Oprah and Discovery to Launch OWN

Oprah Winfrey is getting her own television network in a partnership with Discovery Communications. Oprah Winfrey and Discovery Communications have announced plans to create the OWN: The Oprah Winfrey Network. OWN will debut in 2009 in more than 70 million homes, on what is currently the Discovery Health Channel. The press statement says Oprah Winfrey will have full editorial control by the joint venture and will be responsible for OWN’s programming, branding and creative vision. Winfrey will serve as Chairman of The Oprah Winfrey Network, LLC and

the venture will be 50/50 owned by Discovery and Harpo.

Discovery Communications will contribute to the venture the Discovery Health Channel as well as handle distribution, origination and other operational requirements for the proposed venture. Both organizations will contribute advertising sales services to the venture.

The companies said the search for OWN’s Chief Executive Officer to oversee day-to-day venture operations will start immediately.

Photo: Discovery Communications President and CEO David Zaslav and Oprah Winfrey

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