Swiss SVOD service blue Play has acquired its first Québécois series — Les Simone (pictured), created by Kim Lévesque-Lizotte and produced by KOTV.

Barbara Vallant of German-based distributor Aroma TV brokered the deal for Quebec-based KOTV, according to a news release.

The 13 x 30-minute drama, about four female friends in their 30s, stars Anne-Élisabeth Bossé, Rachel Graton, Marie-Ève Perron and Karine Gonthier-Hyndman. It will be part of a women’s month special on Swisscom blue TV alongside global hits including The Handmaid’s Tale and On the Basis of Sex.

The Weather Network

Pelmorex’s The Weather Network (TWN) has expanded into the free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) with a FAST Channel that’s now available on Samsung TV Plus. It’s the first weather-related service in Canada to be provided in a FAST format, according to a news release, which says more placements on other FAST services and devices are scheduled throughout 2023.

TWN already has a connected TV app across multiple devices, which largely provides local weather updates and video content in an on-demand format. The FAST channel, on the other hand, will provide a constant stream of weather- and climate-related content, with tailored programming.

The channel also features a variety of popular Canadian-produced series, including Storm Hunters, Power to the People and Captured, and has a new morning show developed specifically for a streaming audience.

Nelvana, Baeumler Productions

Corus Entertainment’s Nelvana and Baeumler Productions have paired up on a merchandise agency deal for a new global line of products from Canadian HGTV celebrity contractor Bryan Baeumler. The merchandise line, 43°N By Bryan Baeumler, is now available exclusively at 43northbybryan.com with a first wave of products featuring branded apparel and accessories.

The brand reflects the personality, hometown and lifestyle of the host of series such as Island of Bryan and Renovation Resort, said a news release. Carly Slack, director of licensing, retail and marketing at Nelvana, said in a statement that the line “is the first step in expanding the Baeumler brand into a popular consumer products program, including impactful collaborations and exclusive retail partnerships.”

Gusto TV

Ottawa-based international food channel Gusto TV has launched on Cineverse, Cinedigm Corp.’s free, flagship streaming service in the U.S.

Gusto’s lineup of food-related programming is available to Cineverse audiences as a free linear channel, while a select portion of its catalogue will also be accessible on a free ad-supported video-on-demand basis, according to a news release.

Other recent Gusto TV moves in the FAST space include last November’s launch on the free, ad-supported Xumo app on Rogers devices in Canada.

With files from Media in Canada

Photo courtesy of Aroma TV