EPIX Believes in Comedy - Announces Two Original Programs Showcasing Louis C.K. and Lewis Black

NEW YORK -- Hot on the heels of its first Emmy nomination for Believe: The Eddie Izzard Story, EPIX turns to two more big name comics, expanding original programming on the multiplatform service launched by Paramount, MGM and Lionsgate.

"So I love the idea of allowing them the room to really expand and showcase their talents and at the same time, deliver a unique viewing experience."

Lewis Black, the award-winning comedian and Daily Show contributor, returns to EPIX on August 1 with Basic Black. In Basic Black, documentary filmmakers follow the performer on his sold-out tour and first EPIX comedy special, Stark Raving Black. Concert footage is weaved with that of the comedian early in his career, reflections on his childhood, parents and the slow climb to fame where he says he had to "lick every rung on the ladder." Known for his outrage with the entire social and political spectrum, Black gives the audience an in-depth look at his journey as a performer.

On September 18, EPIX will turn to Louis C.K., writer, director, editor and star of the critically acclaimed FX series Louie, for the television premiere of the unique and dynamic live stand-up concert film Louis C.K.: Hilarious. Directed by Louis, his exploration of life after 40 destroys politically correct images of modern life with thoughts we have all had...but would rarely admit to. The film will also have a limited independent theatrical release prior to premiering on EPIX. Filmed as part of his international theater tour, Louis C.K.: Hilarious premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January as the first stand-up concert film presented at Sundance. Variety raved, "Standup comedy cinema has a new star in Louis C.K.: Hilarious." Louis' new theater tour, "Louis C.K.: Word," will kick off on September 17 in San Francisco. For full tour dates visit www.LouisCK.net.

"EPIX has some of the smartest, funniest comedians on our channel," said EPIX President Mark Greenberg, "So I love the idea of allowing them the room to really expand and showcase their talents and at the same time, deliver a unique viewing experience."

About EPIX

EPIX, a joint venture between Viacom Inc. (NYSE: VIA and VIA.B), its Paramount Pictures unit, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc. (MGM) and Lionsgate (NYSE: LGF), is a next-generation premium entertainment channel, video-on-demand and online service. With access to more than 15,000 motion pictures spanning the vast libraries of its partners and other studios, EPIX provides a powerful entertainment experience with more feature films on demand and online and more HD movies than any other service. It is the only premium service providing its entire monthly line-up of new Hollywood titles, classic feature films, original series, music and comedy specials through the linear channel, video-on-demand and online at EpixHD.com, the leading online destination for movies. EPIX has made the commitment to deliver the industry's most expansive online collection of movies, making more than 3,000 titles available to subscribers this year. The service is available to over 30 million homes nationwide through carriage agreements with Verizon FiOS, DISH Network, Cox Communications, Mediacom Communications, Charter Communications and NCTC.

For more information about EPIX, go to www.EpixHD.com