BBC America Gets Satellite Deal

While BBC America, the BBC’s new 24-hour network featuring the likes of EastEnders, has been slow to pick up any new cable TV distribution, it announced on Oct. 27 its first national direct broadcast satellite carriage from EchoStar Communications, whose service is called DISH Network.

We’re delighted that people who want this channel via satellite can now get it through DISH Network no matter where they live in the U.S., said BBC America general manager Paul Lee.

The DISH Network is in the midst of a national ad campaign. The package that includes BBC America costs $28.99 per month, plus a system starting at $149, not including installation, but carries a rebate.

Besides EastEnders, BBC America also programs such Britcoms as One Foot In The Grave, A Bit of Fry & Laurie, Yes Minister, The Ben Elton Show, as well as acclaimed dramas Casualty andThis Life, not to mention a healthy mix of movies, news and current affairs, documentaries and music shows.