0) for the vacant USBA and IBF North American heavyweight titles, a ninth-round stoppage of top contender Owen Beck for the vacant WBC Latino heavyweight title and WBC Latino title defense unanimous decision victories over former world heavyweight champion Oliver McCall and Kertson Mantswell, which also included the NABA heavyweight title.
 
“The support of my Finnish fans has always been fantastic,” Helenius stated. “They raised the roof last November when I defeated Attila Levin before the Super Six clash between Abraham and Froch. This time, they will be even louder and lift me to victory. I will be the new European champion on December 3!”

“He’s called the ‘Nordic Nightmare,’ but he’ll be having nightmares about me for the rest of his life after I’ve left him flat out on the canvas,” Chisora stated. “I’m surprised Helenius’ people wanted me to fight their unbeaten golden boy, they must be going on my performance in my last fight and think I’m easy pickings. Believe me, this is the biggest mistake they have made with his career and I’ll be going over to Finland to knock him clean out. I can’t wait for December 3 and winning that European title and bringing it back to Britain.
 
Helenius (16-0, 11 KOs), a native of Finland who fights out of Berlin, Germany, returns to the ring after knocking out former WBO heavyweight champion Siarhei Liakhovich in August. Liakhovich was the third former heavyweight champion to suffer a knockout loss to Helenius, joining knockout victims Lamon Brewster and Samuel Peter, who were starched in eight and nine rounds, respectively.  Helenius, who enters this fight having won 10 of his last 11 fights by stoppage, is world-rated No. 1 by the WBO and No. 3 by the WBA and International Boxing Federation (IBF).
 
Chisora (15-3, 9 KOs), of London, will be fighting outside the United Kingdom for the first time in his four-year professional career.  The former BBBoC British heavyweight Champion and Commonwealth (British Empire) heavyweight champion boasts consecutive knockout victories of Danny Williams and Sam Sexton, who had a combined record of 54-9 when he defeated them.  
 
Calling the fights for EPIX and EpixHD.com will be eight-time New York Emmy® Award winner and WNBC-TV’s lead sports anchorBruce Beck, handling the blow-by-blow duties.  Joining Beck on the broadcast team as analysts will be five-time Trainer of the Year and International Boxing Hall of Fame nominee FREDDIE ROACH and ESPN.com senior boxing writer Dan Rafael.  Sports Illustrated’s boxing writer Chris Mannix will be stationed ringside at Hartwall Areena where he will provide live post-fight in-ring interviews with the fighters.            
  
About EPIX

EPIX, a joint venture between Viacom Inc. (NYSE: VIA and VIA.B), its Paramount Pictures unit, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc. (MGM) and Lionsgate (NYSE: LGF), is a next-generation premium entertainment channel, video-on-demand and online service launched on October 30, 2009. With access to more than 15,000 motion pictures spanning the vast libraries of its partners and other studios, EPIX provides a powerful entertainment experience with more feature films on demand and online and more HD movies than any other service. It is the only premium service providing its entire monthly line-up of new Hollywood titles, classic feature films, original series, music and comedy specials through the linear channel, video-on-demand and online at EpixHD.com, the leading online destination for movies.
 
EPIX has made the commitment to deliver the industry’s most expansive online collection of movies, making more than 3,000 titles available on EpixHD.com. The service is available to over 30 million homes nationwide through distribution partners including Charter Communications, Cox Communications, DISH Network, Mediacom Communications, NCTC, Suddenlink Communications and Verizon FiOS.  
 
For more information about EPIX, go to www.EpixHD.com <http://www.epixhd.com/> .

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For Additional Information (Media):
Nora Ryan, Epix:    (212) 846-8416 / NRyan@EpixHD.com <mailto:NRyan@EpixHD.com> 
Fred Sternburg, Sternburg Comm: (303) 740-7746 / Toofred@aol.com <mailto:Toofred@aol.com> 
 

EPIX Expands Nonfiction Programming With New Weekly Offering

Documentary Films Every Wednesday at 8:00 pm ET on EPIX Docs

Story Updates and EPIX Live Q & A with Filmmakers Follow Films to Add Depth

New York, NY, September 8, 2011 – EPIX, the cross platform premium entertainment service owned by Paramount Pictures, Lionsgate and MGM, is expanding its nonfiction programming slate with a new weekly showcase of documentary films.  Introduced this week and running through February 2012, EPIX Docs will air Wednesdays at 8:00 pm ET, featuring recent theatrical releases, films currently on the festival circuit, and cult favorites on a wide range of subjects from social issues to pop culture.  EPIX will also give viewers the opportunity to go deeper into the stories with originally produced feature segments and EPIX Live Q & A sessions with the filmmakers.

The weekly strand debuted September 7 with the premiere of Waiting for Superman, the critically acclaimed expose of public education in America from Oscar-winning director Davis Guggenheim, followed by a short film update about the stories of the children featured in the original documentary.  EPIX commissioned Participant Media to produce the documentary short and is partnering with Take Part to promote the film. 

Other documentaries to premiere throughout September and October in the weekly series include:

Cool It – examining the debate over global warming;

Unlikely Weapon – about Pulitzer Prize winning photographer Eddie Adams and the photo that some say ended the Viet Nam war;

The Harvest – profiles of migrant child workers in the U.S.;

Chosin – survivors of the 1950 North Korean battle tell their story;

Best Worst Movie – exploring the phenomenon behind a low budget cult horror film and its passionate following of young movie fanatics, followed by a profile of the Alabama dentist who starred in the film and online screening of Troll 2 allowing fans to interact with the actors;

Winnebago Man – sales video outtakes that created the first viral Internet sensation;

Machete Maidens Unleashed – a look at American filmmakers producing movies in the Marcos era Philippines during the 1970s.

“Documentaries have the power to drive passions and fascinate,” said EPIX President and CEO Mark Greenberg.  “Whether highlighting important social issues or presenting truth that can be stranger than fiction, we are proud to provide a platform for quality work and to give viewers special opportunities to engage in the conversation around these compelling stories.”

EPIX Docs will include a mix of recent releases and classic documentaries from EPIX partners (The Cove, More Than a Game, Bowling for Columbine) plus new acquisitions, co-productions and commissioned projects.  The documentaries will also be available to subscribers via EPIX-on-demand, EpixHD.com and EPIX apps on mobile devices.

About EPIX

EPIX, a joint venture between Viacom Inc. (NYSE: VIA and VIA.B), its Paramount Pictures unit, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc. (MGM) and Lionsgate (NYSE: LGF), is a next-generation premium entertainment channel, video-on-demand and online service launched on October 30, 2009. With access to more than 15,000 motion pictures spanning the vast libraries of its partners and other studios, EPIX provides a powerful entertainment experience with more feature films on demand and online and more HD movies than any other service.  It is the only premium service providing its entire monthly line-up of new Hollywood titles, classic feature films, original series, music and comedy specials through the linear channel, video-on-demand and online at EpixHD.com, the leading online destination for movies. EPIX has made the commitment to deliver the industry’s most expansive online collection of movies, making more than 3,000 titles available on EpixHD.com.  The service is available to over 30 million homes nationwide through distribution partners including Charter Communications, Cox Communications, DISH Network, Mediacom Communications, NCTC, Suddenlink Communications and Verizon FiOS. 

For more information about EPIX, go to www.EpixHD.com. Follow EPIX on Twitter @EpixHD and on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/EpixHD.

Contact : FRANK PR
646.861.0843
Lina Plath | lina@frankpublicity.com
Clare Anne Darragh | clareanne@frankpublicity.com

EPIX Presents Kevin Smith LIVE In Austin

Kevin Smith Burn in Hell to be Taped Live for Air on EPIX, EpixHD.com

New York, NY, September 27, 2011 – EPIX will be taping Kevin Smith as he takes the stage at Austin’s Paramount Theater tonight for his latest one man show, announced today by the cross platform entertainment service available on television, on demand, online and on Internet connected devices.

Kevin Smith Burn in Hell will cover a wide range of autobiographical topics in the unique raconteur style of the writer/director (Clerks, Chasing Amy, Zack and Miri Make a Porno, Red State) who is well known for his long humorous Q & A sessions that combine comic storytelling with fan questions.  Smith’s last special for EPIX, Too Fat for Forty, premiered in October 2010 when over 10,000 fans also participated in an EPIX Live Q & A event on EpixHD.com.  The original concert continues to be a hit with EPIX subscribers who are still viewing it in large numbers on EPIX-On-Demand and EpixHD.com.

“EPIX subscribers love Kevin Smith and we are happy to be working with Kevin again to connect him with his large and passionate fan base on television and online,” said EPIX CEO Mark Greenberg.

Tonight’s show will be filmed before a live audience beginning at 7:30 and the special will premiere nationally on EPIX and EpixHD.com in early 2012.  Smith joins a growing roster of A-list comedy events on EPIX which include Craig Ferguson: Does This Need to be Said; Louis CK: Hilarious, nominated for two 2011 Emmy awards; Believe: The Eddie Izzard Story, nominated for a 2010 Emmy; and Lewis Black’s Stark Raving Black, which received a Grammy nod.

About EPIX

EPIX, a joint venture between Viacom Inc. (NYSE: VIA and VIA.B), its Paramount Pictures unit, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc. (MGM) and Lionsgate (NYSE: LGF), is a next-generation premium entertainment channel, video-on-demand and online service launched on October 30, 2009. With access to more than 15,000 motion pictures spanning the vast libraries of its partners and other studios, EPIX provides a powerful entertainment experience with more feature films on demand and online and more HD movies than any other service.  It is the only premium service providing its entire monthly line-up of new Hollywood titles, classic feature films, original series, music and comedy specials through the linear channel, video-on-demand and online at EpixHD.com, the leading online destination for movies. EPIX has made the commitment to deliver the industry’s most expansive online collection of movies, making more than 3,000 titles available on EpixHD.com.  The service is available to over 30 million homes nationwide through distribution partners including Charter Communications, Cox Communications, DISH Network, Mediacom Communications, NCTC, Suddenlink Communications and Verizon FiOS. 

For more information about EPIX, go to www.EpixHD.com. Follow EPIX on Twitter @EpixHD and on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/EpixHD.

Contact : FRANK PR
646.861.0843
Lina Plath | lina@frankpublicity.com
Clare Anne Darragh | clareanne@frankpublicity.com

WBA Heavyweight Championship: Alexander Povetkin vs. Ruslan Chagaev Live To The U.S. Exclusively On EPIX And EpixHD.com

Saturday, August 27 at 5 p.m. ET / 2 p.m. PT

NEW YORK (August 17, 2011) – Live world championship boxing returns to EPIX when undefeated 2004 Olympic super heavyweight gold medalist ALEXANDER POVETKIN and former World Boxing Association (WBA) heavyweight champion RUSLAN CHAGAEV square-off for the vacant WBA heavyweight title, Saturday, August 27^th.  Presented by Sauerland Event, the live broadcast will emanate from Erfurt, Germany.

The battle between the two highest world-rated heavyweight contenders will be televised live in the U.S. exclusively on EPIX, the multiplatform premium entertainment service.  EpixHD.com will stream the fight live as part of a free two-week trial offer.  The live broadcast and the live stream on EPIX and EpixHD.com, respectively, will begin with the main event at 5 p.m. ET / 2 p.m. PT.

Following the Povetkin-Chagaev WBA heavyweight championship, the broadcast and live stream will continue with undefeated World Boxing Organization (WBO) and WBA Intercontinental heavyweight champion ROBERT HELENIUS defending his regional titles against former WBO heavyweight champion SIARHEI LIAKHOVICH.   

As has become the custom, EPIX will once again present the closed-captioned simulcast of both fights on a jumbotron in Times Square (Broadway between 44^th and 45^th Sts.), beginning at 5 p.m. ET.

Photos of the fighters can be accessed via this link: 
https://rcpt.yousendit.com/1194052339/07e672acf0668f9afaa805a48e425283

Povetkin, Chagaev, Helenius and Liakhovich boast a combined record of 88-4-1 (58 KOs) – a 95% winning percentage and a victory by knockout ratio of 66%.

“EPIX looks forward to providing U.S.-based boxing fans exclusive live coverage of the Povetkin- Chagaev heavyweight title fight and presenting a preview of the heavyweight division’s next generation of world champions and title challengers,” said Travis Pomposello, EPIX senior executive in charge of boxing.

“I have won the Olympic gold medal and I have been World and European Amateur Champion.  Now I want to finally accomplish my goal of winning the world title as a professional,” added Povetkin.  “I have a lot of respect for Chagaev, but he will not get in my way.”

“Povetkin is a strong fighter, but I want to become world champion again and win back my old title.  I am highly motivated,” said Chagaev.

Povetkin (21-0, 15 KOs), of Russia, is currently the WBA’s No. 2 world-rated heavyweight contender.  His resume includes a knockout victory over former two-time heavyweight champion Chris Byrd, and unanimous decision victories over one-time heavyweight title challenger Eddie Chambers and former U.S. Olympians Jason Estrada and Larry Donald.  Povetkin enters this fight having won three of his last four bouts by knockout.  Povetkin has been promoted by Sauerland Event throughout his entire professional career.

Chagaev (27-1-1, 17 KOs), a native of Ukraine who fights out of Berlin, Germany, captured the WBA heavyweight title when he dethroned 7-foot defending champion Nikolai Valuev via a majority decision in April 2007.  During his two-year reign, Chagaev successfully defended his title twice, winning decisions over Matt Skelton (21-1) and Carl Drumond (26-0).  Since losing to Wladimir Klitschko in 2009, Chagaev has defeated Kali Meehan and Travis Walker en route to becoming the WBA’s No. 1 heavyweight contender.

Helenius (15-0, 10 KOs), a native of Finland who fights out of Berlin, Germany, will be looking to make Liakhovich his third former heavyweight champion knockout victim having already starched Lamon Brewster and Samuel Peter in eight and nine rounds, respectively.  He enters this fight having won nine of his last 10 fights by stoppage and world-rated No. 2 by the WBO and No. 3 by the International Boxing Federation (IBF).

Liakhovich (25-3, 16 KOs), a native of Belarus, fights out of Phoenix, Ariz. He won the WBO heavyweight championship in 2006, dethroning defending champion Lamon Brewster via a unanimous decision.  He lost the title, in his first defense, to Shannon Briggs. Liakhovich enters this fight having won his last two fights by knockout against Jeremy Bates and Evans Quinn, in the first and the ninth round, respectively.

Mike Crispino, the voice of the New York Liberty, former undisputed World Heavyweight Champion Lennox Lewis and ESPN.com senior boxing writer Dan Rafael will be calling the fights for EPIX and EpixHD.com.  Viewers watching the live stream on EpixHD.com will enjoy round-by-round blogs from Sports Illustrated’s boxing writer Chris Mannix.        

About EPIX

EPIX, a joint venture between Viacom Inc. (NYSE: VIA and VIA.B), its Paramount Pictures unit, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc. (MGM) and Lionsgate (NYSE: LGF), is a next-generation premium entertainment channel, video-on-demand and online service launched on October 30, 2009. With access to more than 15,000 motion pictures spanning the vast libraries of its partners and other studios, EPIX provides a powerful entertainment experience with more feature films on demand and online and more HD movies than any other service. It is the only premium service providing its entire monthly line-up of new Hollywood titles, classic feature films, original series, music and comedy specials through the linear channel, video-on-demand and online at EpixHD.com, the leading online destination for movies.

EPIX has made the commitment to deliver the industry’s most expansive online collection of movies, making more than 3,000 titles available on EpixHD.com. The service is available to over 30 million homes nationwide through distribution partners including Charter Communications, Cox Communications, DISH Network, Mediacom Communications, NCTC, Suddenlink Communications and Verizon FiOS.

For more information about EPIX, go to www.EpixHD.com.

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For Additional Information (Media):

Nora Ryan, Epix:                  (212) 846-8416 / NRyan@EpixHD.com

Fred Sternburg, Sternburg Comm: (303) 740-7746 / Toofred@aol.com

EPIX Gives Fans Something To Tweet About

Britney Spears: Femme Fatale Premieres in November on Epix and EpixHD.com

New York, NY, August 17, 2011 – Britney Spears’ sold-out Femme Fatale tour is coming in November to EPIX, the cross platform premium entertainment service available on television, on demand, online and on Internet-connected devices.

Word travelled quickly among Britney’s 30+ million online followers when she tweeted the news on Friday that she would be taping her sold-out show in Toronto this weekend.  Within minutes of her announcement, traffic to EPIX social sites doubled and Britney Spears became a worldwide trending topic on Twitter, driven by the frequency of posts and discussion among her eager fans.  Ranked by Forbes Magazine at #6 on its 2010 list of the 100 most powerful and influential celebrities in the world, Spears continues to be one of the most mentioned musicians on the Internet.

“I am so excited that all my fans will be able to see my Femme Fatale tour on EPIX.  I am really proud of this show and I want all of my fans to see it,” said the pop icon.

“EPIX is dedicated to bringing fans closer to the talent they love and we are pleased to connect this truly iconic American star to her large and passionate fan base,” said EPIX President and CEO Mark Greenberg.

As viewers increasingly become active participants in their own entertainment, EPIX is pursuing a cross platform strategy to tap and engage large fan bases online, offering unique access and engagement with their favorite artists.  Recent examples include July’s Shatnerpalooza campaign which reached ten million Star Trek fans with the world premiere of William Shatner’s original film, The Captains. Other fan favorites presented this year include Bon Jovi, Eddie Izzard, Craig Ferguson and Kevin Smith, whose EPIX Live online chat drew over ten thousand fans who then viewed his exclusive special Too Fat for Forty on EpixHD.com.

Shot this past weekend in 2D and 3D by 3ality Digital at the Air Canada Centre in Toronto, the highly anticipated Britney Spears: Femme Fatale will premiere in November on the EPIX network as well as on EPIX on Demand and EpixHD.com.

About EPIX

EPIX, a joint venture between Viacom Inc. (NYSE: VIA and VIA.B), its Paramount Pictures unit, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc. (MGM) and Lionsgate (NYSE: LGF), is a next-generation premium entertainment channel, video-on-demand and online service launched on October 30, 2009. With access to more than 15,000 motion pictures spanning the vast libraries of its partners and other studios, EPIX provides a powerful entertainment experience with more feature films on demand and online and more HD movies than any other service.  It is the only premium service providing its entire monthly line-up of new Hollywood titles, classic feature films, original series, music and comedy specials through the linear channel, video-on-demand and online at EpixHD.com, the leading online destination for movies. EPIX has made the commitment to deliver the industry’s most expansive online collection of movies, making more than 3,000 titles available on EpixHD.com.  The service is available to over 30 million homes nationwide through distribution partners including Charter Communications, Cox Communications, DISH Network, Mediacom Communications, NCTC, Suddenlink Communications and Verizon FiOS. 

For more information about EPIX, go to www.EpixHD.com. Follow EPIX on Twitter @EpixHD and on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/EpixHD.

About 3ality Digital

3ality Digital enables the world to power live-action stereoscopic 3D (S3D) through the most advanced evolutionary technology available. 3ality Digital systems are currently deployed for the productions of Peter Jackson’s THE HOBBIT: An Unexpected Journey, and Bryan Singer’s JACK THE GIANT KILLER. The advanced technology was also employed for Sony Pictures’ THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN, directed by Marc Webb and is being utilized on THE GREAT GATSBY, directed by Baz Luhrmann. 3ality Digital’s camera platforms are earning a reputation as the “S3D Gold Standard©” for the emerging medium of stereoscopic visualization. 3ality Digital engineered some of the world’s first S3D cinematic and broadcast achievements, including U2 3D (the movie), and the first live S3D broadcasts from the NFL, BCS Championship, BSkyB, the Super Bowl, and NBC television. In broadcast, 3ality Digital is the technology and production systems behind the BSkyB launch of their 3D channel and has been used on a wide range of events including the Isle of Wight Festival, the Ryder Cup, and Champions League Football. For more information, please visit www.3alitydigital.com.

Contact : FRANK PR
646.861.0843
Lina Plath | lina@frankpublicity.com
Clare Anne Darragh | clareanne@frankpublicity.com

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Seth MacFarlane Is Better Than Words On EPIX

Swingin’ in Concert Premieres September 24^th on EPIX, EpixHD.com

New York, NY, August 15, 2011 – EPIX, the premium entertainment channel, video-on-demand and online service will take subscribers back in time with the Seth MacFarlane (concert) musical experience this fall. Premiering September 24^th on EPIX and EpixHD.com, the sold-out live performance of his upcoming album Music is Better than Words was shot with special guest Sara Bareilles at the ultra-hip Club Nokia in Los Angeles.

The Emmy Award-winning, multitalented MacFarlane, known for creating “Family Guy,” pulls out all the stops to duplicate the atmosphere in which Ol’ Blue Eyes, Frank Sinatra, flourished. His new album is a crisp sounding orchestral/big band record that features MacFarlane singing some of the hidden musical gems of the ‘40s and ‘5os.  Introducing this rich sound and classic integrity to a new audience, the album features duets with beloved artists Norah Jones and Sara Bareilles, and was arranged, conducted, and produced by accomplished film and television composer Joel McNeely, who conducted the orchestra at the event. In the live performance, MacFarlane utilizes multi-track audio for HDTV and transports himself and viewers to the era with the help of Grammy nominated singer, Sara Bareilles.

MacFarlane has been a fan of music from this era for as long as he can remember, and has even trained with vocal coaches Lee, Sally, and Steve Sweetland. Lee and Sally coached many great singers throughout their careers, including Frank Sinatra.  MacFarlane has featured countless musical numbers on his television shows, and has garnered multiple Emmy nominations as well as a win for Outstanding Music and Lyrics on “Family Guy.”

In a performance the Los Angeles Times calls “suave, punching, a pleasure to hear,” MacFarlane and his 39-piece all-star orchestra give new life to a selection of hand-picked pieces from the Great American Songbook from the 1940s through 60s. Revisiting the music of Rodgers and Hammerstein, MacFarlane also treats audiences to some overlooked songs. 

Recorded at the legendary Capitol Records, the album was made with MacFarlane singing live in the same room as the orchestra, just as they did in 50’s.  Additionally, Frank Sinatra’s original microphone, nicknamed “The Frank,” was used to record the album. All songs were recorded to analog tape, to match the warm sound of the historic records of that era.

While some fans may not know this side of MacFarlane, the producer, writer, director and voiceover actor is no stranger to the singing stage. MacFarlane’s voice has been celebrated for its perfect phrasing, richness, and consistency.  He is an experienced live performer, having played to sold out audiences at London’s Royal Albert Hall and New York’s Carnegie Hall.

“Seth MacFarlane’s talent is far reaching,” said EPIX President and CEO Mark Greenberg. “The Family Guy Facebook page has over 35 million fans on Facebook and he has almost a million Twitter followers. He knows how to connect with people through writing, acting, comedy and now singing.”

EPIX has developed a respected platform for award-winning performers with past musical events including, Usher: OMG, Madonna: Sticky & Sweet, Kings of Leon: Live at the O2, Bon Jovi: The Circle Tour: Live from New Jersey and The Black Eyed Peas: The E.N.D. World Tour 2010.

About EPIX

EPIX, a joint venture between Viacom Inc. (NYSE: VIA and VIA.B), its Paramount Pictures unit, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc. (MGM) and Lionsgate (NYSE: LGF), is a next-generation premium entertainment channel, video-on-demand and online service launched on October 30, 2009. With access to more than 15,000 motion pictures spanning the vast libraries of its partners and other studios, EPIX provides a powerful entertainment experience with more feature films on demand and online and more HD movies than any other service.  It is the only premium service providing its entire monthly line-up of new Hollywood titles, classic feature films, original series, music and comedy specials through the linear channel, video-on-demand and online at EpixHD.com, the leading online destination for movies. EPIX has made the commitment to deliver the industry’s most expansive online collection of movies, making more than 3,000 titles available on EpixHD.com.  The service is available to over 30 million homes nationwide through distribution partners including Charter Communications, Cox Communications, DISH Network, Mediacom Communications, NCTC, Suddenlink Communications and Verizon FiOS. 

For more information about EPIX, go to www.EpixHD.com.

About Seth MacFarlane:

Seth MacFarlane is the creative force behind “Family Guy,” “American Dad!,” “The Cleveland Show” and the upcoming “The Flintstones” and “Cosmos: A Space-Time Odyssey.”  “Family Guy” has garnered four Emmys and seven Emmy nominations, including one in the Outstanding Comedy Series category.  MacFarlane is in post-production on his directorial feature film debut, TED, which stars Mark Wahlberg, Mila Kunis and MacFarlane as the voice of Ted.  His debut orchestral/big band album, Music is Better than Words, will be released on September 27^th, 2011.

Contact : FRANK PR
646.861.0843
Lina Plath | lina@frankpublicity.com
Clare Anne Darragh | clareanne@frankpublicity.com 

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