Discovery’s TLC rolls out in CEE, Russian launch to follow

Following its international debut in Norway in March, factual channel provider Discovery Communications has announced the launch of its TLC channel across central and eastern Europe, as well as plans for further expansion of its activities in Russia, where the female-oriented channel will launch in January 2011.

Ahead of its Russian launch, TLC will launch in Poland, Bulgaria and Slovenia on October 1. Targeting women aged 25-49, it will carry non-scripted and scripted entertainment focusing on everything from food, family, and fashion to travel, health and life events. Shows include American Chopper: Senior vs. Junior, Kate Plus 8 and Toddlers & Tiaras. The move will make TLC available in 29 international markets. Discovery Networks International president and CEO Mark Hollinger has said he wants to see the channel in 75 markets, reaching 100 million households next year. As well as Norway, the channel was launched across 20 Asia Pacific markets in September. October 1 will also see its launch in Colombia, following launches in Brazil, Mexico and Argentina.

The Russian version of TLC will carry local programming including a new makeover show Like Mother, Like Daughter, produced by Moscow-based Mastiff.

Discovery is also to launch a commercial-free science education block on the Discovery Channel in Russia called Crazy Break, to air weekdays from 16:00-17:00.