Players Network Coming To Cable

Cable television has been a distinct part of the rebirth of interest in the game of poker. From the Travel Channel's broadcasts of the World Poker Tour to ESPN's airings of the World Series of Poker and even the multitude of other professional tournaments and celebrity games, cable television has been the televised media of choice to bring the game to the fans. Now there is a distinct network that is geared for the gaming lifestyle coming to cable as well.

It was announced this week that the Players Network, after an excellent broadcast of the festivities at this year's World Series, has entered into a multi year contract with Comcast. Comcast is one of the major players in cable television communications, bringing not only cable television but other entertainment and communications services to its customers. The contract was signed after a yearlong test of the programming of the Players Network in twenty three Comcast markets around the United States.

The Players Network will not be added to the general cable package, however. It will be a part of Comcast's "Video On Demand" service, which will allow its subscribers to purchase all or parts of the Players Network offerings. There will be some great offerings from the Players Network to choose from. The programming will consist of new talk shows, poker and other gaming seminars and gaming lifestyle programming. Some of the big names from the poker world that will be featured on the Players Network on Comcast include actor James Caan ("Las Vegas" and a Players Network spokesman), Jennifer Tilly, Gabe Kaplan, Doyle Brunson, Phil Laak, Jennifer Harman, Chris Moneymaker, Daniel Negreanu, Johnny Chan, Cyndy Violette and Chris Ferguson. The network is set to begin airing on "Video On Demand" on Comcast starting on November 8th.

Both sides seem to be very pleased with the new arrangement between them. "This agreement represents a significant milestone in our company's growth as we expand delivery of our content to multiple platforms. We are pleased to partner with Comcast to make our programming available to Comcast digital cable customers across the country," said Mark Bradley, the founder and president of the Players Network. Matt Strauss, the vice president of Comcast's Content Development team, echoed those sentiments. "The Players Network has positioned itself as a leader in gaming entertainment through established marketing relationships within the gaming industry and the creation of original programming that captures the essence of the gaming lifestyle. We are pleased to offer this added-value television programming exclusively to our On Demand subscribers."

Although it isn't on the general package for Comcast subscribers, this is a great step for the game of poker and the gaming industry overall. The Players Network is a solid organization, having provided their content through the broadband Internet medium and through casino in room broadcasts for the past ten years. Perhaps it is a test of the Players Network, putting them through Comcast's "Video On Demand" service before turning it out onto the general cable package. All in all, it is a great achievement for the Players Network, Comcast, poker and casino gaming in general!

Ed note: Party Poker have multiple tables available at every limit, 24 hours a day.