Hallmark pacts for Par series
Movies slotted for primetime; series set for daytime
The Hallmark Channel continues to play cards with Paramount Domestic Television, pacting with the studio for long-term use of dozens of its classic TV titles, including 30 "Perry Mason" films and such laffers as "The Beverly Hillbillies" and "Mork & Mindy."
A partnership between the two was forged earlier this month when Hallmark picked up a second one-week-delayed run of Paramount's upcoming daytime syndie "Life Moments."
Cabler's latest acquisition keeps with its recent drive to beef up its offerings. In March, Hallmark laid out an ambitious plan to produce one original movie every month starting in January.
"This agreement with Paramount is another example of the creative ways that we at Hallmark are working with outside producers and distributors to deliver top-quality programming to our viewers," said David Kenin, exec VP of programming at Hallmark parent Crown Media United States.
"With the 'Perry Mason' movies, other well-known mysteries and original movies we will commission, we are building appointment television for our viewers," he added.
Other recently acquired shows in Hallmark's stable are sitcoms "Hogan's Heroes" and "The Lucy Show" and Westerns "Raw Hide" and "Gunslinger."
Movies are expected to be slotted in primetime on Hallmark; the series should be placed in daytime starting this summer.
