Mark Ringwald VP, Programming AmericanLife TV Network USA

What are your acquisition strategies?

In creating a destination channel for America 's 82 million baby boomers, we have embraced a two-pronged strategy of providing both entertainment and lifestyle programming. For the entertainment component, we look for the best classic programming that the boomers grew up watching. These are shows mainly from the '60s and '70s, although we also air more contemporary programs that look back at the '60s, such as " China Beach." They have to be recognizable dramas and comedies that will still hold up today. Boomers in fact, say that these are better shows than the U.S. networks currently offer, because they are comfortable watching them with their kids (or their own parents) in the room. In lifestyle programming, we look for series that specifically and uniquely targets boomers. They should be high-quality series that entertain, yet retain an informational component.  The title must catch the viewer's imagination and be able to create buzz. The programming should feature real boomers and their families, use drama in telling the stories of people attempting to overcome some problem or difficulty, and provide take-away information that viewers can find useful in their own lives. Also, they should treat boomers as active, vibrant and young at heart. Boomers are not old or "senior". They are looking forward, but not to "The End".

China Beach
Warner Bros. International Television

Can you name some successful titles that you acquired this year?

The lifestyle series "Til Debt Do U$ Part" was acquired from Picture Box Distribution and Frantic Films in Canada. Money problems are the number one reason for divorce and each episode of this series, hosted by a renowned financial expert, follows a different couple in the midst of a financial and matrimonial crisis. Our expert offers tough-love solutions to those willing to face their financial troubles head on. The classic '60s war drama "Combat!" was renewed from CBS Paramount. This is almost a signature series for us. Only part action, it is really a drama series on the human condition. It features great writing, acting and directing, and is a real viewer favorite.

What programs are you looking for?

In 2007, we will be looking to license additional classic series for our primetime lineup, and perhaps a movie package or two of films that represent the icons or touchstones of the boomer generation. We will also be looking to license a few lifestyle series, but they need to be in a genre that we haven't covered yet, and be very targeted and specific to boomers. Generic lifestyle programs (i.e. "It's a travel show! Older people like to travel!") need not apply.

What programs will be popular during NATPE 2007?