Shaw and Alliance Atlantis Agree to Launch 7 New Digital Services

Business Wire, June 26, 2001

Business Editors

CALGARY, ALBERTA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 26, 2001

Shaw Communications Inc. ("Shaw")(TSE:SJR.B.) (CDNX:SJR.A) (NYSE:SJR) and Alliance Atlantis Communications Inc. ("Alliance Atlantis") announced today that they have reached an agreement to launch seven new digital programming services in September 2001.

The agreement covers the distribution of these new services on Shaw's cable systems and Star Choice's direct-to-home ("DTH") satellite service. The services include Health Network Canada, The Independent Film Channel Canada (pending CRTC approval), National Geographic Channel, BBC Canada, BBC Kids, Showcase Romance and Showcase Action.

"We are delighted to offer our customers such strong and well-recognized programming brands like National Geographic, BBC Kids, BBC Canada and Showcase," said Peter Bissonnette, President of Shaw Communications Inc. "These new services will be offered in a variety of packages as part of our digital launch this fall," he added.

"These popular brands will bring viewers great new programming that adds to their viewing choices," says Phyllis Yaffe, Chief Executive Officer of Alliance Atlantis' Broadcast Group. "We think they'll love having them in their homes."

Health Network Canada features compelling and entertaining programming about the wonders of medical science and the human body.

The Independent Film Channel Canada ("IFCC") is dedicated to the best of independent film from Canada and around the world. From film festivals to "indie" stars, IFCC will offer an exclusive window on the world of independent filmmaking.

National Geographic Channel has unsurpassed cinematography and access to some of the world's most remote destinations. The channel brings one of the world's best-known brands into the homes of Canadian viewers - 24 hours a day.

BBC Canada presents the very best of British television from the best-known broadcaster on the planet -- with a contemporary feast of edgy comedies, gritty dramas, and classic favourites.

BBC Kids features a high-quality and engaging lineup of children's programming -- from one of the world's leading broadcasters.

Showcase Romance features a star-studded lineup of heartthrobs and heroines in some of the best love stories of all time.

Showcase Action delivers an uncut and adrenaline-packed line-up of high-speed action movies and explosive series.

Shaw Communications Inc. is a diversified Canadian communications company whose core business is providing broadband cable television, Internet and satellite services to approximately 2.8 million customers. Shaw also has significant interests in telecommunications, Internet infrastructure and interactive television companies. Shaw is traded on the Toronto and New York stock exchanges (Symbol: TSE - SJR.B, NYSE - SJR).