Trailblazing Network Marks its 30th Anniversary Reflecting on a Legacy of Innovative Outdoor Broadcasting
DENVER (April 24, 2024) – Outdoor Channel, the nation’s leader in outdoor entertainment, proudly announces its 30th anniversary today, celebrating three decades of delivering the spirit of outdoor adventure to millions of viewers. Outdoor Channel remains committed to its founding principles and the spirit instilled by George Massie, the man whose passion for the great outdoors inspired millions. From humble beginnings in the early 90’s to a television powerhouse today, Outdoor Channel has continuously evolved, offering the best in hunting, fishing, shooting, and adventure right into viewers’ homes.
“As we mark the 30th anniversary of Outdoor Channel, it’s a moment to reflect on the incredible journey we’ve shared and the profound impact the channel has had on the outdoor community,” said Mike Carney, President & CEO of Outdoor Sportsman Group. “As an industry veteran, I’ve always felt Outdoor Channel has been more than just a broadcaster; it’s been a companion for those of us who live to explore the wilderness. I’ve welcomed the opportunity to revisit the past during this process as we look forward.”
A Journey Through Time – Outdoor Channel’s Rich Legacy
The late George Massie, affectionately known as ‘the buzzard,’ was not only the founder of Outdoor Channel but also a fervent gold prospector and advocate for the rights of miners. He eventually created Outdoor Channel Holdings, of which his son, Perry T. Massie became CEO.
The channel’s commitment to quality broadcasting and best-in-class programming continues as it embarks on more original programming with the likes of Andrew Zimmern and Terry Schappert. Additionally, the network has become a genuine home for adventurous personalities such as Jim Shockey, Lee & Tiffany Lakosky, Michael Waddell, Joe Mantegna and so many more for the past decades.
Its with the creation of primetime blocks of programming, such as “Taste of the Wild” on Monday nights and “American Wild” on Friday evenings, that Outdoor Channel has embraced the unique and adventurous experiences consumers now demand in media consumption. These primetime blocks draw in viewers, all while celebrating the growing popularity of field-to-table fare, as with “Taste of the Wild” and made-in-USA, seen within “American Wild.”
From primetime blocks to week-long series debuts like “Premiere Week” in September, plus live broadcasts of competitions with Major League Fishing or the Archery Shooters Association (ASA), Outdoor Channel continues to reimagine programming for its audiences.
Brief Historical Timeline:
Outdoor Channel Holdings springs to life in 1983, inspired by the legacy of George Massie, a modern-day prospector and host of the channel’s flagship program. The 90’s see the network launching on several MSO’s (multi-system operators) and satellite operators. In the 2000’s, it begins to emerge as the go-to network for all things outdoors by attracting leading experts and personalities in the field, such as Bill Jordan of Realtree, Michael Waddell and Jim Shockey. In 2013, the network was acquired by Kroenke Sports Entertainment (KSE), and became part of Outdoor Sportsman Group along with Sportsman Channel, World Fishing Network, MyOutdoorTV and numerous outdoor-industry leading publications, and digital assets, including websites, apps and more.
Looking Ahead
Today, with numerous award-winning series and personality accolades under its belt, the channel looks to the future, focusing on finding quality educational and entertaining next generation hunt, shoot, fish, and adventure programming.
“Consumers are redefining how they interact and consume media. At Outdoor Channel, we are leading this evolution, offering a diverse range of premium content across traditional platforms like cable and satellite, as well as through streaming services, SVOD, and FAST channels. With our extensive content library, we cater to the ever-changing viewing habits of our audience, solidifying our position as leaders in the space and ensuring that viewers can access the content they love, anytime, anywhere,” shared Carney.
About Outdoor Channel: Outdoor Channel has been taking viewers across America and around the world on unparalleled adventures since 1994. Dedicated to the outdoor lifestyle and conservation, the independent cable network is a division of Outdoor Sportsman Group and provides a complete spectrum of riveting hunting, fishing, shooting and adventure entertainment. Outdoor Channel is the largest outdoor TV footprint in the country and is available in more than 50 countries internationally. Outdoor Channel can be viewed in HD and is accessible by broadband and mobile platforms. For program times and other information, visit www.outdoorchannel.com. Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube.
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