• by Wayne Friedman , October 24, 2014

AMC Networks will spend $200 million to acquire a 49.9% equity stake in the cable channel BBC America from BBC Worldwide. BBC America, which is home to shows “Doctor Who” and “Orphan Black,” has some 80 million U.S. subscribers.

BBC Worldwide will keep a 50.1% stake in the channel -- with AMC taking operational control of the network, which includes affiliate and advertising sales.

AMC Networks will manage BBC America as a stand-alone channel. AMC Networks include AMC, IFC, WE tv and SundanceTV as well as more than 60 channels distributed worldwide.

In the third quarter of this year, BBC America averaged, in prime time, a Nielsen 277,000 total viewers -- tied for 54th place among all cable networks; and 126,000 18-49 viewers, tied for 47th place.

Josh Sapan, president/chief executive officer of AMC Networks, stated: "A combined AMC Networks-BBC America channel group creates a powerful collection of networks that are among the most critically acclaimed, with distinct dramas and other potent content that creates a deep connection with viewers.”

Other BBC Worldwide North America activities will continue as a wholly owned business within BBC Worldwide, which is the commercial arm of the British Broadcasting Corporation. The business focuses on program and format sales, as well as co-production relationships, scripted and unscripted production, consumer products, digital and live events.