A conversation with...

Karin Simoncini, Managing Director, Fox International Channels, on FX launching Sunday, 26 February 2012

What was the impetus for bringing this new channel to Australia now?

We've done research over the past few years and found a gap in the general entertainment offering aimed at Australian men. FX is truly the perfect brand and channel to fulfill that need. Fox International Channels (FIC) has been incredibly successful globally with our entertainment channels and we worked closely here with FOXTEL to bring this leading global brand into Australia.

FX has been very successful overseas, how much of the channel branding and programming will we see in Australia?

FX is very successful around the world and one of the reasons is that we tailor the channel to each market's needs.  FX globally has a consistent look and feel, but we've done significant work to make the channel appealing to Australian audiences and set it apart from other offerings in the market.  In terms of programming, key shows from FIC will be on FX, such "The Walking Dead."

What are you most excited about over the next year on FX?

Everything! FX has an incredibly strong line-up of shows that make for some amazing TV. The channel looks bold and sleek and it speaks to the men we want to attract. We have some fantastic leading actors in our shows that embody what FX is all about: Timothy Olyphant in the acclaimed "Justified"; Chris Vance in the upcoming "The Transporter" series; and Jason Priestley in "Call me Fitz", to name a few.  Everything on the channel fits together really well to give it a clear character and make it a compelling destination.

Can you share your plans for producing original content? 

We first really want to see what our audience likes and take it from there.

Read about A&E also launching in February
Read about FOX FOOTY also launching in February