DirecTV: Back9Network Finally Coming To Televisions, Hiring
/Dan Haar reports that Connecticut's state-backed Back9Network has signed a multi-year deal for a channel on DirecTV, immediately hiring 40 people after the deal was signed. The network is hoping to offer an alternative to Golf Channel with an emphasis on lifestyle programming.
Back9 has raised about $30 million, including a controversial state package of $5 million, and has hired some big names, notably Ahmad Rashad as executive producer and host. Although Bosworth and others at the media company had said they could make it work with an online audience only, a national TV contract was widely seen as the sole route to success.
Rashad will host The Ahmad Rashad Show, a "behind the scenes" look at the world of golf, as one of three, half-hour shows at the core of the Back9Network programming.
Back9 faces a big hurdle with Comcast (owner of Golf Channel) and Time Warner (takeover target of Comcast) in getting the channel in more homes. Haar wrote about this in April, though it seemed a stretch that the Back9's issues highlighted problems with a possible Comcast-Time Warner merger when the network has shown no sign of even being viable. Monday's announcement could change that perception depending on what Back9 is able to produce when it goes to air.
There is also the issue of founder Jamie Bosworth's divorce from his wife who was slated to be a Back9 anchor. Kevin Rennie reported on the divorce and the potential issues for Back9.
The preening Bosworths have parted. The former Jennifer Lahmers is suing James Bosworth for divorce, according to Connecticut court records. The two were married in Carmel, California on July 2, 2011.
They have maintained a high public profile in Hartford since launching the Back9Network a struggling louche online and cable venture much favored by the Malloy administration. Taxpayers have poured more than $5 million into the startup that has attracted much criticism for its misogynist underscoring. The company raised eyebrows when it hired a former postman, the spouse of Malloy’s chief of staff, after receiving millions in taxpayer funds.Jennifer Bosworth was a frequent face of the operation. She is seeking temporary alimony as the case proceeds.
