Hearst Media Production Group Expands Partnership with Weigel Broadcasting
Hearst Media Production Group (HMPG), known for its excellence in producing unscripted series, is excited to announce an expanded partnership with Weigel Broadcasting Co. This collaboration marks a significant step forward as it enhances programming offerings on various Weigel multicast networks in 2026.
Exciting New Programming on Weigel Networks
As part of this enhanced partnership, viewers can start enjoying HMPG series such as Journey with Dylan Dreyer and Recipe Rehab with Evette Rios. These shows will debut on the Start TV network, while the Heroes & Icons and Catchy Comedy networks are set to incorporate HMPG shows later in the year. These programs will enrich weekend educational and informational (E/I) time blocks, providing quality content to audiences.
The Start TV, Heroes & Icons, Catchy Comedy, and Dabl networks are accessible in most TV markets across the nation, ensuring that millions of households can view the new offerings via over-the-air broadcasts, select cable, satellite, and streaming services.
Leadership Voices on the Partnership
Frank Biancuzzo, president of HMPG, expressed enthusiasm, stating, "With its strong portfolio of platforms and growing audience, Weigel Broadcasting is an ideal home for our award-winning weekly series." This sentiment is echoed by Neal Sabin, vice-chairman of Weigel Broadcasting Co., who noted that the partnership would further enrich their lineup of high-quality content, bringing even more educational and entertaining programming to viewers.
Strengthening Educational Content
The expanded collaboration demonstrates HMPG's commitment to providing diverse educational programming. HMPG has a vast portfolio of over 30 original series and produces hundreds of hours of engaging content annually. Their shows are distributed across notable broadcast networks and streaming platforms, making quality education accessible to a broader audience.
The Impact of HMPG's Programs
HMPG boasts a library exceeding 6,000 episodes, with its content reaching audiences in over 100 countries globally. The team's efforts ensure that its educational/informational (E/I) programming blocks air nationwide on weekends, showcasing popular shows such as "Weekend Adventure" on ABC stations and "The More You Know" on NBC, among others.
A Commitment to Diverse Content
Beyond educational programming, HMPG produces and distributes various other shows, including FAST channels like Xplore, The Jack Hanna Channel, and Lucky Dog Channel, which are available on popular smart TVs and streaming platforms. With offices in New York, Los Angeles, and Charlotte, HMPG continues to expand its footprint in the entertainment industry.
About Hearst Media Production Group
Hearst Media Production Group is a business unit of Hearst Television and serves as an independent producer and distributor of original programming. They focus on delivering high-quality content for TV stations, broadcast networks, and streaming services, continually striving to engage audiences through innovative storytelling.
About Weigel Broadcasting Co.
Weigel Broadcasting Co. is a renowned family-owned media company based in Chicago. With ownership of national television networks and local broadcast stations, Weigel leads in broadcast television, offering channels such as MeTV, Memorable Entertainment Television, and others. Their extensive reach includes collaborations with major networks like CBS and ABC, and their dedication to quality programming is evident in their original productions, which cater to diverse audience needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the focus of the expanded partnership between HMPG and Weigel Broadcasting?
The partnership aims to enhance educational and engaging programming across Weigel’s multicast networks, bringing new shows to viewers in 2026.
What kinds of programs will be featured on the Start TV network?
New series like Journey with Dylan Dreyer and Recipe Rehab with Evette Rios will be featured, enriching the network's programming lineup.
How many original series does HMPG produce?
HMPG boasts more than 30 original series, contributing numerous hours of programming across various platforms annually.
Where can viewers watch HMPG’s programs?
Viewers can access these shows through various channels, including over-the-air broadcasts, select cable and satellite providers, and streaming services.
What is the significance of HMPG's series library?
The series library, comprising over 6,000 episodes, demonstrates HMPG's global reach and commitment to providing educational content to audiences in over 100 countries.
