MCN Original Videos: Hallmark Channel's Bill Abbott

As Crown Media-owned Hallmark Channel launches the 10th anniversary of its Countdown To Christmas lineup of 40 original holiday-themed movies, Crown Media Family Networks president and CEO  Bill Abbott talks about the ratings success of the programming franchise as well as the network's other seasonally-themed programming offerings. In addition, Abbott gives his thoughts on the future of the emerging digital streaming subscription video on demand (SVOD) platform in an new MCN original video segment.  

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.