Fremantle launches online comedy portal

FremantleMedia Enterprises (FME) has launched a consumer website which is to become the home for its portfolio of comedy programming.

TVComedyClassics.com will host comedy selections from FME’s archives including content showing the likes of Tommy Cooper, Frankie Howerd, Eric Sykes, Sid James, Penelope Keith and Jim Davidson.

Titles available from launch either to download to own or rent include Tommy Cooper Half Hour, The Howerd Confessions, George and Mildred, Love Thy Neighbour and Bless This House, with new content being added regularly. The site uses Vizumi, the movie downloading service of Arts Alliance Media.

Pete Kalhan, senior vice president, home entertainment & archive sales, said: "TVComedyClassics.com is a brand new distribution channel for FME and a great way for us to interact directly with our consumers by delivering to them the content they want, when and where they want it. We very much see TVComedyClassics.com as just the first in many programme genre portal websites we will be developing and we’re certain it will be a big hit with comedy fans."

FME will also offer consumers additional programming such as specially filmed episodes, interviews with talent and other bonus content. The TVComedyClassics brand will be featured across relevant upcoming DVD releases and be cross-promoted in each DVD and accompanying PR and advertising campaigns.

FME is currently exploring content opportunities with other independent production companies and is looking to extend the TVComedyClassics brand locally around the world.