As classic 1950s episodes of “Gunsmoke” make it into the Nielsen streaming rankers, Weigel Broadcasting is capitalizing on the recent western revival by launching WEST, a new over-the-air broadcast diginet devoted to series like “Gunsmoke,” “Bonanza,” “Maverick,” “Rawhide,” “The Virginian” and more.
WEST — which stands for “Western Entertainment Series Television” — will launch in fall, initially on Weigel-owned broadcast stations. More carriage deals will be announced at a later date.
“WEST will be dedicated 24/7 to showcasing the most beloved and iconic classic TV western series, with a massive library of titles that will make this the premier western network on television,” Neal Sabin, vice chairman of Weigel Broadcasting Co., said in a statement. “Featuring compelling story lines and narratives with universal adult appeal, the programs on WEST promise to transport viewers on an entertainment journey filled with excitement and adventure.”
This will rep the 10th channel created by Weigel, which also programs MeTV, MeTV Toons, Start TV, Heroes & Icons, Catchy Comedy, MeTV+, Story Television, Dabl and Movies!
“We’re thrilled to announce the launch of the WEST network, a move that has been driven by years of client feedback and growing demand,” said Jeff Nash, senior VP of network sales for Weigel. “This expansion represents another major milestone for us, and we’re proud to deliver exactly what our partners have been asking for.”
Other shows set to run on the channel include “Wanted: Dead or Alive,” “Have Gun, Will Travel,” “The High Chaparral,” “Wagon Train,” “The Big Valley” and “Wild Wild West.”
News comes as modern westerns like “Yellowstone” continue to perform with blockbuster numbers — and as mentioned, Paramount+’s and Peacock’s decision to stream “Gunsmoke” made it on to the Nielsen charts.
WEST will join other existing networks with a western focus including INSP and Grit.
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