Nickelodeon Asia Announces Plans To Premiere Brand New Episode Of "Big Time Rush" In November 2012!

South East Asian Rushers get ready, the all-singing, all-dancing, all American boys are back! Nickelodeon South East Asia has announced the Nickelodeon Asia News in their official Nickelodeon websites, Nick-Asia.com, latest Nickelodeon e-Newsletter (for 'November 2012') that Nickelodeon South East Asia will premiere and show brand new episodes of the hit Nickelodeon live action show "Big Time Rush" in Malaysia, Singapore and the Philippines weekdays between Monday 19th November 2012 and Friday 23rd November 2012 at 5.00am:

New Episodes! - Big Time Rush

Find out the exciting adventures awaiting the boys ahead!

Weekdays, November 19 - 23 @ 5:00am (MY [Nickelodeon Malaysia]/SG [Nickelodeon Singapore]/PH [Nickelodeon Philippines])

Watch!.

Also, from Nickelodeon Asia's "TV Shows - What's New [In November]?" Nickelodeon Highlights section on the official Nickelodeon Asia website, Nick-Asia.com:

Big Time Rush (New Episodes)

Weekday, November 19 - 23 @ 5:00pm (MY/SG/PH)

It's Big Time Rush premiere week and it’s the boys final stop on their world tour. We go behind the scenes and see all the craziness that happens backstage. Mixing in real concert footage, we see the guys prepare for the show and deal with backstage drama.

Now famous and returning home to Palm Woods, tune in to find out what exciting adventures await the boys!

Nickelodeon Asia Announces Plans To Premiere Brand New "Kung Fu Panda: Legends Of Awesomeness" Episodes In November 2012 To Celebrate The November School Holidays

Nickelodeon South East Asia has announced the Nickelodeon Asia News in their official Nickelodeon websites, Nick-Asia.com, latest Nickelodeon e-Newsletter (for 'November 2012') that Nickelodeon South East Asia will premiere and show brand new episodes of the popular animated Nickelodeon series (Nicktoon) "Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness" to celebrate South East Asia's November school holidays, starting from Friday 16th November 2012 at 6.30pm in the Philippines and in Malaysia and Singapore at 7.00pm:

New Episodes! - Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness

Don't miss these brand new episodes of Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness this school holidays!

Start Friday, November 16 @ 6.30pm (PH [Nickelodeon Philippines]); 7.00pm (MY [Nickelodeon Malaysia]/ SG [Nickelodeon Singapore])

Watch!

Also, from Nickelodeon Asia's "TV Shows - What's New [In November]?" Nickelodeon Highlights section on the official Nickelodeon Asia website, Nick-Asia.com:

Kungfu Panda (New Episodes)

Friday, November 16 @ 6:30pm (PH), 7:00pm (MY/SG)

Don’t miss brand new episodes of Kung fu Panda this school holidays!

Po is excited when he discovers a kung fu prodigy, but starts to worry when people seem to prefer the new kid to their beloved Dragon Warrior. And when Shifu’s con-man father comes back into town, Po finds himself in the middle.

Nickelodeon South East Asia To Premiere The Brand New "Dora The Explorer" Special "Dora's Royal Rescue" On Sunday 11th November 2012

Nickelodeon South East Asia has announced in their official Nickelodeon websites, Nick-Asia.com, latest Nickelodeon e-Newsletter (for 'November 2012') that Nickelodeon South East Asia will premiere and show the brand new special episode of Nickelodeon Preschool's popular animated original show "Dora the Explorer" called "Dora's Royal Rescue" in Malaysia and Singapore at 8.30am on Sunday 11th November 2012, as part of "November on Nickelodeon Asia 2012":

Special! - Dora's Royal Rescue

Help Dora & Boots on their knightly adventure to rescue the legendary Don Quixote!

Sunday, November 11 @ 8:30am (MY [Nickelodeon Malaysia]/ SG [Nickelodeon Singapore])

Watch!.

Also, from Nickelodeon Asia's "TV Shows - What's New [In November]?" Nickelodeon Highlights section on the official Nickelodeon Asia website, Nick-Asia.com:

Dora the Explorer : Dora’s Royal Rescue (Premiere)

Friday, November 2 @ 12:00pm (PH), Sunday, November 11 @ 8:30am (MY/ SG)

Dora’s a knight and Boots is her squire as they come to the aid of Rocinante, Don Quixote’s noble and faithful horse. Quixote is imprisoned in an abandoned library inside the Story Castle and Rocinante is determined to rescue him. Dora and Boots ride on horse and donkey into a secret cave and discover an enchanted forest.

Nickelodeon Suites Resort In Orlando, Florida, USA Invites You To Gobble Up The Savings With Their 72 Hour Sale! Celebrate NickMas At The Nick Hotel!

From the latest Nickelodeon Suites Resort (also known as the Nick Hotel / Nickelodeon Hotel) e-Newsletter:

Nickelodeon Suites Resort

Book NOW

Gobble Up the Savings with our 72 Hour Sale! Book Now!

Christmas is only two months away! Plan a festive holiday celebration for your family at the one-and-only Nickelodeon Suites Resort and save big with our 72 Hour Sale!

We have exciting holiday events for Thanksgiving and Christmas including our live show Celebrate Nickmas featuring SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora the Explorer and their Nickelodeon friends singing and dancing in our indoor, snow-filled celebration. Plan the perfect holiday surprise for your family! But don't wait - this offer is only available November 7 - 9, 2012.

Thanksgiving Special Offer includes:

* Rates starting at $109
* $50 Resort Credit per stay
* For stays November 18 - 26
* Use promo code: GOBBLE

Christmas & New Year's Special Offer includes:

* Rates starting at $159
* For stays December 21 - January 2
* Use promo code: JOLLY

Book the "SLIME" of your life today!

Follow the Nickelodeon Suites Resort online: Blog / Facebook / Twitter / Flickr / YouTube

Studio Nick Shows / Water Park & Pool / Water Park

* Promotional rate based on availability, not including resort fees and taxes. Click here for complete terms and conditions.

Nickelodeon Suites Resort, 14500 Continental Gateway, Orlando, FL 32821-5102, www.nickhotel.com

© 2012 Viacom International Inc. All rights reserved.

DirecTV's Summer 2012 Dispute With Viacom Dents DirecTV's Subscription Numbers

From C21Media:

Viacom row dents DirecTV subs

DirecTV has blamed its high cancellation rate during the third quarter of this year on its contract dispute with Viacom, which led to more than 20 channels removed for nine days this summer.

The satellite platform saw its US revenues for the three months to September 30 increase 6% year-on-year to US$5.77bn, up from US$5.42bn.

It attributed this to a larger subscriber base, which grew by 67,000 customers during the period. However, this was down from 327,000 in Q3 2011, a drop the company said was “due to lower gross subscriber additions as well as an increase in the average monthly churn rate.”

DirecTV’s quarterly financial statement released yesterday added: “The higher churn rate in the quarter was principally driven by a contract dispute with a large programmer that resulted in the removal of several channels for nine days in the third quarter.”

Viacom’s 26 channels, including Nickelodeon and MTV, were pulled by DirecTV for nine days in July following a row over carriage fees until a new deal was agreed later that month.

And this led to a higher-than-expected cancellation rate of 1.74%, up from 1.62% for the same period last year.

DirecTV now has a US subscriber base of 19.98 million, up from 19.76 million this time last year.

Meanwhile, DirecTV Latin America drew revenue of US$1.58bn for the third quarter, up from US$1.36bn year-on-year.

It also saw a subscriber increase of 543,000 for the three months to September 30, though this is down from 574,000 for the same period last year. The service now has 9.67 million subscribers in total, up from 7.28 million.

The platform’s Latin American business includes 93% of Sky Brasil, 100% of PanAmericana and 41% of Sky Mexico, though the latter operation is not included in these figures. When Sky Mexico’s 4.88 million subscribers are taken into account, DirecTV Latin America’s business extends to 14.55 million customers.

Overall, DirecTV’s revenues for the quarter rose 8% to US$7.42bn year-on-year, with net income of US$565m, up from US$516m.

DirecTV is currently in production on its first original scripted series, Rogue.

Michael Pickard
07-11-2012
©C21Media

Rainbow Announces New Licensing Deals For "Winx Club"

From Licensing.biz:

BLE 2012: Rainbow strikes big deals

New licensing agents for Winx Club, PopPixie toys on the way and Huntik enjoys success.

Italian producer, distributor and licensor Rainbow has announced a slew of deals at Brand Licensing Europe 2012.

It has signed a host of new licensing agents for its leading brand Winx Club, extending its number of licensees further across Europe and through the Far East and Middle Eastern markets.

New licensees include: CPLG for Germany and Benelux; RBW for Brunei, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand; Tuesday (Bates Group) Indonesia; License2Brand in Greece and FWD Licensing in UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt, Oman, Saudi-Arabia, Tunisia and Morocco.

It has also signed a licensing partnership with US toy firm Jakks Pacific for toy rights to its girls' TV property PopPixie.

Dolls, figurines, dress sets and plush products will hit retail in spring 2014.

In addition, Huntik season two is now CITV's number one rated animated series and number six amongst all animation in free and pay TV.

Huntik is also fast becoming a leading toyline presence. This year it became the best-selling action figure and the number right best-selling toy across boys and girls in Portugal.

Huntik will begin by increasing its international presence in 2013 with the launch of an English-language version Facebook page and also an official Huntik Youtube channel.

Spring 2013 will see Rainbow roll out an extensive range of Huntik games across multiple platforms including console, PC, apps and online.

Tags: brand licensing europe 2012, rainbow, winx club

UK's Virgin Media Launches New Online TV Service Called "TV Anywhere"; Includes On-Demand Content From Nickelodeon UK And Nick Jr. UK

From C21Media:

Virgin launches ‘TV Anywhere’

UK cable operator Virgin is launching a new online TV service that will let subscribers access TV content from anywhere on different devices.

Virgin TV Anywhere will be available via PC or Mac for all Virgin TV customers, allowing them to access more than 4,000 hours of catch-up and on-demand content and to watch live TV over the web, from outside the home.

The TV Anywhere site will launch with 45 channels of live-stream content, with more to be added in time.

The launch line-up includes a wide selection of Sky channels, including Sky Sports and Sky Movies channels, which viewers will be able to stream online provided they subscribe to them as part of their TV package.

The likes of Channel 5, Disney Channel, National Geographic, PBS and a string of music channels will also be available. However, live channel feeds from the UK’s biggest terrestrial broadcasters, the BBC, ITV or Channel 4 are not included at launch.

The on-demand library includes content from networks including Cartoon Network, Discovery, History, MTV and Nickelodeon and will include integrated access to all the terrestrial UK broadcasters’ catch-up services, including the BBC iPlayer, as well as Sky On Demand.

Alongside basic web access, subscribers to Virgin’s TiVo TV packages will also be able to download a Virgin TV Anywhere app.

Initially available for iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch, with Android to follow next year, subscribers can use the app to set and delete recordings on their TiVo box from outside the home.

When users are connected to the same home network as their TiVo box, the app also acts as a second screen service that will detect what channel a user is watching and offer additional information around shows. Users can also share what they’re watching on Facebook and Twitter.

On the app, users will be able to live-stream 25 of the 45 initial TV Anywhere channels when they are connected to Wi-Fi. The main set of channels missing from this offering is premium Sky channels, though conversations are ongoing about adding these.

Virgin’s on-demand catalogue will not be available through the app at launch, though is planned for mobile and tablet devices next year.

Andrew McDonald
07-11-2012
©C21Media

TAGS: digital, Online
GENRES: Entertainment, Movies, Sports
COMPANIES: Cartoon Network, Channel Five, Discovery, Disney Channel, HISTORY, MTV, Nat Geo, Nickelodeon, PBS, Sky Movies, Sky Sports, Virgin Media
SECTIONS: FutureMedia
COUNTRIES: UK

Also, from SlashGear:

Virgin TV Anywhere hits web and iPad/iPhone (but it’s not perfect)

UK broadband and home entertainment provider Virgin TV has launched a new streaming service for desktop browsers and smartphones, Virgin TV Anywhere, including remote control over their TiVo. The new service is a free extra for Virgin TV customers, and offers a selection of live streaming and on-demand content from Sky, BBC iPlayer, ITV, 4oD, Demand 5, Disney, Nickelodeon, and others. However, the service will only work over WiFi, not 3G connections, and mobile users will have to wait a while for on-demand shows.

There are as many as 45 channels at launch, though what you get to watch will depend on what Virgin TV package you’ve subscribed to at home. That means, if you’re a Sky Movies or Sky Sports subscriber, you’ll also get access to content from those channels while you’re out, just as long as you can find a WiFi connection.

Initial live streaming channel line-up:

Unfortunately, that isn’t the only limitation. Virgin says that on-demand access isn’t expected to land on the mobile client until sometime next year, and so until then it’s live streaming only. Update: You’ll also need to have a TiVo box in order to use the mobile app.

Initial on-demand channel line-up:

As for your Virgin-supplied TiVo, users will be able to use the remote control functionality – initially available for iPad, iPhone, and iPod touch users – to remotely set recordings, delete shows, and rate them. It will also work as a touch-remote when users are actually at home in front of their TV.

Subscribers to Virgin TV can find the new Anywhere app for iOS in the App Store [iTunes [UK] link]; Virgin tells us an Android version will be out sometime in 2013. Up to two devices can be used with the service at any one time, and users can change them “on a monthly basis.”

Also, from TrustedReviews:

Virgin Media’s TV Anywhere PC and mobile app goes live

The Virgin Media TV Anywhere service has finally appeared

Virgin Media has launched its long-awaited online portal and mobile app called TV Anywhere.

The service means that Virgin Media TV subscribers can access their package of channels on a Windows or Mac PC or laptop, even if you are away from home, as long as the device has a fixed-line internet or Wi-Fi connection and you are still in the UK. You can register up to two devices, which can be changed once a month.

TV Anywhere is available to all Virgin TV customers for no extra cost. In addition, if you have the Virgin Media TiVo box, you can also use the new accompanying mobile app on an iPad, iPhone or iPod touch. Android support is said to be following in 2013.

The app contains the same programme guide and live viewing features as the web portal, as well as remote control functions (when at home) and the ability to manage recordings at home or away, including scheduling recordings and deleting shows. However, you can’t use it to send TiVo recordings to another screen.

Virgin says its service can be viewed anywhere in the UK, though it will not currently stream over 3G/4G connections. The cloud-based TV Anywhere carries up to 45 live TV channels, depending on your home subscription package, including Sky Sports or Sky Movies if you have added these channels. Virgin Media says it “will be adding further channels to the line-up in due course.”

The service also incorporates TV on-demand features via the web portal, with up to 4,000 hours of programmes on tap, including shows from BBC, ITV, 4oD, Demand 5, Sky 1, Sky Living, Sky Sports, Sky Movies, Disney, Disney XD, Nickelodeon and Nick Jr.

Virgin says its TV on-demand services will expand to mobile and tablet devices in 2013. The TV Anywhere portal and mobile app has been in the works for more than a year and finally brings the cable provider closer to its satellite rival Sky, which offers a Sky remote control app and the popular Sky Go service.

[...]

Also, from MediaTel Newsline:

Virgin TV Anywhere launched

Virgin Media has launched Virgin TV Anywhere, a new 'cloud-based' entertainment service exclusively for Virgin TV customers giving them the flexibility to enjoy their favourite TV content on computers, laptops, and Apple tablets smartphones.

Putting customers in control of their TV viewing and planning, Virgin TV Anywhere takes advantage of Virgin Media's cutting edge home entertainment services, calling on its expertise in television, broadband and mobile to deliver a compelling new TV service that can to be enjoyed anywhere in the UK, even beneath the capital's streets using Virgin Media's public Wi-Fi on London Underground.

With two-thirds of Virgin Media's TV customers regularly using Virgin's TV On Demand service, Virgin TV Anywhere now gives customers the ability to enjoy their favourite channels wherever they want too. Embedded with social media functionality, the service will allow users to share their thoughts on their favourite TV shows and includes a fantastic new app for mobile/tablet devices alongside a brand new online destination for laptops and PCs. Virgin TV Anywhere is available to all Virgin TV customers at no extra cost.

The service comes with the ability to stream live TV, with up to 45 channels to choose from at launch, depending on a customer's TV package and method of access. The line-up includes a wide range of popular channels covering entertainment, kids, sport, news and factual, music and movies, and includes access to premium channels such as Sky Sports or Sky Movies for subscribers to these channels. Virgin Media will be adding further channels to the line-up in due course.

Virgin TV Anywhere also features up to 4,000 hours of TV available to watch On Demand at any time, including Sky On Demand, featuring shows from Sky 1 and Sky Living, as well as Sky Sports and Sky Movies for those subscribing to these services. The service also includes integrated access to catch-up TV services from BBC, ITV, 4oD and Demand 5 while kids will also have a range of great shows from channels including Disney, Disney XD, Nickelodeon and Nick Jr.

Cindy Rose, executive director of digital entertainment at Virgin Media, said: "The world of digital entertainment is moving so fast, consumers are always looking for the next 'big thing' to take advantage of the features and connectivity built into today's gadgets. Virgin TV Anywhere builds upon our fantastic TV service, blending in the best of TiVo and our expertise in broadband and mobile, to bring customers a compelling entertainment experience to enjoy whenever they want, wherever they are - all at no extra cost."

Customers will be able to access Virgin TV Anywhere through the web or through a mobile and tablet app if they have Virgin Media TiVo. The online service is available to all Virgin TV customers, with extra features for TiVo users to manage their boxes through a range of exclusive tools such as remote record and managing 'My Shows'. The mobile and tablet app, initially available on iPad, iPhone and iPod, offers the ability to fully manage TiVo boxes including scheduling recordings and deleting shows. The app also allows customers to rate shows with TiVo's trademark Thumbs Up/Down, view their suggested shows, and also acts as a touch/gesture-based remote control when at home.

The service is launching initially on iPad, iPhone and iPod and available to download from the App store, with Android support to follow in 2013. Up to two devices (including laptops or computers) can be registered at any one time with customers able to change their registered devices on a monthly basis.

Also, from Engadget:

TiVo TV Anywhere app, multi-room streaming launch for Virgin Media viewers

British TiVo owners with Virgin Media have sometimes had to watch as their American counterparts get first crack at the latest extras, not the least of which have been the mobile apps. The UK has just caught up, and then some, now that Virgin has rolled out a finished TV Anywhere app for iOS, Macs and Windows PCs. While the software has the obligatory DVR queuing and remote controls, the "anywhere" portion comes through a selection of as many as 45 live TV channels accessible from most any broadband internet connection. Reinforcing that connected vibe is fresh multi-room streaming to share recorded shows with that TiVo in the basement. TV Anywhere and multi-room support are both gratis parts of a subscription, so Virgin customers have every excuse to liberate their TV viewing.

[Virgin Media Press Release:]

Take your Virgin TV service with you wherever you go

Entertainment, drama, kids, sport, movies, news and factual on the go

Virgin Media today launched Virgin TV Anywhere, a new 'cloud-based' entertainment service exclusively for Virgin TV customers giving them the flexibility to enjoy their favourite TV content on computers, laptops, tablets and smartphones. Putting customers in control of their TV viewing and planning, Virgin TV Anywhere takes advantage of Virgin Media's cutting edge home entertainment services, calling on its expertise in television, broadband and mobile to deliver a compelling new TV service that can to be enjoyed anywhere in the UK1, even beneath the capital's streets using Virgin Media's public Wi-Fi on London Underground.

With two-thirds of Virgin Media's TV customers regularly taking control of their telly viewing through the largest and most advanced TV On Demand service in the UK, Virgin TV Anywhere now gives customers the ability to enjoy their favourite channels wherever they want too. Embedded with social media functionality, the service will allow users to share their thoughts on their favourite TV shows, and includes a fantastic new app for mobile/tablet devices2 alongside a brand new online destination for laptops and PCs. Virgin TV Anywhere is available to all Virgin TV customers at no extra cost.

The service comes with the ability to stream live TV, with up to 45 channels3 to choose from at launch, depending on a customer's TV package and method of access. The line-up includes a wide range of popular channels covering entertainment, kids, sport, news and factual, music and movies, and includes access to premium channels such as Sky Sports or Sky Movies for subscribers to these channels. Virgin Media will be adding further channels to the line-up in due course.

Virgin TV Anywhere also features up to 4,000 hours of TV available to watch On Demand4 at any time, including Sky On Demand, featuring shows from Sky 1 and Sky Living, as well as Sky Sports and Sky Movies for those subscribing to these services. The service also includes integrated access to catch-up TV services from BBC, ITV, 4oD and Demand 5 while kids will also have a range of great shows from channels including Disney, Disney XD, Nickelodeon and Nick Jr to keep them entertained.

Cindy Rose, executive director of digital entertainment at Virgin Media, said: "The world of digital entertainment is moving so fast, consumers are always looking for the next 'big thing' to take advantage of the features and connectivity built into today's gadgets. Virgin TV Anywhere builds upon our fantastic TV service, blending in the best of TiVo and our expertise in broadband and mobile, to bring customers a compelling entertainment experience to enjoy whenever they want, wherever they are – all at no extra cost."

Customers will be able to access Virgin TV Anywhere through the web or through a mobile and tablet app if they have Virgin Media TiVo®. The online service is available to all Virgin TV customers, with extra features for TiVo users to manage their boxes through a range of exclusive tools such as remote record and managing 'My Shows'. The mobile and tablet app, initially available on iPad, iPhone and iPod, offers the ability to fully manage TiVo boxes including scheduling recordings and deleting shows. The app also allows customers to rate shows with TiVo's trademark Thumbs Up/Down, view their suggested shows, and also acts as a touch/gesture-based remote control when at home5.

For further information on Virgin TV Anywhere, head to http://anywhere.virginmedia.com.

Notes to Editors

1 Streaming services on Virgin TV Anywhere can be used anywhere in the UK using a fixed or wireless broadband connection. WiFi recommended for mobile devices. Streaming over 3G is not supported. Whilst there is no charge to use the Virgin TV Anywhere service for Virgin TV customers, charges may apply for using public Wi-Fi or mobile networks.

2 Launching initially on iPad, iPhone and iPod and available to download from the App store. Android support to follow in 2013. Up to two devices (including laptops or computers) can be registered at any one time. Customers can change registered devices on a monthly basis.

3 Initial live streaming channel line-up below. Channel access is based on the TV package customers have and the method of access (online or through the mobile/tablet app). Certain channels may not be available on mobile/tablet devices at launch due to rights restrictions. Virgin Media will be adding further channels to the line-up in due course.

VIA Virgin Media Forum
Source Virgin Media (1), (2), (3)

Viacom International Media Networks Russia And CIS Appoints Elena Balmont As Their New General Manager

From C21Media:

Viacom appoints new Russian boss

Viacom International Media Networks (VIMN) has appointed a new general manager for its Russian and CIS territories from local distributor and channel operator Content Union.

Elena Balmont has been brought in to replace Nicholas Walters, who is leaving in December to pursue an undisclosed independent venture.

Balmont was previously the deputy CEO of Content Union responsible for new business development and advertising and also had a 12 year stint with Russian network CTC Media.

She will be based in Moscow and have responsibility for the operational and strategic management of VIMN's business in the region, which includes 11 channels such as Nickelodeon [Nickelodeon Russia], Paramount Comedy and MTV.

Balmont will also be charged with overseeing further expansion and growth in programme production, channel footprint and digital media. She will report to David Lynn, executive VP and MD, VIMN UK, Australia, Russia & Eastern Europe.

Lynn said: “Russia is a top priority for VIMN with excellent momentum already building across the business including milestone successes in 2012 with the launch of Paramount Comedy and Nickelodeon’s increased distribution to more than 6m households.”

Clive Whittingham
07-11-2012
©C21Media

TAGS: Appointments
GENRES: Entertainment
PEOPLE: David Lynn, Elena Balmont, Nicholas Walters
COMPANIES: MTV, Nickelodeon, Paramount Comedy, Viacom International Media Networks
COUNTRIES: CIS, Russia

Also, from Realscreen:

Viacom names Balmont GM of Russian arm

Elena Balmont (pictured) has been named general manager of Viacom International Media Networks Russia and CIS, replacing Nicholas Walters, who exits VIMN in December.

Based in Moscow, Balmont will have overall responsibility for leading the operational and strategic management of VIMN’s business in Russia and CIS, currently comprising 11 channels including MTV and Paramount Comedy, which are operated under license through local partner ProfMedia.

She will be charged with seeking out new opportunities to grow the business further in the region. Walters, meanwhile, is departing “to pursue a new entrepreneurial venture” next month, according to VIMN.

Balmont joins VIMN from Content Union, where she was deputy CEO. Whilst there, she was responsible for new business development, ad sales and sponsorship growth, and the rebranding of two channels.

She reports to David Lynn, executive VP and MD of VIMN for the UK, Australia, Russia and Eastern Europe, who said: “Elena’s expert insight and relationships within the Russian market, coupled with her tremendous track record will be instrumental in driving VIMN’s next phase of growth and expansion.”

Tags: Elena Balmont, MTV, Russia, Viacom International Media Networks, VIMN

Also, from Broadband TV News:

Balmont to head Viacom in Moscow

Viacom International Media Networks has appointed Elena Balmont to the position of General Manager, Russia & CIS.

Effective immediately, the news was announced by David Lynn, EVP and managing director, VIMN UK, Australia, Russia & Eastern Europe. Balmont replaces Nicholas Walters, who leaves VIMN in December to pursue a new entrepreneurial venture.

Based in Moscow, Elena Balmont has overall responsibility for leading the operational and strategic management of VIMN’s fast growing business in Russia & CIS, currently comprising 11 channels including global brands Nickelodeon, Paramount Comedy and MTV – operated under licence through local partner ProfMedia – while seeking out new opportunities to grow the business further in the region.

“Russia is a top priority for VIMN with excellent momentum already building across the business including milestone successes in 2012 with the launch of Paramount Comedy and Nickelodeon’s increased distribution to more than 6m households,” commented Lynn. “Elena’s expert insight and relationships within the Russian market, coupled with her tremendous track record will be instrumental in driving VIMN’s next phase of growth and expansion.”

Balmont joins VIMN from Content Union LLC where she was Deputy CEO. Prior to this, Elena spent twelve years at Russia TV Network CTC Media in various positions.

Also, from DigitalTVEurope.net:

VIMN hires Russian chief

Viacom International Media Networks has hired Elena Balmont as general manager of its Russian channels following the departure of Nicholas Walters.

Balmont becomes general manager, Viacom International Media Networks Russia and CIS. She joins from Russian broadcaster Content Union, where she was deputy chief executive.

She will report to David Lynn, executive vice-president and managing director, VIMN UK, Australia, Russia and eastern Europe. 
Nicholas Walters will leave the company in December to “pursue a new entrepreneurial venture”.

VIMN operates 11 channels in the region including Nickelodeon, Paramount Comedy and MTV – operated under license through local partner ProfMedia – and is also seeking new opportunities to grow its business.

“Russia is a top priority for VIMN with excellent momentum already building across the business including milestone successes in 2012 with the launch of Paramount Comedy and Nickelodeon’s increased distribution to more than six million households,” said Lynn. 
“It’s a great time to join Viacom International Media Networks, home to some of the world’s biggest brands and best-loved properties that are really resonating with local Russian audiences,” added Balmont. “I have inherited a talented team at a time of real opportunity and I’m looking forward to guiding them forward as we look to take the business to the next level.”

Tags: Channels, News, People, VIMN

Also, from Hollywood Reporter:

Elena Balmont Appointed General Manager of VIMN for Russia & CIS

She will be seeking out opportunities to increase the company's business in the region.

MOSCOW – Elena Balmont has been appointed general manager of Viacom International Media Networks Russia & CIS, VIMN announced.

Joining from Content Union LLC where she was deputy CEO, Balmont, is replacing Nicholas Walters, who is to leave VIMN in December to pursue a new entrepreneurial venture.

Based in Moscow, Balmont will be in charge of VIMN’s operational and strategic management in the fast growing market of Russia and CIS, the company said, adding that she will also be seeking out new opportunities to grow the business further in the region, reporting to David Lynn, executive vice president & managing director, VIMN UK, Australia, Russia & Eastern Europe.

“Russia is a top priority for VIMN with excellent momentum already building across the business including milestone successes in 2012 with the launch of Paramount Comedy and Nickelodeon’s increased distribution to more than 6 million households,” Lynn said in a statement. “Elena’s expert insight and relationships within the Russian market, coupled with her tremendous track record will be instrumental in driving VIMN’s next phase of growth and expansion.”

“It’s a great time to join Viacom International Media Networks, home to some of the world’s biggest brands and best-loved properties that are really resonating with local Russian audiences,” added Balmont. “I have inherited a talented team at a time of real opportunity and I’m looking forward to guiding them forward as we look to take the business to the next level.”

VIMN is currently operating 11 channels in the region, including global brands Nickelodeon, Paramount Comedy and MTV, operated under license through the local partner ProfMedia.

International[,] Asia

Nickelodeon's Latest Movie, "Fun Size", Debuts In Sixth Place In The UK Cinema Box Office Charts

From Digital Spy:

'Skyfall' wins UK box office for second week running

Skyfall has topped the UK box office for the second consecutive weekend.

Daniel Craig's latest James Bond outing pulls in $16.1 million, just a 20% drop from opening weekend, to hold off Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted and secure the top spot.

New release Silent Hill: Revelation charts at number three, while Hotel Transylvania and Taken 2 round out the top five.

Fun Size, the Nickelodeon-produced comedy starring Victoria Justice, bows at number six with £410,028.

Elsewhere, Marion Cotillard's Rust and Bone is the only other new release to make the top ten. The Jacques Audiard-helmed romantic drama debuts at number eight with £252,099.

The UK box office top ten in full:

1. (1) Skyfall - £16,107,687
2. (2) Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted - £2,863,112
3. (-) Silent Hill: Revelation - £1,043,068
4. (5) Hotel Transylvania - £810,821
5. (3) Taken 2 - £688,148
6. (-) Fun Size - £410,028
7. (4) Paranormal Activity 4 - £401,478
8. (-) Rust and Bone - £252,099
9. (7) Frankenweenie - £234,465
10. (6) Sinister - £180,783

Source: Rentrak

Watch Digital Spy's world premiere Skyfall interviews [here on the official Digital Spy website, DigitalSpy.co.uk]: