Star Crime Channel: History, Programming, Ownership & Broadcast Info

Introduction

The Star Crime Channel is a leading European TV network dedicated to crime dramas, investigative thrillers, and legal series. As a rebrand of the original Fox Crime network, this Disney-owned channel continues to captivate viewers with its thrilling lineup of programming, spanning courtroom suspense, forensic science, and high-stakes criminal storytelling.

From Fox Crime to Star: A Brand Transformation

Originally part of 21st Century Fox’s global network, the Fox Crime brand began its European journey in the mid-2000s. After The Walt Disney Company acquired 21st Century Fox in 2019, it began phasing out the Fox brand across its media properties. This led to a strategic rebranding campaign—Fox Crime became Star Crime in regions like the Balkans and Bulgaria in October 2023, followed by Portugal in early 2024.

The new identity reflects both continuity and innovation: the programming style that viewers loved remains, but the presentation and branding have evolved to match Disney’s broader television strategy.

(Star Crime, Star Crime)

Programming That Grabs Your Attention

Star Crime’s programming includes a mix of television series, sitcoms, and movies related to crime, horror, and investigation. Notable series aired on the channel include: (Star Crime)

  • 24
  • Boston Legal
  • Cops
  • CSI: Crime Scene Investigation
  • CSI: Miami
  • CSI: NY
  • Law & Order
  • Law & Order: Criminal Intent
  • Law & Order: Special Victims Unit
  • The Sopranos
  • Veronica Mars (Star Crime)

The channel’s content strategy focuses on delivering compelling narratives that delve into criminal investigations, legal proceedings, and psychological thrillers, catering to audiences interested in crime and mystery genres.

Ownership and Management

Star Crime is operated by the Disney Entertainment division of The Walt Disney Company. The rebranding from Fox Crime to Star Crime aligns with Disney’s strategy to consolidate its television assets under the Star brand, enhancing brand recognition and streamlining content offerings across different regions. (Star Crime)

Global Reach and Distribution

Star Crime broadcasts in multiple regions, including the Balkans, Bulgaria, and Portugal. In Portugal, the channel was launched on September 26, 2007, and is available through various service providers such as TV Cabo Portugal, TVTEL, AR Telecom, Cabovisão, MEO, and SmartTV (Optimus Clix). (Star Crime, Star Crime)

In the Balkans and Bulgaria, Star Crime is accessible via major cable and satellite providers, ensuring a broad audience reach. The channel’s availability across different platforms underscores its commitment to delivering quality crime-related content to diverse viewerships.

Conclusion

Star Crime has established itself as a prominent channel specializing in crime, horror, and investigation-themed programming. Through strategic rebranding and content curation, it continues to captivate audiences across various regions. As part of Disney’s portfolio, Star Crime is poised to expand its reach and influence in the global television landscape. (Star Crime)

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