Cinedigm Sept. 26 announced the acquisition of Canadian family-friendly drama “Heartland.” The 10-season series will make its Dove Channel debut in October. Rights to the show were acquired from international distributor Kew Media Distribution.
Dove Channel is one of Cinedigm’s nine over-the-top video channels. In addition to Dove, the company operates martial arts network Combat Go; factual network Docurama; fandom lifestyle network CONtv; eSports lifestyle network Wham; Asian music and pop culture network Hallypop; a Chinese entertainment channel; and the family-focused Dove Kids.
Based on Lauren Brooke’s book series of the same name, “Heartland” follows Amy Fleming and her estranged sister Lou, who are suddenly reunited when their mother’s sudden death forces Lou to leave behind her relationship and career in New York City for the rigors of Heartland Ranch. Together, with their grandfather, Jack Bartlett, and loyal ranch hand Ty Borden, Amy and Lou work to adapt to their new circumstances and rebuild their relationship while dealing with the trials and tribulations of life on the ranch.
The series stars Amber Marshall, Michelle Morgan, Graham Wardle, and Shaun Johnston, and features notable guest appearances by “Arrow” star Stephen Amell and Katharine Isabelle (“Hannibal”), as well as Beau Mirchoff (“Awkward”), Keegan Connor Tracy (“Once Upon A Time”), Benjamin Hollingsworth (“Code Black”), and Kari Matchett (“Covert Affairs”), among others. The series is the longest-running 60-minute scripted drama in Canadian television history.
“For more than a decade, ‘Heartland’ has stood as one of Canada’s most popular television series of all time — resonating with viewers for its powerful storylines and realistic characters,” Erick Opeka, EVP of digital networks at Cinedigm, said in a statement.
Dove Channel was launched in 2015 catering to family-friendly content, offering viewers safe programming options and full access to a library of values-based movies, children’s programs, documentaries, and series in the streaming marketplace. Content featured on the Dove Channel is approved by The Dove Foundation and its Faith & Family Dove Seals of Approval.