History committed to variety, compelling programming on South African schedule; looking at more long running series in future.

History (DStv 254) isn't repeating itself. It's growing. The History channel tells me that its committed to bringing history into the living rooms of South African TV viewers and that the channel is looking at adding more compelling content in future, as well as more longer running series.

I asked History what the channel has in store for the rest of 2011. ''2011 is all about big, break out series on History,'' says Kerri Read, the head of marketing at AETN UK tht runs History. ''These are focused on the bringing of history into the living rooms of the South African audience in a relevant way. Shows like Pawn Stars and American Pickers are great fun shows that use dynamic hosts to bring the history of items to life. We will also celebrate the Royal Wedding in April.''

I asked History what kind of shows are resonating with South African viewers. ''Variety within our South African History schedule is key,'' says Kerri Read, ''which is why you will find ancient history, WWII, biographies and compelling contemporary programming.''

''History core subjects including Nostradamus, and ancient history, continue to be popular genres on the channel, she sais. ''South African viewers have also been particularly responsive to the contemporary programming on the channel such as Ice Road Truckers, Pawn Stars and 102 Minutes That Changed America. In the future, variety will continue to be a focus in our programming offer, but viewers can also look forward more long running series where they can engage with both the history and the hosts.''

ALSO READ: History to celebrate the Royal Wedding of Prince William on 29 April with two TV specials on the day.