Azteca México on DIRECTV Más.

Azteca Networks and DIRECTV, Inc. announced the launch of Azteca México, a brand new 24-hour satellite-only channel to be aired through DIRECTV Más in the United States. Azteca México will offer exclusive programming from TV Azteca’s three Mexican networks: Channel 7, 13 and Proyecto 40 and will differ from programming viewers receive on broadcast network Azteca América. Azteca México will air on Channel 442 nationwide and be identified in programming guides as AZM 442, starting Wednesday, June 11, 2008.

Azteca México will offer viewers programs in the U.S. many of which will be shown at the same time as they air in Mexico on TV Azteca. These shows include hit Mexican novelas Todo por Amor and Vivir Por Ti, news from TV Azteca’s own Hechos and the hottest reality and entertainment shows like Poker de Reinas, a racy, fun morning show featuring four beautiful Mexican hostesses and Venga la Alegria, TV Azteca’s leading morning show.

Azteca México will complement our successful broadcast network and together, the two channels will form Azteca Networks, the most sought-after Mexican programming package in the United States

“Azteca México will complement our successful broadcast network and together, the two channels will form Azteca Networks, the most sought-after Mexican programming package in the United States,” assured Azteca Networks CEO, Adrian Steckel. “Azteca México is aimed at a specific segment of the market – the viewer who craves that daily Mexican connection, with newscasts, novelas and entertainment programs offered the same day they air in Mexico.”

“Now for the first time ever, friends and family in Mexico and the U.S. can watch top-rated Mexican programming at the same time. No other Spanish-language content provider can offer this experience,” said John de Armas, vice president, WORLDDIRECT, DIRECTV, Inc. “The addition of Azteca México to DIRECTV’s robust Spanish and English programming packages gives the U.S. Latino community an exclusive television experience in the comfort of their own home.”

To celebrate the new network’s launch, Azteca América and DIRECTV, Inc. will co-host a star-studded, private VIP reception on Thursday, June 12, 2008 in Hollywood, CA. Stars will arrive on the red carpet and enjoy an evening of cocktails and entertainment. Celebrities scheduled to attend include: Pati Chapoy (Ventaneando América), Renán Almendárez Coello “El Cucuy” (Azte Pa’ Cá), Javier Alatorre (Hechos), Yahir (La Academia), Claudia Álvarez (Bellezas Indomables), Diego Olivera (Vivir Por Ti), Omar Fierro (Vivir Por Ti), Fernando del Solar (Venga la Alegría), Mónica Castañeda (Famosos en Jaque), Eduardo Xol (ABC’s Extreme Makeover: Home Edition) , Emiliano Diez (formerly with The George Lopez Show). There will be red carpet fashion commentary by Patti López (93.9 FM) and more! For press credentials please see contacts above.

The distribution agreement is a major win for Azteca Networks, following the March 2008 agreement to nationally distribute Azteca América’s Pacific feed on DIRECTV Channel 441. Azteca México programming will be available nationwide and accessible to DIRECTV Más customers at no additional charge.