from mediaweek.com


TNN Rebrands Itself Spike TV

TNN: The National Network will become Spike TV on June 16 and will be
repositioned as the first network targeting men.

"Today the first network for men has a name, and it's Spike TV," said
Albie Hecht, president of TNN. "Spike TV captures the attributes and
essence of what we want the first network for men to be. It's
unapologetically male; it's active; it's smart and contemporary with a
personality that's aggressive and irreverent. This is a first major step
in our journey to super-serving men in a way no one has done before."

The network's new logo will be unveiled at the MTV Networks upfront
presentation in New York City on Tuesday, May 6.

During a conference call, Hecht announced the network's first slate of
male-skewing programming, which includes partnerships with Men's Health
magazine and CBS MarketWatch.

The re-naming of the channel will be supported by a multi-million dollar
awareness campaign that will include on-air, outdoor and print
advertising.

Spike TV will be available in 86 million homes. -- Richard Brunelli

BREAKING NEWS CAN BE FOUND THROUGHOUT THE DAY AT

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Full release and slate of specials:

- Network President Albie Hecht Announces TNN To Change Its Name June 16
- Network Will Unveil New Logo At MTVN Upfront May 6

NEW YORK, April 15 -- In a conference call today with national consumer, trade and business media, network president Albie Hecht announced that TNN: The National Network will be re-named Spike TV, reflecting its new brand positioning as the first network for men. The name change will take effect on-air on Monday, June 16, and the network's new logo will be unveiled at the MTV Networks upfront presentation in New York City on Tuesday, May 6.
"Today the first network for men has a name, and its Spike TV," Hecht said in making the announcement. "Spike TV captures the attributes and essence of what we want the first network for men to be. It's unapologetically male; it's active; it's smart and contemporary with a personality that's aggressive and irreverent. It's a name we feel our audience will get and make a connection
with. I like Spike! This is a first major step in our journey to super-serving men in a way no one has done before."
Mr. Hecht made the announcement of the new name during a conference call in which he announced the network's first slate of male-skewing programming, which included partnerships with Men's Health magazine, CBS MarketWatch, as well as a schedule of new series and specials geared to appealing to the wide
range of men's entertainment interests.
Added Herb Scannell, President, Nickelodeon, TV Land and Spike TV, "When we decided use our near 65% male audience skew and become the first network for men, we knew we needed a name that was a strong statement of what this brand will be. Spike TV is going to be a great addition to our portfolio of
channels and will laser in on its target male demo and serve them the way Nickelodeon serves kids and TV Land serves classic TV lovers."
The re-naming of the channel will be supported by a multi-million dollar awareness campaign that will include on-air, outdoor and print advertising.
For programming listing guides, Spike TV will utilize the abbreviation SPIKE.




The First Network For Men Announces First Slate of Brand-Defining Series, Specials and Partnerships For 2003-04 Season

- Men's Health, Stuff and CBS MarketWatch Join The First Network for Men For Exclusive Lifestyle and Information Reports
- Network's New Schedule to Address Men's Lifestyle Interests through Slate of New Reality, Travel, Finance, Automotive and Sports-Themed Series and Specials Launching in 2003-04 Season

NEW YORK, April 15 -- As part of an expansive, multi-year
strategy in its re-branding, the first network for men unveils its first round of partnerships, series and specials created to make the network the key television destination for the full range of men's lifestyle interests.
Building upon its already strong entertainment base, the network will begin to launch in third quarter 2003 a new programming schedule including: first-ever, content-sharing partnerships with Men's Health, Stuff magazine and CBS MarketWatch; a slate of new series and specials, from reality shows to travel and sports-themed programs; and more than 40 pilots currently in development.
The announcements, made today by the president of the network, Albie Hecht, will further extend the network's brand positioning across a schedule already featuring key properties such as the James Bond franchise, an adult-animation block, C.S.I.: Crime Scene Investigation, the first-ever Video Game Awards, WWE, Slamball and Star Trek: The Next Generation.
"Today's men have a wide variety of entertainment interests, including movies, music, finance, cars, women, sports, comedy and health," Hecht said. "They want it all and they want it all in one place. The new schedule we've begun to create is part of our mission to help guys enjoy their lives through a wide variety of lifestyle programs that only a network fully dedicated to
them can provide."
In refining a brand that addresses and conveys informed, male-focused interests and issues, the network has entered into partnerships with Men's Health magazine, Stuff magazine, and CBS MarketWatch to produce run-of-network lifestyle reports on topics including health, fitness, finance, automotive, technology and news. These hosted reports, which will launch in third quarter
2003, include:

* Men's Health Minutes - With content directly from the pages of one of the most popular men's magazines, Men's Health Minutes will provide information and advice on uniquely male issues, from fitness to relationships and everything in between. Men's Health is the top-ranking magazine for Men 18-34.

* CBS MarketWatch - Guys like money, and girls like guys that have money. Therefore, guys are interested in the financial markets. Three times a day, viewers will get financial updates live from the floor of the NASDAQ and a look into the movers of the days and information about the day's hottest stocks.

* Zero to 60 - Since the first Mustang rolled off the assembly line, there's been something special about the relationship between guys and their cars. Zero to 60 will keep men up to date with the latest in automotive news, do-it-yourself tips, the latest must-have gadgets and more.

* A Guy and His Stuff -Based on the magazine's column of the same name, this feature will wrap around the network's Wednesday-night movies and focus on the latest in gizmos, gadgets and technology for guys. Stuff magazine is aimed at male readers 18-25, with irreverent humor about the subjects they love most: women, sports and gadgets.

* In addition to these informational programs for men, the network is also beginning the roll out of a programming slate that features both new series and specials covering a wide-range of comedy, reality and lifestyle topics, including a men's lifestyle block that will premiere in January 2004. Following is the first slate of new series that will join the first network for men:

New Series:

* Ride With Funkmaster Flex - Its cars meets cribs. Produced and hosted by top DJ and car enthusiast Funkmaster Flex, who takes viewers into his exclusive world of car culture and celebrity, the series premieres August '03 with a guest-star line-up including Eminem, Ja Rule and Nelly, among many others.

* Top 10 Things Every Guy Should Experience (working title) - Follows men as they personally experience once-in-a-lifetime sporting events, such as the Indianapolis 500, Kentucky Derby, NBA Finals, MLB's All-Star Game, PGA Championship and the Super Bowl. A monthly run-of-network feature bowing March '04.

* The Eight-Minute Workout Challenge - Every man's fantasy is to get a great body in only eight minutes a day. Based on the recent surge in short-term fitness workouts, this show challenges its participants (3 guys and 3 gals) to go through brief, intense weight-training regimens that burn fat while building muscle. The series premieres as part of the network's new weekend men's lifestyle block, debuting January '04.

* Crash Test - A series that taps man's insatiable desire to compete and win at almost anything and at any cost, including sometimes their dignity. Here, guys will test their guile and guts as party crashers as they perform a series of tasks at parties to determine who is the ultimate party crasher. The series premieres in December '03.

* Ultimate Vacation Sweepstakes - Turquoise waters, five-star hotels, exotic locations and beautiful people. A travel show where men send in submissions to win the ultimate vacation. The series premieres as part of the network's new weekend men's lifestyle block, debuting January '04.

* The Scene - Exploring men's fascination with entrepreneurial endeavors, this reality series follows a group of would-be Ian Schrager's as they set out to create the next hot spot. From the first planning meeting to opening night, The Scene will chronicle the highs, the stress and the ultimate outcome of men willing to take big risks to become the owner of the next metropolitan "It" place. The series premieres March '04.

In addition to its slate of new series and lifestyle programming, the network will regularly feature special-event programming, such as the previously announced inaugural Video Game Awards (December '03) that will focus on areas of entertainment of particular interest to men. Among the upcoming specials slated for the 03-04 season are:

* 100 Most Irresistible Women - In a special Father's Day gift to men, this prime-time special will count down the year's most 100 irresistible women as voted by viewers. The show premieres in May '03.

* Auto Rocks - It's the Fast & The Furious meets Lollapalooza -- the Oscars of the auto industry! This special will combine the hottest cars of tomorrow with the hottest music stars of today in a truly heavy metal experience. Premieres in March '04

* Stuff Holiday Shopping Special - When it comes to deciding what to buy girlfriends, wives, sons and dads for the holidays, men can never have enough help. This prime-time special, in partnership with Stuff magazine, will offer a look at the year's best holiday gift ideas. The special premieres November '03.

Also, this June, the network will premiere its most ambitious original programming effort to date with a provocative new weekly animation block for guys, anchored by Stan Lee's Stripperella, starring Pamela Anderson; Gary the Rat, starring Kelsey Grammer and from creators Robb and Mark Cullen; and the
return of the breakthrough series Ren & Stimpy, featuring new original and very adult episodes from the mind of John Krisfaluci.

The network also will continue to feature movies with special appeal to men, including extending its Uncut movie franchise with full-length, unedited and limited commercial interruption versions of No Way Out, Blade Runner, The Terminator, The Godfather, The Godfather Part II and The Untouchables, among others. The network also has strengthened its James Bond franchise, building
on the 15 original titles it acquired, with the additional acquisition of first-run window to the most recent Bond release Die Another Day, and rights to The World is Not Enough, License to Kill, and A View To A Kill.

Originally posted by pavanbadal
"[It] will laser in on its target male demo and serve them the way TV Land serves classic TV lovers."

Sure it does. :rolleyes:

I'm actually very interested in watching Spike TV. It has several new programs that might interest me. Hopefully they get rid of the black bar as well.

Pretty much going to be a news channel primarily for men. No sitcoms, no other shows,expect for movies and other assorted junk. Wish our cable system would get Hallmark and TV Land all I can say.:mad:

puke:

And I'm not saying that because I'm a girl. I don't like Oxygen, WE, or Lifetime any better.

Interesting, I guess. Despite being a guy, I probably won't watch that channel much.

Unless of course they add sitcoms, or keep the dramas on. I just pray they get rid of that damn black bar.

I think it's good they are renaming the network, because as long as it's TNN, it will always be remembered as The Nashville Network. And at one point (at least online, lol) The Nothing Network. It's a good change, should be, well, the operative word here is interesting.

Spike TV. Well, I do like the name. However, that's the only thing I like about it now.

In six little letters, B-O-R-I-N-G!!!

:o

I'm sure they'll keep Baywatch, V.I.P., shows like that. If fX does not renew Married...With Children, I think it will fit very well on Spike TV, I still can't believe they renamed the channel. That's the only sitcom I can think of that can fit on that channel now.

Originally posted by pavanbadal
I'm sure they'll keep Baywatch, V.I.P., shows like that. If fX does not renew Married...With Children, I think it will fit very well on Spike TV, I still can't believe they renamed the channel. That's the only sitcom I can think of that can fit on that channel now.

Yeah, you're right. Those shows most likely will stick around. I really could see Married...With Children on Spike TV. It does seem like the only sitcom that would fit.

It's odd that they are renaming the channel, but like I said in my other post, they needed too, because it would forever be compare to The Nashville Network, and The National Network. The name Spike TV is going to be a little hard to get used too...

Other sitcoms that I think would work on the channel are Unhappily Ever After, NewsRadio,Night Court,Beavis and Butthead(even though its a cartoon) and Coach, which would fit better on "spike tv" then nick at nite. Spike TV is sorta a bad name actually, they should have just kept it as TNN. I also dont think they will get a lot of male viewers with the new shows that they announced.

Originally posted by Buddy Hodges
Other sitcoms that I think would work on the channel are Unhappily Ever After, NewsRadio,Night Court,Beavis and Butthead(even though its a cartoon) and Coach, which would fit better on "spike tv" then nick at nite. Spike TV is sorta a bad name actually, they should have just kept it as TNN. I also dont think they will get a lot of male viewers with the new shows that they announced.

Yes, those shows would except NewsRadio or Night Court, I don't think those are Spike TV material. Coach is Spike TV material though.

Theses are the televison show's that I think would be gret for Spike TV


#1 Benson
#2 Amen
#3 227
#4 Empty Nest
#5 Gimme A Break
#6 Alice
#7 9 To 5
#8 Webster
#9 Trapper John M.D.
#10 Mr. Belvedear
#11 Just The 10 Of Us
#12 Diff'rent Strokes
#13 Hunter
#14 Facts Of Life
#15 AfterM*A*S*H




Aaron

Originally posted by Buddy Hodges
Other sitcoms that I think would work on the channel are Unhappily Ever After, NewsRadio,Night Court,Beavis and Butthead(even though its a cartoon) and Coach, which would fit better on "spike tv" then nick at nite. Spike TV is sorta a bad name actually, they should have just kept it as TNN. I also dont think they will get a lot of male viewers with the new shows that they announced.

Man, if they would only add Beavis and Butthead. I swear I would never complain about the station if they aired every single ep of B & B. I love that show. It's a guys show, but a chick can watch and enjoy it too. I love B & B.

Originally posted by gmfox8@msn.com
Theses are the televison show's that I think would be gret for Spike TV


#1 Benson
#2 Amen
#3 227
#4 Empty Nest
#5 Gimme A Break
#6 Alice
#7 9 To 5
#8 Webster
#9 Trapper John M.D.
#10 Mr. Belvedear
#11 Just The 10 Of Us
#12 Diff'rent Strokes
#13 Hunter
#14 Facts Of Life
#15 AfterM*A*S*H




Aaron

Well from those, the only that possibly have a chance would be Trapper John, M.D. and Hunter. The others don't seem to be male friendly. No offense to anyone, but generally, men are stereotyped as being fans of shows like Married ... with Children and cartoon crap like King of the Hill. 227, Alice and The Facts of Life would seem out of place

Do you know if their going to keep Highlander and Seven Days?

Now that we are mentioning reruns of shows, Hunter and CHiPS would make the grade on there,and so would sitcoms such as The Odd Couple,Perfect Strangers,Coach,and maybe Bosom Buddies. These are all shows that cater to both men and women. Since I am a guy, I would appreciate seeing reruns on their lineup. Beavis and Butthead would definitely have to be a want to be on my list. I have not seen the show since MTV took it off the air in reruns in 2000. Only access to it is their movie "Beavis and Butthead Do America" which I have on tape. But so far,as I read,they are having original programming right now,but that could change.

BTW: Spike is also the name of Snoopy's brother in the Peanuts cartoons and also the name of Fonzie's nephew.

I think Coach would be deemed too boring for SPIKE TV's audience, plus it never really had a strong following when itwasn't following "Roseanne". Also, Barry Kemp's brand of humor would probably much more older skewing than SPIKE TV would want. Same goes for Odd Couple, Perfect Strangers & any show older than 10 years or so. If they would have comedies they'd be off Married with Children caliber, most likely w/ a rowdier sensibility.

Well, its kind of interesting to see "Star Trek" under television for men when many guys (including myself) get insulted for being a fan. Regardless of the name, I'll still watch it for "TNG" "DS9" and "Voyager" (Now, 2004, and 2006 respectivly). I could care less about all of the other stuff and still think it was best when they showed "Three's Company", "Kids Say", "Diff'rent Strokes" AND "Star Trek: TNG" But, oh well, maybe some other classic shows will join...

I don't like the idea that they are renaming their network, either. I don't know why they keep changing their image. They went through several name changes, I wonder why they decided to change it yet again. I think by making their schedule better, I think they could add more sitcoms, and add a few dramas, then I'd probably tune in.

I was hoping for TV-Land #2

Originally posted by Impressions
I don't like the idea that they are renaming their network, either. I don't know why they keep changing their image. They went through several name changes, I wonder why they decided to change it yet again. I think by making their schedule better, I think they could add more sitcoms, and add a few dramas, then I'd probably tune in.

I agree with that. All they needed to do was make it a really good channel with sitcoms and dramas, remove the black bar, and it would do good. I never saw a reason to get rid of the Nashville Network, but blame Viacom for that. I've never liked Viacom for what they do to their networks. A syndicated channel, UPN 38. Not sure where it is, but Classictvhits.com has an article on it. Viacom totally took away all the classics on UPN 38 and turned it in to another local syndicate.

I'm just irked at Viacom for a lot of things.

Anyway, I think you guys need to see what they're doing by changing the name again. It's annoying, sure, but I think they're doing it because, like I said in my first post, TNN will always be "The Nashville Network" or "The National Network." They're rebranding themselves, so it makes sense to change the name. Spike TV is an odd choice, lol, but original.

Would "In Living Color" make the grade on their new network???

To answer TV Junkie's question,I will ALWAYS remember TNN as The Nashville Network and nothing else. Seems like when Viacom comes in and try and take over they ruin everything. TV Land is not the same channel it was when it first started out. CMT(Country Music Television) has been reduced to showing the same programming over and over again and showing MTV's and VH1's rejects(examples: Kid Rock and Sheryl Crowe's Picture and Lisa Marie Presley's Lights Out which are definitely not country at all). MTV,all they show on there is a bunch of junk,reducing their showing of good videos to the wee hours of the morning. VH1 is about the same as CMT,only slightly better,but all they show now is movies and other junk. And Pamela Anderson in another show,PLEASE!!! She is no actress!!! Are Pamela Anderson and Viacom trying to take control of the entire network of shows??? Even if she's Kid Rock's girlfriend/wife/fiancee,I don't think Pamela Anderson is much of an actress.

"Perfect Strangers," and "Bossom Buddies," won't fit on Spike TV's line-up--- I always considered those two shows a bit too femenine.

Although the following shows are a bit "old"- I'm sure many male fans still appreciate them very much, "The Odd Couple," and "Three's Company."

If we go more current- "Unhappily Ever After," "Married With Children," "King of The Hill," "Simpsons," and of course, "That 70's Show."

"ALF" could be another candidate. He has always had a big male following.

Plus he's a good friend with all those athlete's. ;)

Originally posted by gmfox8@msn.com
Theses are the televison show's that I think would be gret for Spike TV


#1 Benson
#2 Amen
#3 227
#4 Empty Nest
#5 Gimme A Break
#6 Alice
#7 9 To 5
#8 Webster
#9 Trapper John M.D.
#10 Mr. Belvedear
#11 Just The 10 Of Us
#12 Diff'rent Strokes
#13 Hunter
#14 Facts Of Life
#15 AfterM*A*S*H

All of those with the exception of Trapper Joh M.D. and Hunter are so not Spike TV material. The channel is being geared toward MEN, and a lot of those shows aren't geared toward men, especially Webster. That's more of a kid-friendly show and family-oriented. Just The Ten of Us, 227, Facts of Life, Diff'rent Strokes, Mr. Belvedere, and Gimme A Break! are also more family-friendly. And Alice seems more like Lifetime material.

As far as I'm concerned, it can never truly be considered "television for men" unless they include the quintessential men's program: The Three Stooges.

This is the first place where you'll see the logo:
(An alternate logo was posted at classictvhits.com on Monday)

Originally posted by Jimbo
As far as I'm concerned, it can never truly be considered "television for men" unless they include the quintessential men's program: The Three Stooges.

So true. My dad and I love the Three Stooges, but my Mom an two sisters hate them. The Three Stooges more or less is a guy thing. And really should be on a channel for men.

UPN 38 is a station in the Boston area that used to be called WSBK 38 before being taken over by Viacom. It never really showed many Classic sitcoms it showed a lot of "Small Wonder", "Saved By The Bell" and "Punky Brewster" type shows.. I haven't gotten the show in awhile because my cable system in Rhode Island dropped all Massachusett stations... I haven't seen it in like 5 years but last time i had it they were showing "Moesha" and "Mash" reruns.

I Just heard some news about this at a Wrestling site i go to. They mentioned this because Most WWE Programming is on TNN/Spike TV



Spike Lee is suing Viacom for them renaming TNN "Spike TV". The judge in the case has asked Viacom to present a defense as to why Lee is incorrect in his assumption, which shouldn't be difficult for a first grade student, let alone an actual lawyer.


Credit: http://www.wrestlezone.com/articles/56762441.php

I was going through the channels last night looking for something to watch when I came up to TNN, and saw that they had the SpikeTV logo in the corner. It was really small and the same style font that Pav had posted before. And NO BLACK BAR! It was about midnight last night too. I don't know if SpikeTV plans to use the black bar or not, but if they don't, then the channel looks so much better. It was hardly noticeable. Like the Lifetime logo, only smaller. Just thought I'd share.

Originally posted by Original Prankster
I was going through the channels last night looking for something to watch when I came up to TNN, and saw that they had the SpikeTV logo in the corner. It was really small and the same style font that Pav had posted before. And NO BLACK BAR! It was about midnight last night too. I don't know if SpikeTV plans to use the black bar or not, but if they don't, then the channel looks so much better. It was hardly noticeable. Like the Lifetime logo, only smaller. Just thought I'd share.

Wow. That's cool. I hope they do decide not to keep the black bar. I have a feeling they will though... was it a movie last night? Because I've noticed on some movies, TNN was leaving off it's black bar. Just a thought. But I do hope they are removing the black bar permanently.

Originally posted by TVJunkie101


Wow. That's cool. I hope they do decide not to keep the black bar. I have a feeling they will though... was it a movie last night? Because I've noticed on some movies, TNN was leaving off it's black bar. Just a thought. But I do hope they are removing the black bar permanently.

Hmm, I'm not sure. I watched it for a few minutes, but all I got was there was this cop staking a criminal in a rectory? There were a whole bunch of priests there too. I think it was Higlander, but I've never seen the show. I'm going to check the listings.

Okay, it was actually something called '7 Days'. I don't know if that's a regular series or not, but it was an hour long, so I'm assuming so. Oh well, maybe they were just testing it out since it was 2AM on the east coast.

Originally posted by Original Prankster
Hmm, I'm not sure. I watched it for a few minutes, but all I got was there was this cop staking a criminal in a rectory? There were a whole bunch of priests there too. I think it was Higlander, but I've never seen the show. I'm going to check the listings.

Okay, it was actually something called '7 Days'. I don't know if that's a regular series or not, but it was an hour long, so I'm assuming so. Oh well, maybe they were just testing it out since it was 2AM on the east coast.

Okay. I've never seen the show, but I think it was on UPN a year or two ago, and TNN added it in April. I have TNN on now, and (of course, Real TV is on) and the black bar and TNN logo are still there, but half the time it goes back to saying "coming june 16th spike tv"

hmm, it is interesting, so you must be right that they were testing it.

I've seen "7 Days" it was on UPN from 1998-2001 and it starred Johnathan LaPaglia as a government agent dedicated to correcting errors that occured in previous weeks, he does this through time travel. It was an okay show but got crappy ratings (like all other UPN shows, lol)...

Because of Spike Lee's lawsuit against Spike TV. Spike TV will not go in effect on Monday. It will remain TNN until further notice. On screen has a new logo for TNN and no black bar:

Originally posted by pavanbadal
Because of Spike Lee's lawsuit against Spike TV. Spike TV will not go in effect on Monday. It will remain TNN until further notice. On screen has a new logo for TNN and no black bar:

Well I'm not really dissapointed. Actually glad if they get rid of the black bar. I was watching TNN last night and noticed that the black bar was there, but nothing was written. Just the logo in it's usualy spot. I thought it was kind of odd. The only show I watch on TNN anymore is Star Trek: TNG. Hm....is the new programming still coming though? Like Ren and Stimpy and the others programs that were supposed to premiere this month?

See, this is what TNN should have done a long time ago. Just stick with the clear logo like they used for movies. It took them this long to realize they could do this?

Originally posted by Original Prankster
Hm....is the new programming still coming though? Like Ren and Stimpy and the others programs that were supposed to premiere this month?



Yes "The Strip" animation block is still coming.

Looks like the Spike TV Launch Party which was scheduled to air at 8pm today will not air. It had stars like Nicole Eggert, Pamela Anderson, Kelsey Grammer, Carmen Electra, Steve Austin, Lance Bass, and more.

TNN's change to Spike TV is still TBA.
On Friday, New York Appellate Court judge Luis Gonzalez denied Viacom's request to overturn Spike Lee's preliminary injunction against use of Spike moniker.

Cabler had planned to launch a rebranded Spike TV today. On Friday, all references to Spike TV on the Web site, including a countdown, were removed. A broadcast of last Tuesday's Spike TV launch party at the Playboy Mansion was removed from tonight's sked.


Otherwise, first bit of new programming, including animation block -- featuring a new adult version of "Ren & Stimpy," "Gary the Rat" and "Stripperella" -- will still launch June 26.

Channel's latest statement read: "We are continuing on our path to build the first network for men, and we will proceed on schedule with the premieres of our exciting new programs. Until this matter is resolved, we will remain the New TNN."

Although Lee filed suit against TNN, MTV and Viacom, he is still committed to direct Showtime pilot "SFC," which went into production June 6 in Canada. With DDB Worldwide, he is also the founding partner of ad agency Spike DDB.

Last Thursday's State Supreme Court ruling rejected Viacom's argument that the first name of a celebrity without more identifying material is not entitled to protection under state law. Acting Justice Walter B. Tolub cited Cher, Madonna and Sting as celebrities who are recognized on a single-name basis.

Viacom returns to court June 17 to make its case before the full panel of the Appellate Division.

There was no news as to whether canine Spike, who appears in Par's "The Rugrats Go Wild," will also bite the hand that feeds him and join Lee in a class-action suit.

thank god! i HATE the blackbar! now i can watch Baywatch without a big strip of black covering part of the girls up.

Yet they still are showing more episodes of Real TV!!! 7 episodes of it a day this time,and several more on weekends. At least I don't have to watch it,I imagine they have shown the same episodes at least 50 times or more.

And oh yes, Pamela Anderson in yet another show besides Baywatch and V.I.P. and now you can wake up(not literally) with her for $8 a month with an alarm system for her to tell you to wake up. I can wake up better by myself, thank you.

At least they removed that damned black bar.

Originally posted by pavanbadal
Looks like the Spike TV Launch Party which was scheduled to air at 8pm today will not air. It had stars like Nicole Eggert, Pamela Anderson, Kelsey Grammer, Carmen Electra, Steve Austin, Lance Bass, and more.


Who would have thought that one man could cause this much chaos to a multiple million dollar operation? It is the piece de resistance that makes for a most righteous day I say, a righteous day!

I had quit watching this channel on February 1 after the terrible way they treated the James Bond Marathon last year, specifically by animating the Deadly Black Bar to promote the show Taboo! Even though I never miss a Bond Marathon early or late decision, this broke my tolerance level for the channel.

When I read about the Spike TV change, I figured that the channel was really struggling to gain a following. I wonder how the channel will do now?


TNN's change to Spike TV is still TBA.
On Friday, New York Appellate Court judge Luis Gonzalez denied Viacom's request to overturn Spike Lee's preliminary injunction against use of Spike moniker.


The lawsuit itself is bogus and could be perceived as a way to draw cheap publicity for Spike Lee. An African American, Lee overestimates his importance to the culture at large anyway; yea to society, but suing over the name Spike? Let's comment on that.


Cabler had planned to launch a rebranded Spike TV today. On Friday, all references to Spike TV on the Web site, including a countdown, were removed. A broadcast of last Tuesday's Spike TV launch party at the Playboy Mansion was removed from tonight's sked.


And now I'm sure that this channel's gonna suckola. For the Playboy Mansion is most definitely out of taste. It stereotypes big time and is CheeseWiz. Let's give Spike Lee a Handclap!


Otherwise, first bit of new programming, including animation block -- featuring a new adult version of "Ren & Stimpy," "Gary the Rat" and "Stripperella" -- will still launch June 26.

Channel's latest statement read: "We are continuing on our path to build the first network for men, and we will proceed on schedule with the premieres of our exciting new programs. Until this matter is resolved, we will remain the New TNN."


Well bless their heart! For I have seen several programs w/no Deadly Black Bar; just the bug in the corner. This automatically upgrades them to a D - - right there on the old report card. But and however...Spike has lost the concept. An outsider has horned in. Let's do analysis.


Although Lee filed suit against TNN, MTV and Viacom, he is still committed to direct Showtime pilot "SFC," which went into production June 6 in Canada. With DDB Worldwide, he is also the founding partner of ad agency Spike DDB.

Last Thursday's State Supreme Court ruling rejected Viacom's argument that the first name of a celebrity without more identifying material is not entitled to protection under state law. Acting Justice Walter B. Tolub cited Cher, Madonna and Sting as celebrities who are recognized on a single-name basis.


The best that can be hoped for in Lee's case is trademark infrigement. If he has not protected the name Spike as "his concept", the name becomes public domain and is lost to him forever. Uh oh, my bad. Spike is just a generic name now.

Retro Man remembers the name "Cher" from "Sonny and Cher". She was never just "Cher". A "madonna" is a statue of some sort I believe. Madonna has no claim to that name as a concept. Sting is a rock singer...and a former pro wrestler. These individuals didn't lay claim to their name first.

And neither did Spike Lee. Spike is a generic term meaning "a downward hit in volleyball" or a "sharp metal object". One could also spike or "add a substance" to one's drink, like adding alcohol to punch at the prom.

This lawsuit is ridiculous. Don't you think?


Viacom returns to court June 17 to make its case before the full panel of the Appellate Division.

There was no news as to whether canine Spike, who appears in Par's "The Rugrats Go Wild," will also bite the hand that feeds him and join Lee in a class-action suit.


[/COLOR=blue]Or the dog Spike in "Tom and Jerry"[/COLOR]

As long as the black bar goes away, they can change the name of the network to whatever they want.

Also, I'm pleased to say I haven't seen ANY credit crunches on the net....

I wish they would air The Benny Hill Show like the channel for men in Canada does. It is a shame that that show has not been aired for nearly 20 years in the US. It is perfect for a "man's" channel. I've nearly worn out the few tapes of it that I have.

Chad

Well they got a new logo today. It's like the old one, only clearer white (Which is harder on the eyes and more noticeable) and every five minutes or so, it flips around and it say 'America's Network for Men'. It stays that way for five minutes, then flips back to the logo. I thought that they would do that once during the hour, but the logo flipped around the whole hour at least twenty times. It was so distracting.

Originally posted by Original Prankster
Well they got a new logo today. It's like the old one, only clearer white (Which is harder on the eyes and more noticeable) and every five minutes or so, it flips around and it say 'America's Network for Men'. It stays that way for five minutes, then flips back to the logo. I thought that they would do that once during the hour, but the logo flipped around the whole hour at least twenty times. It was so distracting.


Yeah, I just noticed that, and it is annoying. At least on Lifetime, they have just the "Lifetime" logo on the screen and then when it goes to a commercial it then says 'Lifetime...Television For Women.' :confused:

lol Sorry for bumping this up again, but they couldn't keep that logo for one day. NOW it just says 'First Network for Men', and it doesn't turn arounmd or anything to TNN. I have a feeling they still haven't made up their minds though. :p

I sort of feel bad for the people working on Spike TV. They had to invest lots of money on new programming, and large-scale advertising.
Now all of it's going to waste- because a stupid reason at that.

Am I the only one who doesn't think of Spike Lee, when the word "spike" is mentioned?

Originally posted by SBTB Geek
I sort of feel bad for the people working on Spike TV. They had to invest lots of money on new programming, and large-scale advertising.
Now all of it's going to waste- because a stupid reason at that.

Am I the only one who doesn't think of Spike Lee, when the word "spike" is mentioned?

I agree. I do feel bad, and I never think of Spike Lee when the word Spike is mentioned. The whole lawsuit is pathetic, IMO. Spike Lee is just desperate for cash and attention. And the judge was a moron for his first ruling.

I also wish TNN would make up their minds what logo they wanted, but I was watching the new Ren and Stimpy last night and it still had the same logo, TNN for three minutes, New Network for Men for three minutes, vice versa all throughout the program. Hmm.

Spike TV: Joint Public Statement Viacom and Spike Lee

NEW YORK, July 8 -- Viacom and Spike Lee are pleased to announce that they have resolved their differences which allows TNN to go forward with its name change to Spike TV.
Spike Lee said, "On reviewing the circumstances concerning the name change of the network, I no longer believe that Viacom deliberately intended to trade on my name when naming Spike TV. As an artist and a filmmaker, I feel that protection of freedom of expression is a critical value and I am concerned that my efforts to stop Viacom from using the Spike TV name could have the unintended consequence of threatening the First Amendment rights of Viacom and others. I am pleased to be able to resolve this matter and be able to work with Viacom on new projects."
Viacom said "We are pleased to put aside our differences with such a highly respected and influential creative talent as Mr. Lee and we are delighted to have resolved this lawsuit with him."

Spike Lee was sueing?

I was always under the impression it was the leather clad pint-sized hoodlum on the right.

Spike Lee is an idiot! Who the hell does he think he is saying people will confuse him with Spike TV?!? That is nothing but egotistical. His legal fees probably cost more money than all of his crappy movies grossed at the box office.

Spike TV Bows Monday, August 11 At 9:00 AM(ET/PT)

The First Network For Men Debuts 'CBS MarketWatch' Updates and 'Zero To Sixty,' Auto News Minutes With Formula One Racer Danica Patrick
The First Network For Men Proclaims 'Spike TV Day' With Special Programming Celebrating Its Premiere

NEW YORK, July 22 -- On Monday, August 11, at 9:00 AM (ET/PT), The First Network For Men will debut as Spike TV. For its premiere, the network will kick off with a slate of specials and original programming, and will introduce two new daily programming features.
"We're thrilled that the first network for men is proceeding under the banner of Spike TV," said Albie Hecht, President, Spike TV. "Beginning today, and continuing for the remainder of men's lives, we will be building our home base with new programming and specials that speak to a wide range of men's interests. August 11 is Spike TV Day. Men all across this great land should
feel empowered to leave the toilet seat up!"
As part of its branded debut, the network will introduce two new daily features. "CBS MarketWatch," one of the premier financial news outlets, will provide updates two times a day on the current state of world markets and the economy. Additionally, Spike TV will offer "Zero to Sixty," daily one-minute
reports on the latest trends and news from the sleek, turbo-charged automotive industry. Noted business reporter Bambi Francisco anchors "CBS Marketwatch" updates. Formula One racer Danica Patrick, one of the world's top female drivers, hosts "Zero to Sixty."
Spike TV will celebrate its arrival with special programming, including "Road To SlamBall," a one-hour, behind-the-scenes reality movie of this popular extreme team sport; "Party With Spike," a one-hour special hosted by rapper Busta' Rhymes at the Playboy Mansion featuring Pam Anderson, Kelsey Grammer, Carmen Electra, Fred Durst, Nicole Eggert and Kid Rock. The network will also present a special edition of its hit series, "Most Extreme Elimination Challenge," in which contestants and games are named Spike. Finally, as part of its premiere night extravaganza, Spike TV will telecast its signature and highly rated, two-hour, LIVE weekly sports entertainment program WWE Raw, which will include a special surprise Spike moment.
During August, The First Network For Men will roll out its second phase of original programming to include "Ride With Funkmaster Flex," (Saturday, August 16, 7:30-8:00 PM, ET/PT) "Go Inside: Animal House," (Sunday, August 24, 9:00-
10:00 PM, ET/PT), a documentary special on the classic film which marks its 25th anniversary and new seasons of "SlamBall" (Monday, August, 11:05 PM-Midnight, ET/PT) and "Most Extreme Elimination Challenge" Thursday, July 31, 9:00-9:30 PM, ET/PT).
Spike TV was to originally have launched on Monday, June 16. The network is available in 86 million homes and is a division of MTV Networks. MTV Networks owns and operates the cable television programming services MTV: Music Television, MTV2, Nickelodeon/Nick at Nite, TV Land, VH1, CMT: Country Music Television, and Spike TV, as well as The Digital Suite from MTV
Networks, a package of thirteen digital services, all of which are trademarks of MTV Networks. MTV Networks also operates and offers joint ventures, licensing agreements and syndication deals whereby its programming can be seen worldwide.

Everybody is going to confuse Spike TV with that porno channel Spice TV.I just know it.

:faint:

I wish that our cable company would get us Hallmark or TV Land to replace Spike TV. One less channel to watch. As a matter of fact, I haven't watched TNN(now Spike TV) since they changed their lineups with Real TV and Baywatch and stuff like that. Now we're getting shows from the Playboy Mansion and different other things. Now Spike TV will become a :turkey:

In a sense, this could be considered a revival of UPN.

http://www.avclub.com/article/spike-tv-rebrand-itself-paramount-network-249991

I think this is probably due to the channel moving away from their previous identity as a male-oriented channel.

here is another news site about the change

http://deadline.com/2017/02/spike-the-paramount-network-renamed-viacom-rebranding-1201906611/