Updated: HBO to launch UK video on demand service

HBO will launch a video on demand service in the UK on Virgin Media, it has been confirmed.

Around 50 hours of HBO programming including Curb Your Enthusiasm and Band of Brothers will be available on the service.

HBO On Demand will be available as part of the standard monthly charge for customers taking the top "XL" TV package. Customers on lower TV packages will have access to the service on a subscription basis.

"HBO's programming has always done very well in the UK and the arrival of an HBO service has been long desired and anticipated," said Simon Sutton, president of programming distribution and international at HBO. "We are very excited to offer HBO programming in a subscription video on demand format, where we can deliver our acclaimed series and specials to UK audiences on their schedule. This opportunity enables us to raise our profile in the region, while providing viewers with a distinct HBO environment."

Virgin Media does not yet have a confirmed launch date for the service but a spokesperson told DS today that it would be "coming soon".

"We are making a serious investment in the range of on-demand programmes we offer and HBO has a reputation for producing some of the most original and entertaining shows of recent years," said Ernie Cormier, chief commercial officer at Virgin Media. "By shortly adding more than 600 hours of fantastic viewing to our library, we're putting our customers firmly in control of what they want to watch, when they want to watch it."

Virgin Media has already announced content deals with Disney, Channel 4 and Alliance Atlantis.