The Discovery TV network has agreed to air 3D programs outside of the US for the first time in a deal with BSkyB and Virgin Media.
Discovery, the network that produces shows such as Mythbusters and Deadliest Catch, have agreed to produce and air a series of documentaries that will cover natural history, engineering, crime and extreme sports.
It is not clear as yet exactly how many hours of 3D programming Discovery will provide but it will include several extreme sports programs, such as High Octane, from Discovery’s joint venture with Sony and IMAX called 3NET.
In a deal with Sky and Virgin Media, Discovery will also be airing a series of wildlife programs including 3D safari, which has been filmed at Woburn Safari park, and a wildlife show called Beautiful Freaks which will be filmed in Namibia.
This is one of the first major deals struck by the new managed of Discovery UK and Ireland, Susanna Dinnage. While only having been onboard since September, she is optimistic that this will be a step forward for 3D TV:
“These are substantial and ambitious deals that will enrich the 3D experience of anyone who has Sky and Virgin Media’s 3D services,” she said.
Interesting, but, again, Canada seems to be left behind.
Disappointing in that regard.