Smithsonian Channel Nets Dish Deal

By R. Thomas Umstead
published

Dish Network has added the Smithsonian Channel to its lineup as part of a carriage deal announced Thursday between Dish and the Smithsonian Networks.

Smithsonian Channel’s standard definition and high definition feeds will be carried as part of Dish America’s Top 250 package, according to network officials.

"As we continue to expand our footprint with cable, DBS and telco distributors nationwide, we couldn’t be more excited to be offered by Dish," said Tom Hayden, President, Smithsonian Networks. "We believe that Dish customers will come to know and appreciate Smithsonian Channel’s unique and high quality programming.”

R. Thomas Umstead
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.