DIRECTV First to Launch The History Channel HD (THC HD) Set to Debut in September 2007

Las Vegas, NV – The History Channel® and DIRECTV, Inc. today announced that DIRECTV will be the first to launch The History Channel HD, a new 24-hour high definition television network, scheduled to debut in September 2007. In addition, A&E HD, which debuted in 4Q 2006, will also launch on DIRECTV in September. The announcement was made by David Zagin, Executive Vice President of Distribution AETN.

The History Channel HD™ will simulcast the entire The History Channel lineup of original, non-fiction series and specials. The HD experience will serve to create a stunning new dimension for the compelling content and powerful storytelling that only The History Channel can provide. THC HD will feature a diverse range of programming including hit series Lost Worlds, Dogfights, Digging for the Truth, Cities of the Underworld, and Mega Disasters, and the recently announced Ice Road Truckers, The Universe and Human Weapon as well as thought-provoking specials such as Star Wars: The Legacy Revealed, The Lost Book of Nostradamus, The Hunt for John Wilkes Booth and Stalking Jihad.

“The History Channel HD will give our History fanatics an unparalleled view of History with stunning clarity and rich perspective that they will find nowhere else on the television landscape. We are equally delighted that DIRECTV, one of the nation’s largest programming distributors, will be there with us from the beginning of this exciting launch,” said Zagin. “We look forward to many more partnerships with distributors to bring The History Channel HD to their consumers"

“The History Channel has a large and passionate following among our customers and we’re looking forward to being the first to provide them with their favorite programming in true HD,” said Derek Chang, executive vice president of Strategy and Development, DIRECTV, Inc. “Both The History Channel HD and A&E HD exemplify the kind of high quality programming that we’ll offer DIRECTV customers as we begin a significant expansion of HD channels this fall.”