AMC Networks is changing its name to AMC Global Media.
The name change is effective Wednesday, with the company filing new articles of incorporation in Nevada to reflect the new brand.
AMC Networks is rebranding itself to distinguish itself in an environment where TV networks are becoming less and less important to the strategic priorities of their parent companies.
AMC, in particular, has put more focus on its streaming platforms AMC+, Acorn TV, Shudder, Sundance Now, ALLBLK, HIDIVE and All Reality, as well as its AMC Studios business.
Of course it also continues to operate cable channels like AMC, BBC AMERICA (which includes U.S. distribution and sales responsibilities for BBC News), IFC, SundanceTV and We TV, but while those were once the heart of the company’s business, streaming has upended entertainment.
“Our new name reflects the ongoing transformation of our business into a global media and studio-driven company, with streaming out front as our leading source of domestic revenue,” AMC Global Media CEO Kristin Dolan said Wednesday. “AMC Global Media produces and curates high-quality content and distributes it to viewers around the world through a variety of platforms and partnerships.”
The name change comes as AMC is set to launch a series that is has high hopes for: The Audacity, set in Silicon Valley and from creator Jonathan Glatzer, a veteran of Better Call Saul and Succession. The Audacity debuts this weekend on AMC and AMC+. The company will also host an upfront advertising event later in the month.
Next month The Terror: Devil in Silver, will hit AMC+ on May 7, and You’re Killing Me, a new series starring and executive produced by Brooke Shields will premiere on Acorn TV May 18. In June AMC will premiere the third season of Interview with the Vampire, now called The Vampire Lestat.
The company is controlled by the Dolan family, with James Dolan serving as chairman of the board.
AMC Networks is actually the second media company to rebrand with the suffix “Global Media” in recent memory.
A year ago A+E Networks took the name A+E Global Media in a similar shift, as it de-emphasized pay-TV in favor of its studios business, streaming efforts, and digital ventures.
