Gaming and esports media network VENN has unveiled its new programming, with the firm revealing plans to expand its network strategy during 2021.
According to the release, the network will broadcast more original programming alongside a range of esports tournaments.
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One of two new esports-focused programmes arriving in 2021 for VENN is League of Legends esports talk show Facecheck. Former LCS player Christian ‘IWDominate’ Rivera will host the show alongside ex-LCK English caster Nick ‘LS’ De Cesare.
Ariel Horn, Co-Founder of VENN, spoke on the network’s 2021 plans in a release: “In 2021 our top priority is increasing brand awareness and resonance amongst core gamers. In addition to our existing brand of crossover lifestyle content, we are expanding to focus around deeper core gaming topics and doubling down on esports partnerships.
“Everything we are announcing today, paired with our core programming such as The Download and Guest House will help achieve that goal and set ourselves up for continued success in 2021”.
The second esports-related programme announced is ‘Origin Stories’, an interview show hosted by OpTic Gaming Founder and CEO Hector ‘H3CZ’ Rodriguez. The programme will see Rodruiez sit down with a celebrity, gaming content creator, ‘esports titan’, or leading video game executive each episode to focus on their specific journey in the industry.
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Regarding the show, Rodriguez commented: “Esports and gaming have crossed over into popular culture, and I’m excited to partner with VENN to share the ‘Origin Stories’ of those that made it happen.”
According to the network, more programming, content, and distribution deals are expected to be unveiled ‘over the coming months’.
In October 2020, VENN secured $26m (£19.05m) in Series A funding round led by seed-round investor BITKRAFT and Nextar Media Group. The platform also entered a strategic partnership with tournament organiser BLAST, which will see it broadcast the North American qualifier for Blast Premier 2021.
Aaron Godfred, Senior Vice President of Originals, added: “We are fortunate to have a very engaged audience that has made clear the type of content and programming that is most impactful to them. Partnering with this group of world-class creators and properties for new series will not only resonate with our base, but also bring VENN another step forward in our quest to deliver ambitious, distinct gaming content to a global audience.”
Esports Insider says: While VENN continues to merge live-streaming and gaming culture with a more traditional TV model, its 2021 offerings look to provide a healthy balance that caters for all areas of the community, including esports.