Fox and DIRECTV to Offer Best of FOX and FX Network Programming On Demand

Jan. 2006--Fox Entertainment Group and DIRECTV, Inc., announced an agreement to bring viewers the best of FX and FOX Broadcasting on demand through the new DIRECTV Plus DVR (digital video recorder). In an industry first, beginning in March viewers will get a "first look" at prime time hits from FX a full 24-48 hours prior to their initial broadcasts for $2.99 and, later in the year, DIRECTV subscribers will have post-air access to FOX Broadcasting's hottest series for just 99 cents for six to seven days following their national broadcast. The innovative deal will provide DIRECTV subscribers the ability to choose between pre-air and post-air television programming options for the first time ever.

In addition, DIRECTV viewers will have free, on demand access to a weekly showcase of exclusive highlights from Fox Entertainment, including the promotional presentation of limited, full-length television episodes, extended footage from leading Fox programs, and behind the scenes features on Fox films and TV shows.

"We're committed to finding new ways to bring our content to consumers and we think this deal is a huge step forward in giving them greater choice and control over their entertainment experience," said Peter Chernin, President and Chief Operating Officer of News Corporation. "For the very first time, viewers will be able to watch their favorite shows before the rest of the world. And we now have the ability to create different cuts of our programs for the pre-air audience -- versions with additional scenes and materials not included in the network broadcast -- something entirely new. It's an exciting opportunity for the television consumer and for us. Moreover, this new partnership will also enrich the viewing experience by providing access to DIRECTV's enhanced services, features and interactive functionality."

"Growing our interactive/On Demand service is a top priority for DIRECTV and our partnership with Fox is further testament to the commitment DIRECTV is making to delivering the very best in television and entertainment programming," said Chase Carey, president and CEO, DIRECTV, Inc. "By continually offering our subscribers new and exclusive programming choices at their convenience, we not only enhance the viewing experience but broaden the depth of our services and offerings."

Under terms of the agreement, viewers will have on demand access to some of television's most acclaimed dramas, comedies and documentaries including FX's "The Shield," "Rescue Me," "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia," and "30 Days" and FOX Broadcasting's "24," and "Prison Break."

"Television viewing habits continue to evolve and this deal is a prime example of our ongoing effort to bring consumers exciting new ways to individualize their entertainment experience," said Peter Levinsohn, President of Fox Digital Media. "And in DIRECTV, we've found an ideal partner."

The DIRECTV Plus DVR brings the viewing experience to new levels with an array of network programming on demand, one-touch pause, rewind and fast-forward functionality and 100 hours of recording capacity and interactive functionality. The DIRECTV Plus DVR is available at 1-800 DIRECTV, directv.com and all Best Buy and Circuit City retailers nationwide.

SOURCE DIRECTV, Inc.

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