AMC Networks acquires a 49.9% stake in BBC America for US$200M

AMC Networks Inc. and BBC Worldwide, announced a new long-term creative partnership bringing together two global brands that are behind some of the most-watched, most celebrated programming on television. Under the terms of the partnership agreement, AMC Networks is investing US$200M to acquire a 49.9% equity stake in the cable channel BBC America, home of hit drama series Doctor Who and Orphan Black and available in almost 80 million homes in the U.S. The agreement is structured as a long-term equity joint venture, with BBC Worldwide retaining 50.1%. AMC Networks will have operational control of BBC America, including affiliate and advertising sales, will run it consistent with BBC’s editorial standards and policies, and will consolidate the results of the joint venture in its financial statements.