Lebanons Future TV aims to make a strong comeback with a major revamp, it has been announced. A merge of its two channels into one will be the biggest change, added to a drastic reshuffling of programming and a new visual rebranding of Future TV. Changes are already underway, with the launch of a brand […]
Lebanons Future TV aims to make a strong comeback with a major revamp, it has been announced.
A merge of its two channels into one will be the biggest change, added to a drastic reshuffling of programming and a new visual rebranding of Future TV. Changes are already underway, with the launch of a brand new website and a new package of streamlined icons to appeal to a more youthful audience.
According to The Daily Star, the new programming will include new slots for Lebanese and Turkish dramas, as well as talk shows and entertainment programmes. Current shows, such as regional morning programme, Alam al-Sabah, will get a full reset in pacing and programming as well, aiming to attract a market of younger viewers. All other current shows will be getting new sets and new anchors.
Claude Sabbagha, marketing consultant at Future TV is reported to have said, All our programmes were getting a bit heavy and old. We are aiming to be among the three top TV stations in Lebanon, which is not the case lately. For two or three years we have honestly faced some problems here, but we wanted to explain to people we should not live in the past but look to the future.
Future TV has been through several years of internal struggles and fights, rating hits, layoffs, and a small market share. The station is affiliated with the Future Movement and has had a reputation for becoming a political voice for the party and the March 14 coalition, particularly after the death of former Prime Minister and owner of Future TV, Rafik Hariri, in 2005. The trouble continued with an attack of its headquarters in 2008 during the seizure of West Beirut by Hezbollah and its allies.
Sabbagha hopes that this facelift will shed a new light on the image of Future TV and draw in a wider, fresh audience.
Although being under no illusions of a total escape from the political edge of the channel, it is reported she said: By presenting other kinds of programmes such as social programmes, Lebanese series, variety programmes, light programmes, funny programmes, this is showing to people that yes, we have political programmes, yes, we have our say, and this is our position; but then again we have other programmes addressing all people, be it March 14 or anything, and we are here to attract as many viewers as we can.
The changes are now in place and will start to air this week.
