More VOD from TMN

The Movie Network has launched a second on-demand channel stocked with older, classic films. Mpix OnDemand will carry up to 30 films at a time, and launched with titles including the first five Rockys, The Color Purple and The Great Escape. TMN launched its first on-demand channel in June 2004.

BGM drops the ‘B’

Bell Globemedia has changed its name to CTVglobemedia, reflecting a recent ownership shuffle in which parent BCE sold off most of its shares, dropping to 15% from 68.5%. CGM controls CTV, its family of cable channels and The Globe and Mail.

Kudos for Crewson

ACTRA Toronto has tapped Wendy Crewson for its 2006 Award of Excellence, in recognition of her work on screen (ReGenesis, Air Force One) and in the lobbies of Ottawa. She will receive the prize during the union’s annual awards on Feb. 23.

More time at CTF

The Canadian Television Fund has extended its deadline for French-language projects from outside Quebec – to a ‘first come, first served’ basis until its funds are exhausted or Jan. 31, whichever comes first.

BCE drops satellites

The signals for CTV, CBC, TVA and other broadcasters will change hands in 2007 as BCE sells off its satellite operations to a newly formed Crown corporation and its U.S.-based partner, Loral Space and Communications.

The $3.4-billion deal will transfer Telesat Canada and its fleet of 11 satellites to PSP Investments, an acquisition company formed by Canada’s Public Sector Investment Board and Loral, a satellite maker and service provider based in New York.

The new company, Telesat, will be headquartered in Ottawa. The deal follows BCE’s recent push to return to its core telephone business and is expected to close by mid-2007.

Rogers adds AMC, BBC

Rogers has added BBC World and American Movie Classics to its cable lineup, making room for the in-demand cable channels by bumping CNN Headline News, BET and others into the digital realm. U.S.-based AMC, a 24-hour venue for older feature films owned by Rainbow Media Entertainment Services, will join the Rogers lineup in February following a free preview. The cable company says a recent customer survey showed demand for more movies.

CNBC and, depending on area, Speed Channel, BET or CNN Headline News will be switched to the digital tier. The changes take effect Feb 1.