Los Angeles — With the use of smartphones and tablet computers growing exponentially, former Disney Studios Vice President of New Media Technology, Gary Kleinman, has announced the launch of FirstRun.tv — a new television network designed to provide new and original programming for online and on-the-go viewers. Kleinman, who was with Disney for 23 years, announced that FirstRun.tv will offer ten channels covering popular genres including comedy, sports, action, drama, reality, kids & family, talk, instructional, animation, and more.
“Everywhere you look, people are holding the equivalent of a little wireless television set in their hands,” said Kleinman, making reference to iPhones, Droids, other smartphones and tablets. “With properly built apps, optimized streaming technology, and improving infrastructure, a good viewing experience is now possible on most newer devices virtually anywhere – and it keeps getting better as next-generation smartphones tablet are introduced,” he added.
FirstRun.tv will offer free viewing of original programs produced specifically for mobile and online audiences. The source of content will primarily be independent producers and creative talent that connect and collaborate via FirstRun.tv’s new sister site, tvPRODigies.com. tvPRODigies is a free networking site with a structure similar to Facebook, but focused specifically on the independent production community. Kleinman says, “The idea is to encourage people with great ideas and unsold scripts to use the online resources to bring their own project to life.” FirstRun.tv will also produce original series via its production arms, StoryArc New Media and HybridSports.tv. “FirstRun.tv is not another clip upload site. It will operate with a weekly programming schedule of strategically selected original shows and series,” said Kleinman.
