Hallmark becomes Universal in Africa

The Hallmark channel is being rebranded Universal Channel across Africa. The NBC Universal-backed channel, which is operated by the company’s Universal Networks International division, is carried on the Multichoice pay-TV platform throughout the region.

The name change and a new on-air look and feel will be implemented from March 24. NBCU claims Hallmark is the most popular international channel in Africa and South Africa with 2.7 million subscribers combined. It said there would be more first-run series on the Universal Channel including new episodes of the Law & Order franchise and drama series Monk.