Showtime Launches Web-enhanced Stargate SG-1 Powered by HyperTV

Business Wire, Feb 4, 2000

Business &Entertainment Editors

NEW YORK--(ENTERTAINMENT WIRE)--Feb. 4, 2000

SHOWTIME today announced the launch of synchronized online enhancements and chat for the Showtime Original Sci-Fi Series STARGATE SG-1 on its website SHO.com, using the patented HyperTV software solution created by ACTV's HyperTV Networks, Inc. On Friday, February 11, February 25 and March 10, SHOWTIME's viewers who also log on to SHO.com at the beginning of STARGATE SG-1 on SHOWTIME at 10:00 PM (ET/PT), will be able to interact with one another on the Internet at the same time they are watching SHOWTIME, creating an immersive enhanced television experience. STARGATE SG-1 is produced by MGM Television Entertainment for SHOWTIME.

Made possible by the free HyperTV plug-in, viewers will automatically receive online enhancements that are synchronized to appear on the user's computer monitor at key points during the televised episode and designed to draw fans more deeply into the world of STARGATE SG-1. The HyperTV experience will also include real-time community chat that enables online users to discuss what is happening in the episode with other STARGATE SG-1 fans as it is airing.

Viewers actively participate in the experience by assuming the role of a security officer at Stargate Command. Featured in this adventure will be plot-related games for players to gain points and advance in rank as well as supplemental program information such as character profiles, weapon reports and other engaging material. The enhanced content will also feature a chat window in which current online users will be able to discuss what is happening in the episode.

To experience Showtime's HyperTV programming, consumers need a standard television set with access to SHOWTIME and a computer with an Internet connection (28.8 or higher) located in the same room. Viewers can register and download the free HyperTV plug-in from SHO.com. To maximize the STARGATE SG-1 HyperTV experience, visitors to SHO.com can also download a free Flash plug-in from Macromedia.

ACTV, Inc. has pioneered TV/Web convergence programming with its patented HyperTV software solution. The company is also a leader in interactive digital television with its proprietary Individualized Television and Individualized Advertising software and programming capabilities. Visit ACTV's Web site at http://www.actv.com. For more information about HyperTV, visit http://www.hypertv.com.

Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly owned subsidiary of Viacom Inc., owns the premium television networks SHOWTIME, THE MOVIE CHANNEL and FLIX. SNI operates and manages the premium network SUNDANCE CHANNEL, which is owned by SNI, Robert Redford a nd Universal Studios. SNI also markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis.

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