Vice announced a major expansion that includes international deals bringing its multi-screen programming available to audiences across 51 territories.
A series of digital, mobile and linear deals with a roster of media partners was announced at the Cannes Lions Festival in France on Tuesday. The expansion adds Vice digital content to over 50 countries with 44 of them receiving the VICELAND television network.
“People don’t like to believe me. Maybe it’s because I drink too much. Mebbe cuz I’m a story teller. But today I have something to confess; I am a liar. I lied,” Vice founder and CEO Shane Smith said in a statement. “Earlier this year it was widely reported that I announced that we would launch VICELAND in 12 countries in 12 months and that is not true. We will in fact be launching in 44 countries (for those keeping score that’s less than 4 months in). Making VICELAND the fastest growing television network in history. Forgive me my sins I love you all.”
The deals range from 3-screen market entries in India and the Middle East, to 24-hour TV channels across Australia and New Zealand, to a stand-alone TV channel across Southeast Asia, and a linear-first venture in Africa.
The Times of India Group, The MOBY Group, SBS Australia, Sky New Zealand, Multi Channels Asia and Groupe V Media are among Vice’s new international partners.