Pride Vision TV

Canada's GLBT Television Station

While the United States gets ready to launch it's first gay and lesbian themed television networks, Canada has their own GLBT station since 2001. I had the opportunity to speak with Wendy Donnan, Director of Programming and Operations for Pride Vision TV. Here's what she had to say.

When did Pride TV first air? How has it been received?

We launched as the worlds first GLBT service on 7th September, 2001.

Why did Canada beat the US out on this idea?

Because Canada is a more tolerant, open minded country more accepting of differences in individuals and more respectful of human rights.

When/how will it be available in the US? Is it available in any other countries?

We are hoping to launch on major systems before LOGO launches in February. Not yet avalable in other countries.

What types of programming do you offer?

Everything- movies, documentaries, lifestyle, live shows, call in programs, news and current affairs and late night Erotica.

Do you have any sit-coms?

Yes. Gimme, Gimme, Gimme is a British Sitcom, as well as Girls on Top with Dawn French, Jennifer Saunders.

What programs (or percentage of programs) are unique to Pride TV?

We have about 15% of our programming unique to us. We have our own shows: Read Out, Shout, Locker Room, Bump (travel show), Urban Fitness TV, Jawbreaker to name a few. Also starting up a new call in show this fall called Straight Talk.

What is your most popular programming?

The Movies and the late night erotica.

What do you have to offer that's unique from the other GLBT networks that are popping up in the US?

Late night Erotica definitely a difference. We also do not cut programs, and because we are a digital stand alone service we can air programs at any time of the day. For exa,mple, in the USA you can watch IN THE LIFE only late night on PBS stations, which is ridiculous as this is a news program. We air it at 10 a.m. Sunday, afternoons, and weekends.

What is the future of Pride TV?

We hope to launch a separate channel with just Erotica sometime in the future. We are also fighting to increase our subscribers by having our channel included in a package. We were bought this year by William Craig, who is the new owner.

How can people sign up for Pride TV or get more information?

The can contact their local cable company or satellite provider or call 1-877-PRIDE TV and we can help them to get signed up.