Hearst acquires Jack Hanna library
December 19, 2023
Hearst Media Production Group (HMPG), a producer and distributor of educational and informational content, has acquired the library of TV series hosted by legendary wildlife ambassador Jack Hanna from Into The Wild.
HMPG has been the long-time distributor of the Hanna franchise. In addition to its current ownership of Jack Hanna’s Animal Adventures, HMPG has acquired nearly 400 episodes of the series Jack Hanna’s Wild Countdown and Jack Hanna’s Into the Wild for global distribution. Terms of the transaction were not announced.
Hanna’s enthusiasm and hands-on approach to wildlife conservation have won him widespread acclaim as a conservationist, television personality, author and Director Emeritus of the famed Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in Ohio. For more than 50 years, Hanna built a wildlife programming franchise that has been viewed in more than 60 countries. He has been nominated for 15 Emmy awards, winning five for his work on Into the Wild. Hanna has also authored several books, won many awards, and received multiple honorary doctorates.
“We’re proud to deepen our decades-long partnership with the Hanna family and be entrusted to continue sharing this compelling, legacy wildlife programming worldwide,” commented Frank Biancuzzo, HMPG president.
“HMPG is committed to the important work Jack started,” added Suzi Hanna, wife of Jack Hanna. “Their extensive knowledge of producing and distributing engaging wildlife programming ensures Jack’s lifelong commitment to wildlife education and conservation will reach fans of all ages for years to come.”
In 2021, HMPG launched The Jack Hanna Channel, a FAST channel showcasing hundreds of episodes of Hanna’s adventures in the wild. The channel is currently distributed across leading US platforms that include Samsung TV Plus, The Roku Channel, Vizio WatchFree+, Freevee and Tubi. The channel is also available in Canada and India with ongoing discussions to expand globally into new territories.
“Jack’s endearing personality and authentic love of conservation have created one of the most popular franchises in wildlife programming,” said Andrew Tew, HMPG senior vice president, global licensing and distribution. “Adding the full library of his iconic work enables us to serve his fans in new ways.”