Epix Secures NHL Winter Classic Documentary Series

Epix has picked up the National Hockey League’s documentary series focusing on its January Winter Classic game, sources close to both parties confirmed.

The series, which ran on HBO for four seasons, will now appear on the premium series owned by Lionsgate Entertainment, MGM and Paramount Pictures. The network is expected to produce four documentary segments leading up the Jan. 1 outdoor game between the Washington Capitals and the Chicago Blackhawks, said sources.

Epix will also produce a four-segment series leading into the Stadium Series game Feb. 21 at Levi’s Field between the San Jose Sharks and Los Angeles Kings, according to sources.

Epix officials declined to comment on the matter and NHL officials could not be reached for comment.

HBO recently released a statement regarding its decision not to continue its 24/7 NHL Classic series: "Everybody at HBO enjoyed working with the NHL and its teams on 24/7 the past four years. It was an exciting endeavor and we’re very proud of the never-before-seen presentation of the world of hockey that 24/7 was able to capture. There was never an expectation that HBO would chronicle the lead-up to the Winter Classic every year. So we will not be involved with the NHL this season. We wish the NHL the very best and the door will always remain open."

R. Thomas Umstead

R. Thomas Umstead serves as senior content producer, programming for Multichannel News, Broadcasting + Cable and Next TV. During his more than 30-year career as a print and online journalist, Umstead has written articles on a variety of subjects ranging from TV technology, marketing and sports production to content distribution and development. He has provided expert commentary on television issues and trends for such TV, print, radio and streaming outlets as Fox News, CNBC, the Today show, USA Today, The New York Times and National Public Radio. Umstead has also filmed, produced and edited more than 100 original video interviews, profiles and news reports featuring key cable television executives as well as entertainers and celebrity personalities.