New COO at Discovery Channel and The Science Channel

Tom Cosgrove to Oversee Strategy as Chief Operating Officer

SILVER SPRING, Md., Sept. 20 -- Discovery Communications announced today that Tom Cosgrove has been appointed Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President for Discovery Channel and The Science Channel, reporting to President and General Manager Jane Root. He will manage the overall network strategy for Discovery Channel and The Science Channel.

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He succeeds Doug Coblens, who now serves as Executive Vice President, Business Strategy and New Media for Discovery Communications.

Cosgrove previously served as Senior Vice President and General Manager of The Science Channel, where he directed the day-to-day operations of the network, including planning and executing the programming and development, business, and brand-enhancing strategies. He continues as acting general manager while The Science Channel seeks a successor.

“Tom is a tremendous asset to our networks,” Root said. “He understands both the business needs and realities of our industry, while being completely plugged into the creative, development process. This will ensure balance and focus as we grow and innovate.”

Prior to joining Discovery Networks, Cosgrove served as General Manager for TV Guide Channel, where he led direct day-to-day oversight of programming, production, marketing, business affairs, brand strategy, research and operations. He was responsible for year-over-year ratings growth for the first time in TV Guide Channel history. Cosgrove also has held senior management positions at ABC Family, Fox Family, Fox Kids, Fox Broadcasting, and Leo Burnett, in addition to running his own consultancy.

About Discovery Communications
Discovery Communications is the number-one nonfiction media company reaching more than 1.5 billion cumulative subscribers in over 170 countries. Through TV and digital media, Discovery's 100-plus worldwide networks include Discovery Channel, Animal Planet, Discovery Science and Discovery HD. Discovery Networks International distributes 15 international brands, reaching 781 million cumulative subscribers with programming available in 35 languages. Discovery Communications is owned by Discovery Holding Co. (NASDAQ: DISCA, DISCB), Advance/Newhouse Communications and John S. Hendricks, Discovery's founder and chairman. For more information please visit www.discoverycommunications.com.

Source: Discovery Communications