Whistle Plans to Launch Linear Over-the-Top Channel

Sports media company Whistle said it plans to launch a linear over-the-top TV channel in the fourth quarter.

The company also named Griffin Gmelich executive VP of OTT and content.

Whistle recently acquired Vertical Network, which was founded by Elisabeth Murdoch and backed by Snap.

WhistleTV will offer free ad-supported content 24 hours a day. The programming will include original show, episodic content featuring social media influencers, niche sports league programming inspirational movies and documentaries.

“We’re looking forward to expanding Whistle’s content offerings to the linear OTT space and are pleased that WhistleTV will bring a new slate of diversified IP to market,” said Gmelich. “Whistle’s deep portfolio of existing and new franchises, as well as talent-infused content, will meet audiences everywhere they consume content whether it be on social and soon to be in linear too.”

Jon Lafayette

Jon has been business editor of Broadcasting+Cable since 2010. He focuses on revenue-generating activities, including advertising and distribution, as well as executive intrigue and merger and acquisition activity. Just about any story is fair game, if a dollar sign can make its way into the article. Before B+C, Jon covered the industry for TVWeek, Cable World, Electronic Media, Advertising Age and The New York Post. A native New Yorker, Jon is hiding in plain sight in the suburbs of Chicago.