Luken, Classic Media To Debut New Network

Luken Communications, owner of Retro TV Network (RTV) and TUFF TV, has teamed up with Classic Media to create a new network, PBJ.

PBJ will offer iconic characters and shows from the 1950s, ’60s, ’70s and ’80s 24 hours a day. PBJ is set to launch nationwide this summer with well-known titles from Classic Media’s portfolio including The Archies, Mr. Magoo, The Lone Ranger, Gumby, Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids and more. Luken will make PBJ available to broadcasters, cable and satellite.

“We’re thrilled to work with Classic Media to bring back the very enduring and extremely popular animated and live action shows from the past five decades, just like it was yesterday,” said RTV Network‟s Neal Ardman. Doug Schwalbe, Classic Media EVP, production and program sales, added: “We’re all just as excited about watching PBJ today as we were watching these shows growing up. Now, our favorite characters and episodes will be available anytime.”

The RTV network first went on the air in July 2005 in Little Rock, Ark. RTV currently reaches over 77 million homes and features classic live action television programming from the 1950s through the 1980s such as The A-Team, Dragnet, McHale’s Navy and The Rockford Files. TUFF TV launched in June 2009 and offers original programming targeted at men and their specific interests, hobbies and pursuits.