MUMBAI: Sony Corporation, Discovery Communications and IMAX Corporation have named Discovery Channel executive Tom Cosgrove as president and general manager of the joint venture they have established to develop the first 24/7 dedicated 3D television network.
The network will feature premium content from genres that are most appealing in 3D, including natural history, space, exploration, adventure, engineering, science and technology and motion pictures from Discovery, Sony Pictures Entertainment, IMAX and other third-party providers.
In his new position, Cosgrove will oversee all business and creative areas of the joint venture, with a goal of driving consumer adoption of 3D televisions and giving the network long-term leadership in the 3D home marketplace. He will report to the joint venture’s board of directors, comprised of representatives from Sony, Discovery and IMAX. The companies completed the formation of the joint venture last week.
"We welcome Tom Cosgrove to what is really an historic position heading up a groundbreaking 3D television network. We’re at a turning point in entertainment history, not unlike the transition from silent movies to ‘talkies’ or black-and-white to color. This is the start of something really big, and we’re excited about delivering high-quality 3D entertainment to people every day, all day," said Sony Pictures Entertainment chairman and CEO Michael Lynton.
"Tom’s experience and success as the operational leader of Discovery’s flagship network makes him an exceptional choice to lead our 3D joint venture with Sony and IMAX. His broad expertise across every aspect of running a successful network, from content development to marketing to scheduling, will ensure that the Discovery, Sony and IMAX 3D network plays a leading role in bringing the next-generation television experience to viewers," said Discovery Communications president and CEO David Zaslav.
"We believe Tom’s background in high-quality programming and cable operations will be incredibly valuable in driving the strategy and growth of the channel. We look forward to working with Tom and with such strong partners as Sony and Discovery to make in-home 3D a reality," added IMAX CEO Richard L. Gelfond.
Discovery Communications senior vice president of digital distribution Rebecca Glashow will oversee distribution for the channel, offering cable and satellite providers the opportunity to bring the next-generation 3D television experience to their subscribers. Sony Pictures Television president, advertiser sales Amy Carney will lead advertising/promotion sales, and Sony Pictures Television will provide all related advertising sales-related services for the joint venture.
Cosgrove most recently served as Discovery Channel executive vice president and COO. While with Discovery Channel, he was also responsible for the formation of the Discovery Times Square Exhibitions, as well as windowing strategies for all Discovery digital platforms.
