Cablevision Adds UP, Aspire To Lineup

Cablevision Systems Corp. has added the UP network and Aspire to its Optimum TV lineup, the company announced Wednesday.

The launch of UP and Aspire on Optimum TV will be supported with a four-week marketing campaign featuring Aspire owner and creator Earvin “Magic” Johnson. The campaign, which launches on May 19th, will include out-of-home media, with transit advertising on local New York transit lines and city subways, as well as custom cross-channel spots, social media, e-mail blasts and a partnership with local urban radio stations.

“We are pleased to announce the additions of UP and Aspire, two high-quality, family-friendly networks that further enhance the diversity and value of our Optimum TV lineup,” said Bradley Feldman, senior vice president of product management for Cablevision in a statement.  “Additionally, as the only provider of Aspire within the Cablevision service area, our customers will have the benefit of being the first in their neighborhoods with access to Aspire’s unique and uplifting entertainment that focuses on celebrating the African-American culture.”

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.