News Corp. to Change Name of U.K. Version of FX Network to 'Fox'

our editor recommends

Fox Writers Program Grows to Include Book, Film Components

'The Following': Can a Fox Audience Love a Serial Killer?

FX, Louis C.K. Delay 'Louie' Season 4 to Spring 2014

LONDON - News Corp. cable network FX will in the U.K. be rebranded and use the Fox name starting next year. And it will add some comedies to its traditionally drama-centric schedule.

FX, which airs such shows as The Walking Dead, True Blood, NCIS, Burn Notice and Dexter here, will become the first U.K. network of Rupert Murdoch's entertainment conglomerate to use the Fox brand, the Guardian reported.

That excludes the company's U.S. news channel Fox News, which is carried here by pay TV giant BSkyB on its Sky Digital platform.

Fox is a "brand name recognized globally for delivering smart entertainment with an edge," Jason Thorp, Fox International Channels managing director for the U.K. and Africa, told the Guardian.

FX launched in the U.K. in 2004 as an international version of the U.S. network with a focus on audiences in the 25-44-year age range.

The Guardian said the network will add such shows as Da Vinci's Demons and talk show The Ricki Lake Show to its schedule.

But it will also add new comedies, such as Louie, featuring Louis CK, and Men at Work. The network already airs such comedies as Family Guy and Arrested Development.

Representatives for News Corp. and Fox International Channels weren't immediately available for comment.

Email: Georg.Szalai@thr.com
Twitter: @georgszalai