News Broadcasting
Turner Classic Movies travels to Canada
MUMBAI: Turner Broadcasting System (TBS) and Shaw Communications are partnering to make Turner Classic Movies (TCM), the channel that celebrates the golden age of the movies, available to a combined 1.7 million Shaw Cable and Star Choice subscribers in Canada.
TCM offers 24 hours of uncut and commercial-free movies every day. From murder mysteries to musicals to vintage children’s favourites, foreign and cult classics to comedies and westerns, TCM positions itself as the definitive classic movie channel.
Each month, the channel also features profiles of great filmmakers and cinema stars, special thematic marathons, original programming related to classic movies, and on-air tributes.
Turner Network Sales executive VP sales and marketing Coleman Breland says, “We are thrilled to provide Shaw Communications customers with the popular, classic programming that has made TCM a favourite among viewers. Shaw Communications is a valued affiliate partner, and we will continue to support their business needs with the delivery of the strongest affiliate marketing and promotional support in the industry.”
TCM executive VP Tom Karsch says, “We are pleased to be able to partner with Shaw Communications in bringing Canadian viewers the best in commercial-free classic movie offerings. The combination of our film delivery along with established and popular franchises such as The Essentials
and our Guest Programmer series provide a compelling and entertaining platform for enjoying the classic movie experience.”
News Broadcasting
BBC to cut up to 2,000 jobs in biggest overhaul in 15 years
Cost pressures and leadership change drive major workforce reduction plan
LONDON: BBC has unveiled plans to cut up to 2,000 jobs, roughly 10 per cent of its global workforce, in what marks its biggest downsizing in 15 years.
The announcement was made during an all-staff meeting led by interim director-general Rhodri Talfan Davies, as the broadcaster moves to tackle mounting financial pressures and reshape its operations.
Between 1,800 and 2,000 roles are expected to be eliminated from a workforce of around 21,500. The cuts form part of a broader plan to save £500 million over the next two years, aimed at offsetting rising costs, stagnating licence fee income and weaker commercial revenues.
In a communication to staff, BBC interim director-general Rhodri Talfan Davies said, “I know this creates real uncertainty, but we wanted to be open about the challenge,” acknowledging the impact the move would have across the organisation.
The restructuring comes at a time of leadership transition. Former director-general Tim Davie stepped down earlier this month, with Matt Brittin, a former Google executive, set to take over the role on May 18, 2026.
While some cost-cutting measures are being implemented immediately, the majority of the structural changes are expected to roll out over the next few years, with full savings targeted by the 2027–2028 financial year.
The broadcaster had earlier signalled its intent to reduce its cost base by around 10 per cent over a three-year period, warning of “difficult choices” as it adapts to shifting economic realities and audience expectations.
With operating costs hovering around £6 billion annually, the BBC’s latest move underscores the scale of the financial challenge it faces, as it balances public service commitments with the need for long-term sustainability in an increasingly competitive media landscape.
