The SyFy channel, which is available in the UK on Sky, NOW and Virgin Media, is getting a revamp next month with new shows and a new name: Sky Sci-Fi.
During its re-launch month, starting from July 26, viewers will get to see the long-awaited UK premiere of Canadian paranormal series SurrealEstate, featuring cast members Tim Rozon and Sarah Levy.
Also announced as brand new to the channel and airing in launch month, is zombie series Day of The Dead, inspired by George. A Romero’s horror movie, starring Keenan Tracey and Natalie Malaika.
As before, the channel will also remain home to older sci-fi classics, such as Star Trek, Stargate SG-1 and Quantum Leap.
The channel will continue to have a linear version on the traditional pay-TV platforms, but all of its content will be available to stream on-demand on Sky’s streaming service NOW, as well as on Sky Glass (No word yet on whether the new channel’s catch-up content will be available on Virgin Media’s new Stream box).
The SyFy channel started its life as the Sci Fi Channel, a localised version of an American channel with the same name, owned by NBCUniversal. In 2010, both channels changed their names to the SyFy Channel.
Sky became co-owner of the UK channel when Comcast bought Sky (they also own NBCUniversal), and now, the circle is complete, with SyFy turning back into Sci-Fi. Sky Sci-Fi.
Zai Bennett, Managing Director, Content Sky UK and Ireland, said:
“From space adventures to futuristic fantasy, Sky Sci-Fi will be joining the host of genre-led brands launched in the past year and will offer a new universe for viewers to explore.
“The re-brand will make it easier for people to find exactly what they want, with fan favourites, a multitude of on-demand content, as well as a burst of exciting new shows for sci-fi fanatics”.
At launch, Sky Sci-Fi will offer a selection of genre films such as Bullet Train Down, Thor: God of Thunder and Bram Stoker’s Dracula.
The channel has also acquired Stephen King’s sought-after mini-series: IT and Salem’s Lot.
The changes will come into effect from 11:00am on Tuesday, July 26. The channel will be available on:
Sky Q (and older) – Channel 151
Sky Glass – Channel 116 (117 in Wales)
Virgin Media TV – Channel 138 (HD) and 139 (SD)
On Sky’s NOW streaming service, which is available on most of the major streaming devices, Sky Sci-Fi will be a part of the Entertainment Membership, which costs £9.99/month.
The SyFy channel’s re-brand follows additional Sky TV portfolio changes from last year, including the unveiling of Sky Showcase and Sky Max and the launch of genre-based channels including Sky Comedy, Sky Crime and Sky Documentaries.
Asylum films are they still going to be played that’s the only reason to watch that channel if you loose them then it’s time to cancel the subscription
Hi. Have you any plans to show The Last Train (1999 ITV series) again?
Cheers