Aspire (TV network)

For the Australian television network, see Aspire TV.
Aspire
Launched June 27, 2012
Owned by Magic Johnson Enterprises
Picture format 480i (SDTV)
1080i (HDTV)
Slogan Our Past. Our Now. Our Next. That's Aspire.
Country United States
Headquarters Atlanta, Georgia
Website www.aspire.tv
Availability
Cable
Available on Comcast and Time Warner Cable systems Check your local listings

Aspire (stylized as ASPiRE) is a cable television network targeting African American audiences launched by Magic Johnson on June 27, 2012.

History

As part of its arrangement to acquire a minority interest in NBCUniversal, Comcast Corporation committed to carry several minority-owned channels.[1] The arrangement followed pressure led by Maxine Waters in congressional hearings.[2] In April 2011, Comcast solicited proposals for minority owned networks.[3] In February 2012, Comcast announced distribution arrangements for four networks, including ASPiRE.[4] The four announced networks and six forthcoming stations are being chosen from among an excess of 100 proposals to begin airing by 2020.[5]

Business plan

The focus of the network will be "positive, uplifting images of African Americans", according to Johnson. The station intends to deliver films, music and comedy, with a combination of acquired projects and original programming. The programming will include performing arts and shows about faith.[2] The show is intended to provide a forum for African American producers and performers.[6] Johnson is partnering with the Gospel Music Channel.[5] Johnson said the following about the network: "Aspire will be a network that encourages and challenges African-Americans to reach for their dreams," adding that it "will celebrate our heritage, our groundbreaking achievements and the fearless talent that has shaped American culture."[5]

Broadcast

The network is currently available on the digital basic service in some of Comcast's systems.[5] ASPiRE launched on June 27, 2012.[6] The network is also available on Time Warner Cable.[7]

List of programs broadcast

Aspire also holds the broadcast rights to a selection of past and present college football games involving historically black colleges and universities.

Notes