GECs
Zee Smile looks to acquire global formats
MUMBAI: Zee Smile, which is currently exercising in programming high drive, is planning to pick up some globally accepted comic formats. In this regard, the fun and entertainment channel from Zee Network has already initiated talks.
“We are in talks with various agencies to acquire successful global as well as Indian formats. Discussions with various prominent producers are also on,” says Zee Smile business head Nitin Vaidya.
Apart from soaps, Zee Smile has plans to launch other entertainment properties such as game shows and music shows. Vaidya says the channel is game to try everything possible provided it offers fun and relaxation to viewers.
“Our plan is to move away from tear jerkers. Through various studies, we have reached this conclusion that viewers look forward to tension-free shows on television after a hard day’s work. So our effort is to provide him fun and entertainment throughout,” says Vaidya.
The channel is currently going through a re-launch activity. Vaidya says the connectivity issues, which forced the channel to remain passive for almost a year, have been sorted out now.
“Distribution-wise, we are banking on the strong market equity of our distribution bouquet. The good performance Zee Smile delivered in recent times has convinced the cable networks,” affirms Vaidya.
As part of the re-launch, Zee has started seriously selling the channel now. “Selling has just begun. We have started getting very good response from the advertisers and buying is now happening. We have been approached by various advertisers,” Vaidya asserts.
GECs
Samsung TV Plus launches Kings of Comedy channel
New free FAST channel brings iconic Hindi comedy shows to millions of Samsung Smart TV owners.
MUMBAI: Samsung TV Plus has just turned up the laughter volume and it’s completely free. The leading free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) service in India has launched Kings of Comedy, a premium comedy channel featuring some of the country’s most beloved primetime shows. Available exclusively on Samsung TV Plus, the channel delivers back-to-back hits including Comedy Nights with Kapil, Khatra Khatra Khatra, and Comedy Nights Bachao, with no login or subscription required.
The launch marks a milestone for free streaming in India, offering audiences a dedicated comedy destination directly from their Samsung TV home screen. It arrives as Samsung TV Plus India celebrates its 5th anniversary, during which the service has grown its monthly active users by 42 per cent and more than doubled its total viewing hours. The platform now offers over 180 free channels across 14 languages.
Samsung TV Plus India general manager and head of business development Kunal Mehta said, “Comedy is the heartbeat of Hindi entertainment, and Kings of Comedy brings together the shows Indians already love, completely free on their Samsung TV. Our focus remains the same take the content people know and make it effortless to access.”
Globally, Samsung TV Plus has surpassed 100 million monthly active users across more than 4,500 channels, solidifying its position as one of the world’s leading free streaming services.
Kings of Comedy is now available on all compatible Samsung Smart TVs. For viewers seeking non-stop laughter without any cost, this new channel delivers a royal treat proving that sometimes the best entertainment really does come with no strings (or subscriptions) attached.
