Broadcasting News Vertical Markets

Eutelsat and SoFast to launch Baywatch TV in Arabic across MENA

Under the agreement, SoFast will manage the playout and distribution for the channel, while Eutelsat will provide capacity on the Eutelsat 7 West A satellite.
Photo credit: Eutelsat/GETTY IMAGES

Eutelsat has joined forces with SoFast, the global leader in the creation, playout, and monetisation of FAST and linear channels, to distribute Baywatch TV subtitled in Arabic to audiences across the Middle East and North Africa. Based on the cult classic Baywatch series, the channel will be broadcast from the region’s leading 7/8° West video neighbourhood.

Under the partnership, SoFast will handle playout and distribution, while Eutelsat will provide capacity on its Eutelsat 7 West A satellite. Positioned at 7/8° West, the orbital slot reaches more than 66m television homes across MENA, carrying around 950 channels and offering the largest exclusive reach in the region.

Yanai Arfi, Chief Executive Officer, SoFast, said: “This launch represents a strategic milestone for Baywatch TV, illustrating SoFast’s ability to support its partners in multi-platform distribution, whether through FAST or premium channels, to OTT platforms, Telco operators, and even satellite.”

Aymeric Genty, President of Eutelsat’s Video Business Unit, added: “We are delighted to be working with SoFast, to bring this iconic channel to viewers across MENA. The Eutelsat-Nilesat 7/8° West orbital position is MENA’s leading video neighbourhood. Thanks to the extensive footprint of satellite, we are able to increase Baywatch TV’s reach to 95% of homes across the region.”