Oprah, Discovery team up on new network

CHICAGO , Jan. 15 (UPI) -- U.S. television talk-show host Oprah Winfrey and Discovery Communications said they are joining forces to form OWN -- The Oprah Winfrey Network.

Set to premiere next year on what is currently the Discovery Health Channel, OWN will be distributed to 70 million U.S. homes, said Winfrey and Discovery in a statement announcing their new multi-platform media venture, which will also include the award-winning digital platform, Oprah.com.

"Fifteen years ago, I wrote in my journal that one day I would create a television network, as I always felt my show was just the beginning of what the future could hold," said Winfrey, who will be the network's chairman. "For me, the launch of 'The Oprah Winfrey Network' is the evolution of the work I've been doing on television all these years and a natural extension of my show."

"There is no stronger voice than Oprah Winfrey in engaging, motivating and connecting people to live healthier lives. Oprah has inspired me personally, and through this new venture, Oprah's talent and drive will have a dedicated multi-media platform to empower, engage and connect with people on-air and on-line," said David Zaslav, president and CEO of Discovery Communications.