Jewish Television set for 2005 launch

A 24-hour American digital national network, entitled Jewish Television (JTV), is prepping for launch next year under the tagline of “not just news and not just Jews”. JTV is now in talks with major cable and satellite platforms to carry the network as a digital basic service in preparation for an early 2005 debut.

The schedule will mix fact and formats to pull in the key demographic. “The programming strategy is news and reality-driven, yet ‘not just news and not just Jews’,” said JTV ceo John Odoner.

“With a distinctive slant on current events and cultural trends, JTV can target adults 18-49 with a mix of news, comedy, reality shows, business, sports, movies, music, religion, health and Hollywood. Certain programmes naturally will carry a unique Jewish perspective, which happens to be entertaining to a much broader audience.”

As well as acquiring biographies and documentaries from Israeli distributors, JTV is working with Sal Anthony of Forever Films International to develop reality-based programming.

So far shows in development include daytime newscasts, discussion show Two Jews, Three Opinions, political commentary show Jewishly Incorrect, Jewish televangelism, Bible quizshow Genesis 9:0 and a music video show hosted by Juliette Powell.

JTV plans to draw on a tripartite revenue stream including advertising, targeted home shopping and licence fees. To help secure carriage, license fees initially will be waived. The network is negotiating a satellite transport agreement with satellite service provider OlympuSAT.

JTV is supported by an advisory council whose members include Robert Seefeld of Emerald Technology, Helaine Ciporen formerly of Warner Amex Satellite Entertainment, media player Dr Leonard Makowka, sports TV veteran Bill Mazer and author Cynthia Ozick.