ION TELEVISION ADDS TWO VIEWER FAVORITES, “BURN NOTICE” AND “WHITE COLLAR,” TO ITS GROWING LINEUP

NEW YORK, July 8, 2013 – ION Television today announced the acquisition of two of television’s most popular cable series, “Burn Notice” and “White Collar,” underscoring the network's commitment to high-quality, critically-acclaimed entertainment content.

 

The announcement comes on the heels of “Burn Notice's” successful seventh season launch on cable, which, like “White Collar,” has been a top 10 drama among Adults 25-54 and 18-49 over the last three seasons. Both shows were the #1 rated scripted cable original series on their respective nights in Adults 25-54. They also have broad appeal with men and women, ranking in the top 15 in the 25-54 and 18-49 age groups. Finally, both shows have high advertiser appeal, each ranking in the top 10 dramas among upscale viewers in the coveted $100k+ income category.

 

“‘Burn Notice’ and ‘White Collar’ have the creative quality and originality we look for to serve smart and engaged audiences with our ‘Positively Entertaining’ brand promise,” said Brandon Burgess, Chairman and CEO, ION Media Networks. “And strategically, we are making a concerted bet on top-performing, high-quality, off-cable shows balancing our strong broadcast series portfolio.”

ION’s off-cable drama portfolio now includes five of the most acclaimed cable productions – “Burn Notice,” “White Collar,” “Psych,” “Leverage” and “Monk.” The portfolio was carefully selected for sensibility and demographic fit with ION’s off-broadcast line-up, including hits like “Criminal Minds,” “Cold Case,” “House” and “Law & Order: Criminal Intent.”

 

“Burn Notice” centers on blacklisted spy Michael Westen (Jeffrey Donovan), who was dumped in his hometown of Miami with no money, no job and no information after receiving his burn notice. And, with no job history, cash or credit, he’s forced to use the skills he’s learned to become a private investigator. With the help of an old friend, Sam (Bruce Campbell), and his ex-girlfriend, Fiona (Gabrielle Anwar), Michael helps people’s problems go away -- all the while searching to find out who burned him.

 

“Burn Notice” was created by writer and executive producer Matt Nix, along with executive producers Alfredo Barrios Jr. and Mikkel Bondesen. The series is distributed by Twentieth Television and produced by Fox Television Studios, Fuse Entertainment and Flying Glass of Milk Productions (season two).

 

“White Collar” follows an unlikely crime-solving partnership between Neal Caffrey (Matt Bomer), a charming con man turned FBI consultant, and Peter Burke (Tim DeKay), the Federal Agent charged with keeping him in line. Working outside of his cell, Neal provides criminal expertise to assist the feds in capturing elusive criminals in exchange for his eventual freedom. Despite his growing friendship with Peter and his success on several cases, Neal still draws scrutiny and a watchful eye from his past actions.

 

“White Collar” was created by writer and executive producer Jeff Eastin, along with executive producer Jeff King. Distributed by Twentieth Television, the series is produced by Fox Television Studios and Jeff Eastin & Warrior George Productions.

 

Sources: Nielsen Media Research. All telecasts, 09/28/09-09/30/2012, BN (Thursdays) season 6B, 11/8/12-12/20/12; WC (Tuesdays) Season 4B, 1/22/13-3/5/13; cable originals all telecasts

 

About ION Television
A leading U.S. general entertainment network, ION Television combines high-quality programming and dependable distribution with an attitude of innovation and growth. Its "Positively Entertaining" network brand positioning features a formula of proven series, an expansive catalog of blockbuster movies and a commitment to introduce new original programming. ION Television has grown its Adults 25-54 audience by 69% since launching just five years ago and has consistently remained among the top 15 entertainment networks. For more information, visit www.iontelevision.com.