AMC Networks has acquired full control of BBC America, its joint venture with BBC Studios.
The US media company has owned a 49.9% stake in the channel since 2014, which it purchased for $200m in a deal with BBC Worldwide.
AMC Networks has assumed control of the remaining 50.1% of BBC America in exchange for $42m in cash.
According to AMC Networks’ third-quarter earnings results it “now owns 100% of the BBC America business, with full operational control, and will continue to fully consolidate BBC America.”
“We now own 100% of this iconic channel, with full operational control, and look forward to what the future holds,” CFO Patrick O’Connell said during AMC Networks’ third-quarter earnings. “Of course, we still maintain a close commercial relationship with BBC Studios to ensure the brand and programming remain top tier. We will continue to fully consolidate BBC America, as we did prior to the transaction.”
The channel co-produced UK series such as Killing Eve and Planet Earth and the revival of Doctor Who. It also co-produced the critically acclaimed Canadian series Orphan Black. Currently, the channel is known for airing The Graham Norton Show, high-end nature documentaries and reruns of shows such as Bones and Antiques Roadshow.
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