From Hallmark to Universal Channel

 “Hallmark Channel is one of the most popular features of the DStv offering and now it is becoming revitalised by an international exercise undertaken by Universal Networks International said Elizabeth Dziva, public relations   manager of MultiChoice Zimbabwe.
“From Wednesday, March 24, Hallmark will be renamed Universal Channel as Africa becomes the first market to introduce the new-look channel globally.”
Universal Networks International is the global channel’s division of NBC Universal, one of the world’s premier entertainment networks broadcasting to more than 150-million viewers in 130 countries.
The company is carrying out an exercise on all its core brands aimed at providing original, first-run content to international audiences.  The work being undertaken on the new Universal Channel will enhance its popularity, strengthening the style for which the channel has become well   known. 
An enhanced programme line-up will feature latest seasons of a range of award-winning programmes such as Law and Order, Special Victims’ Unit and Monk.
The name change will take place at 9pm on Wednesday March 24, featuring a double bill of Law and Order Series 17’s premiere.  This is the longest-running crime series in the history of television and its popularity in Africa makes it among the most widely viewed series of its kind on the continent.
“This is an extremely exciting development that will retain the essentials of the Hallmark style, but expand its appeal in such a way that more and more viewers will include Universal Channel under the essential-viewing label,” said Ms Dziva.
“MultiChoice Africa is pleased with this development and feels the impact on viewers in Zimbabwe and elsewhere in Africa will be meaningful from an entertainment perspective.”