AFI BLOG: Media and Technology

Variety

Network hops retro train to Television City

CBS Consumer Products has launched a new licensing push for its classic TV titles, under the new umbrella brand Television City.
Unveiled this week at New York’s licensing show, the Eye has identified at least 150 shows to start licensing under the Television City banner. Shows being pitched to marketers, manufacturers and retailers include “Beverly Hillbillies,” “The Love Boat,” “Taxi,” “Rawhide” and “Mighty Mouse.” Several shows are also celebrating anniversaries next year: “The Twilight Zone” (50th), “The Brady Bunch” (40th) and “Happy Days” (35th).

Initial licensees include Hallmark, which will be producing cards featuring many classic TV titles.

“As we started to talk to licensees, they responded really well to our library and loved the whole idea of being able to find a treasure trove of classic TV shows all in one place,” said CBS Consumer Products exec VP/GM Liz Kalodner.

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