Verizon Signs Programming Deal with Sundance Channel

Channel to Be Carried on FiOS TV

Oct. 10, 2005, NEW YORK – Verizon today announced a programming-distribution agreement with Sundance Channel to carry the channel on Verizon FiOS TV, which launched Sept. 22 in Keller, Texas. The agreement was signed prior to the Keller launch, and the channel is part of the movie package available to Keller subscribers.

“Verizon is thrilled to add Sundance Channel to the programming options available to Verizon’s FiOS TV customers,” said Terry Denson, vice president of programming and marketing for FiOS TV. “The Sundance mission of supporting independent -minded programming will benefit FiOS TV customers by adding independent feature films, shorts, documentaries, world cinema, animation and original series to the incredible diversity of programming available on FiOS TV.”

Sundance Channel offers audiences a diverse and engaging selection of films, documentaries and original programs, all uncut and commercial-free. In addition to Sundance Channel’s extensive library of award-winning documentaries and independent films, the channel produces an eclectic mix of original series.

“It’s a pleasure to work with Verizon and have the opportunity to distribute Sundance Channel programming via their innovative service. This cutting edge technology is the perfect fit for our unique brand of programming,” said Tom Christie, executive vice president, sales and marketing, Sundance Channel.

Terms of the agreements were not disclosed.

FiOS TV contains a broad collection of all-digital programming with more than 330 channels and more on the way. FiOS TV digital customers will also have access to a large selection of on-demand content that is easy to order and view.

Sundance

Under the creative direction of Robert Redford, Sundance Channel is the television destination for independent-minded viewers seeking something different. Bold, uncompromising and irreverent, Sundance Channel offers audiences a diverse and engaging selection of films, documentaries, and original programs, all uncut and commercial free. Launched in 1996, Sundance Channel is a venture of NBC Universal, Showtime Networks Inc and Robert Redford. Sundance Channel operates independently of the non-profit Sundance Institute and the Sundance Film Festival, but shares the overall Sundance mission of encouraging artistic freedom of expression. Sundance Channel’s website address is www.sundancechannel.com.

Verizon Communications Inc.

With more than $71 billion in annual revenues, Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE:VZ) is one of the world’s leading providers of communications services. Verizon has a diverse work force of 212,000 in four business units: Domestic Telecom provides customers based in 28 states with wireline and other telecommunications services, including broadband. Verizon Wireless owns and operates the nation’s most reliable wireless network, serving 45.5 million voice and data customers across the United States. Information Services operates directory publishing businesses and provides electronic commerce services. International includes wireline and wireless operation and investments, primarily in the Americas and Europe. For more information, visit www.verizon.net.

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