AFN provides TV entertainment update

The American Forces Network (AFN) continues to work hard to lock in the rights to air Dancing with the Stars and a number of other hit shows that have already debuted in the United States.

The network and its overseas stations have received scores of questions from viewers asking when the current season of Dancing with the Stars and a handful of other hit shows will start airing on AFN.

The reason why the programs aren’t on the airwaves yet is “There have been some major changes to the ever-evolving media industry that require different approaches to content acquisition,” said Kareem Lowe, Chief, Entertainment Programming. “Production companies have always supported our military and want to continue to do so.  It’s just a matter of working out the legalities in an increasingly complex media landscape.”

Some of the other shows include:  Grey’s Anatomy, Station 19, Blackish, Marvel’s Agent of Shield, A Million Little Things, How to Get Away with Murder and The Rookie.

In the past, AFN has been able to lock-in long term contracts to secure broadcast rights. As the nature of broadcast right ownership changes, contracts need to be adjusted accordingly.  AFN encountered a similar challenge in gaining the rights to air UFC fights, and just recently succeeded in getting them back on the AFN airwaves this coming weekend.

Once AFN gets the rights to air the shows Lowe said, “Our goal will be to schedule the shows in such a fashion that will allow our viewers the opportunity to catch-up and enjoy the entire season.”

While Lowe noted he cannot predict when the negotiations will be finalized, he said AFN’s promotion team would heavily advertise the updated viewing schedule.

AFN is seen and heard in more than 160 countries and U.S. territories overseas, as well as U.S. Naval Ships afloat around the world.