KC Global Media’s New Travel Series “AXN Ultimate Challenge: Sarawak” Now Airing

An original, destination-led entertainment initiative is now airing among audiences worldwide. KC Global Media Asia’s new adventure reality competition series “AXN Ultimate Challenge: Sarawak,”  is a collaboration between leading Asian entertainment brand AXN Asia and the Sarawak Tourism Board.

“AXN Ultimate Challenge: Sarawak” is a fast-paced four-episode series that blends adrenaline-fueled challenges, cultural discovery and social storytelling in each 15-minute episode. Two content creator teams will have a once-in-a-lifetime experience as they compete in a series of high-energy competitions and mental challenges inspired by Sarawak’s lush landscapes and rich culture. The contestants will rely on skill, endurance and teamwork as they immerse themselves in local communities, experience unique cultural encounters and uncover hidden gems rarely seen on screen.

 

Themes explored in the series include community, discovery, eco-tourism and tradition, offering a rare look at Sarawak, Malaysia, one of Southeast Asia’s most captivating and naturally beautiful destinations.

 

The show is produced by KCGM Studios and hosted by Mark O’Dea. The content creator teams are Khenji Saito & Adam Manuel and Estelle Fly & Saffron Sharpe. Episodes will feature local notables Chef Achang Libat, Louis Samai, Luke Kenny Doo and Blowpipe Masters Cikgu Nyoging and Alfa. The Sheraton Kuching Hotel is the official hotel partner.

 

The competitors will also be shooting their own content, offering an authentic look at the adventure from their individual perspectives. Each episode will feature a challenge unique to Sarawak, i.e., foraging for Sago worms (a regional delicacy & protein source), as well as a prize and a penalty. Additionally, the participating local heroes add an important layer of authenticity, as they are credible voices that will highlight and validate the experiences, challenges, and stories featured in the series.

 

“AXN Ultimate Challenge: Sarawak” now airs on the AXN Asia YouTube channel  and the AXN Taiwan YouTube channel. It is also airing on AXN East Asia, AXN Singapore and AXN China from August 4 every Tuesday at 9:30pm GMT+8 for four weeks and will repeat every Thursday at 8:35pm and every Sunday at 8:45pm.

 

“KC Global Media Asia is thrilled to partner with AXN Asia and the Sarawak Tourism Board on this unique original project,” said George Chien, KC Global Media's Co-Founder, President & Chief Executive Officer. “Our forward-thinking team has created an immersive adventure with ‘AXN Ultimate Challenge: Sarawak’ that puts the culture, people and spirit of adventure at the heart of the story. We look forward to audiences across the world becoming inspired to experience Sarawak for themselves. And we look forward to seeing where the KC Global Media / AXN Ultimate Challenge can explore next.”

 

“Sarawak is a destination where adventure, culture and nature come together through authentic experiences deeply connected to our landscapes, communities and way of life,” shared Dr. Sharzede Datu Haji Salleh Askor, the Chief Executive Officer of the Sarawak Tourism Board. “‘AXN Ultimate Challenge: Sarawak’ offers viewers an exciting way to discover this diversity – from challenges inspired by our natural environment to cultural encounters and local stories that make every journey here unique. We hope the series will inspire audiences across the region to discover Sarawak, Malaysia for themselves.”

 

The partnership between KC Global Media Asia, AXN Asia and the Sarawak Tourism Board highlights the growing trend of screen tourism, where new audiences can discover and engage with destinations through original entertainment content.

 

In addition, this collaboration further showcases KC Global Media Asia’s presence in the world of travel & entertainment and their commitment to building bridges between regional creators and audiences everywhere. The company remains dedicated to championing creativity, widening access to quality entertainment and contributing to a more vibrant global content landscape.

For more information about AXN Ultimate Challenge: Sarawak, visit www.axn-asia.com. Follow AXN Asia on YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook at @axnasia, and AXN Taiwan at @axntw.

AXN Welcomes Judges David Foster, Anggun and Jay Park to a New Season of Asia’s Got Talent

Sony Pictures Television (SPT) Networks, Asia announced today that celebrity judges David Foster, Anggun and Jay Park will return to the judges’ table for a sizzling third season of the record-breaking Asia’s Got Talent on its flagship channel, AXN. The dynamic trio have arrived in Singapore to start filming the series’ first five episodes.

“David, Anggun and Jay are a fantastic team and we’re delighted to welcome them back for season 3. Each judge brings a very different vibe to the show as they draw on their respective talents and vast industry experience to critique the acts,” said Virginia Lim, SVP and General Manager, SPT Networks, Asia. “The new season will be our most surprising yet, with a bigger variety of acts and incredible stories of dreams and determination.”

The Asia’s Got Talent casting team concluded its pan-regional open audition tour in July and has shortlisted over 150 colorful acts from 17 countries in Asia. The three judges will take the hot seats to help discover Asia’s next superstar.

Commenting on his return, David Foster, the 16-time Grammy award-winning producer said, “Asia remains my favorite part of the world for discovering new talent. The cultural diversity is truly breathtaking and I love seeing such a rich tapestry of acts making the stage their own. Asia’s Got Talent season three is going to be awesome. Every act knows what Anggun, Jay and I expect to see so I know the level of talent will be sky high this season.”

International recording star and World Music Award winner, Anggun, added, “As an Indonesia-born performer, I know what it takes to pursue a career in the performing arts. It’s an unwavering belief in your ability to succeed and a drive that gets you up every day to take the next step towards your dream. During the auditions, my heart is on stage with every single act, and I can’t wait to be inspired yet again by season three’s new generation of budding stars.”

Jay Park, the award-winning, multi-platinum recording artist and entrepreneur said, “I was so inspired and had so much fun last year that I wanted to come back and do it again alongside the great David Foster and lovely Anggun.”

Billed as the biggest talent competition in the world, Asia’s Got Talent features a variety of acts of any age and with any dream competing for the winning crown and a grand prize of USD100,000. Over 15 countries were represented in season two and were beamed into 46 million AXN households in 19 countries across the region. On social, Asia’s Got Talent content garnered over 310 million collective video views on Facebook and YouTube, making the show the region’s hottest entertainment series of the year.

Asia’s Got Talent is supported by regional sponsors Princess Cruises, the official cruise line of Asia’s Got Talent and Great Eastern, the market leader and a well-established trusted brand in Malaysia and Singapore.

The Got Talent franchise was created by Simon Cowell’s Syco Entertainment and is co-produced and owned by Syco Entertainment and FremantleMedia. It is entered in the Guinness World Records as the Most Successful Reality Television Format in history with 70 local versions produced across Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle-East, Africa and the Americas. Around the world, the Got Talent format airs in a total of 186 countries.

AXN is a leader of regionally produced original content in Asia, with notable ratings successes including two record-breaking seasons of Asia’s Got Talent, five seasons of the award-winning The Amazing Race Asia; The Elements: Cosentino; Adventure Your Way; Cash Cab Asia and Cash Cab Philippines; The Apprentice Asia; Cyril: Rio Magic; Cyril’s Family Vacation: Hawaii Edition; and Cyril: Simply Magic.

Launched first in Asia in 1997, AXN is a global channel brand with a presence in Latin America, Africa and Europe. In Asia, the channel is enjoyed in 126 million households across 20 territories and is available in both SD and HD.

AXN Asia is wholly owned by Sony Pictures Entertainment and managed by Sony Pictures Television Networks, Asia, which also operates leading channels including Animax, Sony Channel, ONE and GEM.

@AsiasGotTalent / #AXNAsia / #AsiasGotTalent / #AsiasGotTalentAudition
www.AXN-Asia.com/AsiasGotTalent

About Sony Pictures Television Networks

Sony Pictures Television Networks operates branded entertainment channels reaching nearly two billion households around the world. Based in Culver City, Amsterdam, Budapest, London, Madrid, Miami, Milan, Moscow, Mumbai, Munich, Singapore and Tokyo, Sony’s linear and digital networks offer high quality film and television content from Sony Pictures and third-parties, as well as original content commissioned globally and locally. Sony Pictures Television Networks is a division of Sony Pictures Television Inc., a Sony Pictures Entertainment company.

*This is Press Release

Asia’s Got Talent Auditions Attract Philippines’ Top Acts

Hundreds of talented performers – from a cultural troupe of 22 to an umbrella-wielding dancing grandpa -brought their A-Game to the open auditions in Manila last Saturday for a chance to secure their shot at international fame on the third instalment of the record-breaking series.

“The Philippines has a proven track record of success on Asia’s Got Talent with El Gamma Penumbra winning the first season and DMX Comvalenoz as runner up in season 2.  We expected the best from the Philippines and the acts certainly exceeded our expectations at the open auditions with their high level of passion, talent and enthusiasm,” said Derek Wong, Vice President, Production, Sony Pictures Television Networks, Asia. “Each act has a compelling story that’s waiting to be told and we are looking forward to discovering the next Pinoy star this season.”

For those who have missed their opportunity to showcase their talent, the regional Asia’s Got Talent audition tour will be making stops in Jakarta and Kuala Lumpur this coming weekend. Online auditions are still ongoing at www.AXN-Asia.com/AsiasGotTalent until 9 July, 2018.

Asia’s Got Talent is supported by regional sponsor Princess Cruises, the official cruise line of Asia’s Got Talent.
The Got Talent franchise was created by Simon Cowell’s Syco Entertainment and is co-produced and owned by Syco Entertainment and FremantleMedia. It is entered in the Guinness World Records as the Most Successful Reality Television Format in history with 70 local versions produced across Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle-East, Africa and the Americas. Around the world, the Got Talent format airs in a total of 186 countries.

AXN is Asia’s leading general entertainment channel, featuring exclusive top-rated drama series, blockbuster features, reality programs and groundbreaking original productions. The channel appeals to a discerning audience seeking content that is smart, intriguing and unexpected, all delivered close to US telecasts. From The Blacklist and MacGyver to Asia’s Got Talent and The Amazing Race Asia, AXN is defined not by a genre, but by an attitude that truly redefines action.
Launched first in Asia in 1997, AXN is a global channel brand with a presence in Latin America, Africa and Europe. In Asia, the channel is enjoyed in 126 million households across 20 territories and is available in both SD and HD.
AXN Asia is wholly owned by Sony Pictures Entertainment and managed by Sony Pictures Television Networks, Asia, which also operates leading channels including Animax, Sony Channel, ONE and GEM.

@AsiasGotTalent / #AXNAsia / #AsiasGotTalent / #AsiasGotTalentAudition
www.AXN-Asia.com/AsiasGotTalent

About Sony Pictures Television Networks

Sony Pictures Television Networks operates branded entertainment channels reaching nearly two billion households around the world. Based in Culver City, Amsterdam, Budapest, London, Madrid, Miami, Milan, Moscow, Mumbai, Munich, Singapore and Tokyo, Sony’s linear and digital networks offer high quality film and television content from Sony Pictures and third-parties, as well as original content commissioned globally and locally. Sony Pictures Television Networks is a division of Sony Pictures Television Inc., a Sony Pictures Entertainment company.

*This is Press Release

AXN Announces Asia’s Got Talent S3 Open Auditions in Manila @ Quezon Memorial Circle, Quezon City Experience Museum (QCX) - Saturday, June 30, 2018

AXN has announced that the Philippines open auditions for the new season of top-rated series Asia’s Got Talent will be held at Quezon Memorial Circle, Quezon City Experience Museum (QCX)
Saturday, June 30, 2018.

The one-day event is part of AXN’s regional Asia’s Got Talent audition tour which also includes stops in Bangkok, Singapore, Ho Chi Minh City, Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta.

Doors will open from 10am at Quezon Memorial Circle, Quezon City Experience Museum (QCX) with hundreds of aspiring performers expected to attend for their shot at international fame and a life-changing grand prize of USD100,000.

“The Philippines has constantly delivered extraordinary acts on Asia’s Got Talent that have gone on to the final stages of the competition. Last season we had three Filipino acts in the grand finals with DMX Comvalenoz and Neil Rey Gracia Llanes making it to top three. In season one, El Gamma Penumbra won the series with their captivating shadow-play performance,” said Derek Wong, Vice President, Production, Sony Pictures Television, Networks, Asia. “We’re looking forward to discovering a whole new generation of Filipino stars in the next season of Asia’s Got Talent.”

Due to the expected turn-out and exceptionally high demand on audition day, performers are encouraged to pre-apply online to expedite the registration process on the day (www.AXNAsia.com/AsiasGotTalent).
Quezon City Experience Museum (QCX) is located at Elliptical Road, Quezon City, Philippines 1100.
Information including the location map, frequently asked questions (FAQs) and the terms and conditions of participation are available at www.AXN-Asia.com/AsiasGotTalent.
Asia’s Got Talent is supported by regional sponsor Princess Cruises, the official cruise line of Asia’s Got Talent.
The Got Talent franchise was created by Simon Cowell’s Syco Entertainment and is coproduced and owned by Syco Entertainment and FremantleMedia. It is entered in the Guinness World Records as the Most Successful Reality Television Format in history with 70 local versions produced across Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle-East, Africa and the Americas. Around the world, the Got Talent format airs in a total of 186 countries.
AXN is Asia’s leading general entertainment channel, featuring exclusive top-rated drama series, blockbuster features, reality programs and groundbreaking original productions. The channel appeals to a discerning audience seeking content that is smart, intriguing and unexpected, all delivered close to US telecasts. From The Blacklist and MacGyver to Asia’s Got Talent and The Amazing Race Asia, AXN is defined not by a genre, but by an attitude that truly redefines action.
Launched first in Asia in 1997, AXN is a global channel brand with a presence in Latin America, Africa and Europe. In Asia, the channel is enjoyed in 126 million households across 20 territories and is available in both SD and HD.
AXN Asia is wholly owned by Sony Pictures Entertainment and managed by Sony Pictures Television Networks, Asia, which also operates leading channels including Animax, Sony Channel, ONE and GEM.
@AsiasGotTalent / #AXNAsia / #AsiasGotTalent / #AsiasGotTalentAudition  www.AXN-
Asia.com/AsiasGotTalent

About Sony Pictures Television Networks
Sony Pictures Television Networks operates branded entertainment channels reaching nearly two billion households around the world. Based in Culver City, Amsterdam, Budapest, London, Madrid, Miami, Milan, Moscow, Mumbai, Munich, Singapore and Tokyo, Sony’s linear and digital networks offer high quality film and television content from Sony Pictures and third-parties, as well as original content commissioned globally and locally. Sony Pictures Television Networks is a division of Sony Pictures Television Inc., a Sony Pictures Entertainment company.

*This is Press Release

Britain’s Got Talent Crowns its First Comedian in 12 Seasons

Winner ‘Lost Voice Guy’ makes Britain’s Got Talent history

After an amazing night of performances by a diverse group of acts with unbelievable talent, Lost Voice Guy was crowned the winner of 2018 Britain’s Got Talent!

Lost Voice Guy, also known as Lee Ridley, is the first comedian to ever win Britain’s Got Talent in 12 seasons. The 37-year-old, who has cerebral palsy, uses a voice

synthesizer for his acts - but that didn’t stop him from winning £250,000 in prize money and the opportunity to perform at the Royal Variety Performance.

“I have been blown away by the support of the judges and the general public,” said Lost Voice Guy via his synthesizer. “I’m very excited to perform in front of the Queen. I’ve loved her since she sang Bohemian Rhapsody.”

Lost Voice Guy’s self-deprecating humor won the public over in the grand finale with fellow musician comedian Robert White in second place and singer Donchez Dacres in third place.

“You so deserve this. I’m so happy,” Simon Cowell said.

Relive Lost Voice Guy’s winning moment on Britain’s Got Talent by catching the encore this Sunday, 10 June at 8.05pm on AXN.

AXN is available on Cablelink Channel 38, Cignal Channel 121, Destiny Cable Channel 49, G Sat Channel 51, and SKYCable Channel 49. AXN HD is available on SKYCable Channel 247.

About AXN

AXN is Asia’s leading general entertainment channel, featuring exclusive top-rated drama series, blockbuster features, reality programs and groundbreaking original productions. The channel appeals to a discerning audience seeking content that is smart, intriguing and unexpected, all delivered close to US telecasts. From The Blacklist and MacGyver to Asia’s Got Talent and The Amazing Race Asia, AXN is defined not by a genre, but by an attitude that truly redefines action.

Launched first in Asia in 1997, AXN is a global channel brand with a presence in Latin America, Africa and Europe. In Asia, the channel is enjoyed in 126 million households across 20 territories and is available in both SD and HD.

AXN Asia is wholly owned by Sony Pictures Entertainment and managed by Sony Pictures Television Networks, Asia, which also operates leading channels including Animax, Sony Channel, ONE and GEM.

@AsiasGotTalent / #AXNAsia / #AsiasGotTalent / #AsiasGotTalentAudition

www.AXN-Asia.com/AsiasGotTalent

About Sony Pictures Television Networks

Sony Pictures Television Networks operates branded entertainment channels reaching nearly two billion households around the world. Based in Culver City, Amsterdam, Budapest, London, Madrid, Miami, Milan, Moscow, Mumbai, Munich, Singapore and Tokyo, Sony’s linear and digital networks offer high quality film and television content from Sony Pictures and third-parties, as well as original content commissioned globally and locally. Sony Pictures Television Networks is a division of Sony Pictures Television Inc., a Sony Pictures Entertainment company.

Winner of Asia’s Got Talent The Sacred Riana Takes Center Stage on New Season of America’s Got Talent

Fans of The Sacred Riana will be in for a thrilling surprise on AXN as she takes the US by storm in the latest season of America’s Got Talent, premiering this Thursday, May 31 at 6pm on AXN.

The Sacred Riana was crowned the winner of AXN’s Asia’s Got Talent season 2 after becoming the most anticipated act of the season. Her spooky persona and terrifying

illusions throughout the series made Riana a viral sensation with a whopping 100 million views on Facebook and YouTube.

After impressing (and scaring) Asia’s Got Talent’s judges, David Foster, Anggun and Jay Park, can The Sacred Riana do the same with Simon Cowell, Howie Mandel, Mel B and Heidi Klum on America’s Got Talent?

America’s Got Talent premieres Thursday, May 31 at 6pm on AXN, within 48 hours of the US telecast and encores at 10pm. From June 7 onwards, America’s Got Talent airs every Thursday at 6pm and encores at 8pm.

For an exclusive first look of America’s Got Talent, visit @AXNAsia on Facebook.

AXN is available on Cablelink Channel 38, Cignal Channel 121, Destiny Cable Channel 49, G Sat Channel 51, and SKYCable Channel 49. AXN HD is available on SKYCable Channel 247.

About AXN

AXN is Asia’s leading general entertainment channel, featuring exclusive top-rated drama series, blockbuster features, reality programs and groundbreaking original productions. The channel appeals to a discerning audience seeking content that is smart, intriguing and unexpected, all delivered close to US telecasts. From The Blacklist and MacGyver to Asia’s Got Talent and The Amazing Race Asia, AXN is defined not by a genre, but by an attitude that truly redefines action.

*This is Press Release

Watch the American Idol Performance and Finale Shows Live on Sony Channel

Get ahead of the internet spoilers and watch the excitement directly from the US with Sony Channel’s live broadcast of American Idol’s performance and finale result shows!

After an exciting and unpredictable journey, America has voted for the top three hopefuls who will be performing next week to take this season’s American Idol crown:

18-year-old Gabby Barrett’s (@gabbybarrett_) magnetic personality and powerhouse vocals have received high praise from the judges, Lionel Richie, Katy Perry and Luke Bryan.

Country singer, Caleb Lee Hutchinson (@calebleemusic) has been the hot favourite this season with his deep, soulful vocals and boyish charms.

Maddie Poppe (@maddiepoppe), a 20-year-old student who has a very distinct voice, stood out from the rest of the competitors with her unique take on popular songs.

Watch the live broadcast of the performance show on Monday, May 21 at 8am (7am JKT/BKK) and the finale result show on Tuesday, May 22 at 9am (8am JKT/BKK) on Sony Channel.

If you can’t get enough of their spectacular performances, tune-in to the encores of the performance show on Monday, May 21 at 6pm (5pm JKT/BKK) and 9.45pm (8:45pm JKT/BKK), and the finale result show on Tuesday May 22 at 6pm (5pm JKT/BKK) and 9:45pm (8:45pm JKT/BKK)

Join our Sony Channel event page to watch exclusive clips of their performances and receive reminder posts so that you wouldn’t miss the show. For more information, visit www.SonyChannelAsia.com and @SonyChannelAsia on Facebook and Twitter.

Sony Channel is available on Cablelink Channel 39, Cignal Channel 120, Destiny Cable Channel 35, G Sat Channel 48, and SKYCable Channel 35.


About Sony Channel

Sony Channel is the premier destination for female-skewing entertainment with the biggest and best of Hollywood. Designed for the socially connected viewer, Sony Channel features some of the most captivating and talked-about drama, comedy, lifestyle, and reality programs on TV, all airing close to the U.S. telecasts, together with popular feel-good movies.

Fresh, confident and stylish, with a dash of clever wit, Sony Channel is visually stunning with a brand identity that perfectly complements its line-up of high calibre programming. Sony Channel appeals to a female-skewed, male-inclusive audience who loves to escape, engage, and lose themselves in premium content. Viewers are modern, social, stylish, and aspirational.

Sony Channel is wholly owned by Sony Pictures Entertainment and managed by Sony Pictures Television Networks Asia, which also operates pay-TV channels AXN, Animax, ONE and GEM.

Visit www.SonyChannelAsia.com, and join the conversation @SonyChannelAsia on Facebook and Twitter.

*This is Press Release

AXN Kicks Off Star Search for New Season of Asia’s Got Talent

AXN, the leading English general entertainment channel and producer of Asia’s Got Talent, announced today that the online auditions for the third season of its hit-rated series will open on May 16 at www.AXN-Asia.com/AsiasGotTalent Auditions are open to aspiring performers of any age, any background and with any dream. Dancing, acrobatics, magic, comedy, athletic feats, singing, musical instruments – the AXN producers want to see it all. “Shock us, amaze us, thrill us and take a chance on your future,” said Derek Wong, Vice President of Production, Sony Pictures Television Networks, Asia. “AXN offers performers from over 15 countries in Asia one of the world’s largest platforms in which to amplify their careers. The finalists featured in our first two seasons have gone on to perform internationally, which is a testament to the power of Asia’s Got Talent in launching exciting new talent globally.”

The Sacred Riana, winner of Asia’s Got Talent Season 2, was discovered in Indonesia and became an overnight viral sensation in 2017 as she mesmerized – and terrified – viewers with her astoundingly spooky illusions. Her performances achieved over 70 million collective views on Facebook and YouTube alone, and trended globally at #2. “The Sacred Riana was not your typical talent act, but she captured the imaginations of millions of AXN viewers across the region who voted for her as the ultimate winner. I hope that Riana will inspire a new generation of performers to take the first step in pursuing their dreams and submit their auditions online,” said Wong. Aspiring stars can visit www.AXN-Asia.com/AsiasGotTalent from May 16 until July 9, 2018 to submit their applications. The audition video should be a maximum of two minutes, and should include a short introduction of the performer and their act. In addition to the online auditions, AXN will hold a series of open auditions in major cities across the region starting in June. Cities, dates and venues will be announced in the coming weeks via AXN’s TV channel and website as well its Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube platforms (@AXNAsia). The Got Talent franchise was created by Simon Cowell’s Syco Entertainment and is coproduced and owned by Syco Entertainment and FremantleMedia. It is entered in the Guinness World Records as the Most Successful Reality Television Format in history with 70 local versions produced across Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle-East, Africa and the Americas. Around the world, the Got Talent format airs in a total of 186 countries. AXN is Asia’s leading general entertainment channel, featuring exclusive top-rated drama series, blockbuster features, reality programs and groundbreaking original productions. The channel appeals to a discerning audience seeking content that is smart, intriguing and unexpected, all delivered close to US telecasts. From The Blacklist and MacGyver to Asia’s Got Talent and The Amazing Race Asia, AXN is defined not by a genre, but by an attitude that truly redefines action. Launched first in Asia in 1997, AXN is a global channel brand with a presence in Latin America, Africa and Europe. In Asia, the channel is enjoyed in 126 million households across 20 territories and is available in both SD and HD. AXN Asia is wholly owned by Sony Pictures Entertainment and managed by Sony Pictures Television Networks, Asia, which also operates leading channels including Animax, Sony Channel, ONE and GEM. AXN is available on Cablelink Channel 38, Cignal Channel 121, Destiny Cable Channel 49, G Sat Channel 51, and SKYCable Channel 49. AXN HD is available on SKYCable Channel 247. About Sony Pictures Television Networks Sony Pictures Television Networks operates branded entertainment channels reaching nearly two billion households around the world. Based in Culver City, Amsterdam, Budapest, London, Madrid, Miami, Milan, Moscow, Mumbai, Munich, Singapore and Tokyo, Sony’s linear and digital networks offer high quality film and television content from Sony Pictures and third-parties, as well as original content commissioned globally and locally. Sony Pictures Television Networks is a division of Sony Pictures Television Inc., a Sony Pictures Entertainment company. *This is Press Release

Filipina Fitri Cerado Returns to Asia’s Got Talent For Another Shot at Fame

Fourteen year-old Fitri Cerado is not giving up on her dreams of being a singer. After missing out on the Asia’s Got Talent semi-finals in season one, Fitri is back after two years of hard work and training.

“The reason I came back to Asia’s Got Talent is because I want to prove David [Foster] wrong. I want to prove that I could work harder on my piano. I don’t want to give up on anything, I just need to work harder,” Fitri said with determination.

“Did I crush your dream?” David Foster asked.

“No, because I’m here now,” Fitri confidently replied before performing a mesmerizing rendition of The Animals’ “The House of the Rising Sun.”

In the same episode, Anggun pushed her Golden Buzzer for 36-year-old comedic magician, Akira from Japan (#AkiraPippi).

“You just set a new standard. You just raised the bar for all the singers from now on. That was amazing, thank you,” Jay Park said. Fitri received three yeses from the judges and she’s now in the running to be in the semi-finals.

To watch these performances, extended highlights and exclusive behind-the-scenes clips, subscribe to the Asia’s Got Talent Official YouTube Channel at www.YouTube.com/AsiasGotTalent. For a full recap of this episode, visit www.AXN-Asia.com/AGT2recap.

“You made me laugh! And not only did you make me laugh, you gave away some magic tricks. I don’t know where this act is going, but I think I need you,” Anggun said. Akira will head directly to the semi-finals where he will be one step closer to winning the grand prize of USD100,000.

Asia’s Got Talent is the 67th adaptation of the Guinness-World-Record-breaking hit “Got Talent” format, which was created by Simon Cowell’s Syco Entertainment and is co-produced by FremantleMedia. The “Got Talent” format is officially the most successful reality TV format in history and currently airs in 186 countries.

Episode 2 encores this Saturday at 2:10pm on AXN. A new episode of Asia’s Got Talent airs every Thursday at 8:30pm. To follow the journey of this season’s acts, check out #AXNAsia and #AsiasGotTalent on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Marina Bay Sands, Asia’s leading business, leisure and entertainment destination, is the official venue partner of Asia’s Got Talent.

Asia’s Got Talent is supported by presenting sponsor Traveloka, the leading travel booking app for all flight and hotel needs; and sponsoring partner Great Eastern Life, the market leader in the conventional life insurance business and the largest life insurer in Malaysia by asset size. In the Philippines, Asia’s Got Talent is brought to you by Cherifer, Tangkad Sagad, KFC Delivery and Vivo Smart Phone. 

@AsiasGotTalent / #AXNAsia / #AsiasGotTalent / #AsiasGotTalentAuditions www.AXN-Asia.com/AsiasGotTalent

AXN is available on Cablelink Channel 38, Cignal Channel 121, Destiny Cable Channel 61, Dream Satellite TV Channel 20, G Sat Channel 51, and SKYCable Channel 49. AXN HD is available on SKYCable Channel 247.

AXN Announces World Premiere Date for Asia’s Got Talent Season 2: October 12, 2017

AXN announced today that the premiere date of the highly anticipated return of Asia’s Got Talent is slated for Thursday, October 12, 2017 at 8:30pm.

The hit-rated series, which broke regional pay-TV ratings records in 2015, will burst onto screens across Asia, featuring over 165 dynamic acts representing 15 countries.

“The region’s favorite entertainment series is back and it’s more mesmerizing, dazzling, spell-binding, and funnier than ever before. The first season of Asia’s Got Talent inspired a whole new generation of performers to audition this year and take a shot at their dreams. As a result, AXN viewers can expect a powerful season in both the quality of the acts, as well as the storytelling that supports them,” said Virginia Lim, Senior Vice President and Head of Content, Production and Marketing, Sony Pictures Television Networks, Asia.

As the world’s biggest talent contest, Asia’s Got Talent invites acts of any age and with any dream to compete for a USD100,000 grand prize. The new season will play host to a myriad of acts spanning multiple genres including magic, dancing, singing, instrumental, martial and visual arts and some more unusual acts that are too tricky to define.

The judges, 16-time Grammy-award winner and music producer David Foster; internationally acclaimed singing sensation Anggun and newcomer to the series, multi-platinum recording artist Jay Park, are in the hot seat to determine who goes through to the next round in the first five episodes, but it’s the audience – the ‘fourth judge’ – who will vote in the semi-final episodes to determine the ultimate winner.

Adding color commentary to the series are the dynamic new hosts Alan Wong and Justin Bratton who are the contestants’ cheerleaders from side stage.

“Every act that we meet has a story and a dream. We feel privileged to be supporting the region’s most outstanding performers as the hosts of Asia’s Got Talent,” said Alan.

Justin added, “AXN viewers will be blown away by the caliber of the acts this season. There is so much personality and energy, it’s a true reflection of the cultural diversity of our region.”

Asia’s Got Talent is the 67th adaptation of the Guinness-World-Record-breaking hit “Got Talent” format, which was created by Simon Cowell’s Syco Entertainment and is co-produced by FremantleMedia. The “Got Talent” format is officially the most successful reality TV format in history and currently airs in 186 countries.

Asia’s Got Talent is supported by presenting sponsor Traveloka, the leading travel booking app for all flight and hotel needs; and sponsoring partner Great Eastern Life, the market leader in the conventional life insurance business and the largest life insurer in Malaysia by asset size.

Marina Bay Sands, Asia’s leading business, leisure and entertainment destination, is the official venue partner of Asia’s Got Talent.

@AsiasGotTalent / #AXNAsia / #AsiasGotTalent / #AsiasGotTalentAuditions

www.AXN-Asia.com/AsiasGotTalent

[Editors’ note: Hi-res images, judges’ information and press releases are available to download via www.AXN-Asia.com/AGT2Press]  

AXN Asia: A leader in original productions

AXN is a leader of regionally produced original content in Asia, with notable ratings successes including the hit-rated, award-winning Asia’s Got Talent, five seasons of the international Emmy-nominated The Amazing Race Asia; the Asian Television Award-winning Cash Cab Asia and Cash Cab Philippines; The Apprentice Asia; and the Asian Television Award-nominated Cyril: Simply Magic.

About Sony Pictures Television Networks, Asia

Sony Pictures Television (SPT) Networks, Asia is a leading operator of ad-supported channels including English general entertainment powerhouses AXN and Sony Channel; and Asian content giants Animax, GEM and ONE. SPT Networks’ portfolio collectively features the biggest and best titles from Korea, Japan and the U.S that are first run, exclusive and aired close to the original telecast. Taking the content beyond the screen, SPT Networks immerses viewers in its premium entertainment via large-scale festivals, celebrity fan meets and social platform conversations. In Asia, SPT Networks’ portfolio is available across 19 territories and in over 42 million homes.

About Sony Pictures Television Networks

Sony Pictures Television Networks operates branded entertainment channels reaching over one billion households around the world. Based in Culver City, Amsterdam, Budapest, London, Madrid, Miami, Milan, Moscow, Mumbai, Munich, Singapore and Tokyo, Sony’s linear and digital networks offer high quality film and television content from Sony Pictures and third-parties, as well as original content commissioned globally and locally. Sony Pictures Television Networks is a division of Sony Pictures Television Inc., a Sony Pictures Entertainment company.

www.SonyPicturesTelevision.com

*This is Press Release

AXN Discovers Mesmerizing Talent During the Casting for Asia’s Got Talent

Head spinning, death-defying, magical and breath-taking: aspiring stars emerged from all corners of Asia in May as AXN’s producers embarked on their search to discover the next generation of super stars for Asia’s Got Talent. 

The leading entertainment giant held open auditions in six major cities including Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, the Philippines, Bangkok, Taipei and Jakarta. Over 5000 performers attended the auditions for their chance to take the spotlight on the world’s biggest talent show and for a shot at the grand prize of USD100,000 in cash.

Talented hopefuls could also apply via an online audition at AXN-Asia.com with some electing to do both to ensure maximum visibility in front of AXN’s producers.

“Asia’s Got Talent is the only series in the world that can unite such a culturally diverse region in a celebration of performing arts. We set out to discover the most inspiring talent of any age and with any dream, and we got all that and so much more. 

“We were also struck by the richness of the personal stories that emerged during the auditions. Everyone has a story, and while the journeys may differ, the big dream remains the same,” said Virginia Lim, Senior Vice President and Head of Content, Production and Marketing, Sony Pictures Television Networks, Asia. 

In the Singapore leg, one troupe of Malaysian acrobats queued from 4am; while in Manila, a father and son travelled overland for eight hours to perform a duet. Performers auditioned in the hope of winning the prize to help with family medical bills; while others, who came along as a support, decided to spontaneously audition on the spot.   

“AXN is the home of original productions and Asia’s Got Talent continues our commitment to deliver premium content that engages and captivates our viewers with edge-of-your seat entertainment,” said Virginia. 

The record-breaking series returns to AXN later this year, entertaining viewers with 10 episodes comprising five judges’ auditions, three semi-finals, the finale and the results show where the winner will be revealed. 

Asia’s Got Talent is presented by official sponsor, Traveloka, the leading travel booking app. 

@AsiasGotTalent / #AXNAsia / #AsiasGotTalent / #AsiasGotTalentAudition

www.AXN-Asia.com/AsiasGotTalent)

New Ratings Records in Asia

Season one of Asia’s Got Talent set new ratings records for the English general entertainment (GE) genre during its run, taking AXN to the number one spot in its timeslot among all regional pay-TV channels collectively across Southeast Asia and Taiwan.2

In Malaysia, Asia’s Got Talent was the highest rated entertainment series on English language channels on Astro in the past two years. In the Philippines, the Grand Final Results episode of Asia’s Got Talent was the highest rated pay-TV program in the country since 2008, and commanded a 96 percent share among 22 English GE channels. 3

Got Talent Globally

The Got Talent franchise was created by Simon Cowell’s Syco Entertainment and is co-produced and owned by Syco Entertainment and FremantleMedia. It is entered in the Guinness World Records as the Most Successful Reality Television Format in history with 70 local versions produced across Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle-East, Africa and the Americas. Around the world, the Got Talent format airs in a total of 186 countries.

AXN: A leader in original productions

AXN is a leader of regionally produced original content in Asia, with notable ratings successes including five seasons of the international Emmy-nominated The Amazing Race Asia; the Asian Television Award-winning Cash Cab Asia and Cash Cab Philippines; The Apprentice Asia; Cyril: Rio Magic; Cyril’s Family Vacation: Hawaii Edition; and the Asian Television Award-nominated Cyril: Simply Magic.

About AXN

AXN is Asia’s leading general entertainment channel featuring exclusive top-rated drama series, blockbuster features, reality programs and ground-breaking original productions. The channel appeals to a discerning audience seeking content that is smart, intriguing and unexpected, all delivered close to U.S telecasts. From The Blacklist and Quantico, to MacGyver and The Amazing Race Asia, AXN is defined not by a genre, but by an attitude that truly redefines action.

Launched first in Asia in 1997, AXN is a global channel brand with a presence in Latin America, Africa and Europe. In Asia, the channel is enjoyed in 126 million households across 19 territories and is available in both SD and HD.

AXN Asia is wholly owned by Sony Pictures Entertainment and managed by Sony Pictures Television Networks, Asia, which also operates leading channels including Animax, Sony Channel, ONE and GEM.