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ESPN and STAR Sports get a makeover

Along with broadcasting a series of sporting events, ESPN and STAR Sports have been revamped

The look and feel of both ESPN and STAR Sports has changed. ESPN Star Sports (ESS) rolled out a new look for its existing mainstream channels, on Sunday midnight, for the entire region (Asia).

The timing of the revamp has been kept in tune with the channels' high-activity phase. The two channels will telecast a sports extravaganza from this month, including ICC Champions Trophy, Airtel Champions League Twenty20, Formula One Grand Prix and the Barclays Premier League.

ESPN and STAR Sports get a makeover
The new on-air presentation is aimed at further strengthening the channels' connection with audiences and attracting new demographics.

While the logo and on-air presentation of STAR Sports has been altered, ESPN India has retained its logo and changed its presentation.

The on-air presentation package, including the graphics for STAR Sports, has been developed by Infinite Frameworks; while BDA is behind the new look of ESPN.

ESPN and STAR Sports get a makeover
STAR Sports' logo has been kept in sync with the logos of STAR Movies and STAR World, using the same typography. The big 'new' in the logo of STAR Sports has been placed with the aim of capturing the spirit of action and entertainment, encouraging fans to become a part of the channel.

ESPN's new on-air presentation aims to reinforce its 'Home of Sports' status. This is highlighted by the scoreboard motif, which aims to communicate the informative and newsy nature of the channel.

For both ESPN and STAR Sports, the on-air presentation, including brand idents, presenter idents, logo stings, bumpers, end pages, lower thirds, menu boards, backgrounds, monthly highlights and billboards have been changed. The new on-air elements incorporate bold colours and vibrant motifs and feature on-air talents from each network.

Talking about the new look of the channels, RC Venkateish, managing director, ESPN Software India says, "ESPN is a 12-year-old channel in the country. To keep the channels modern and relevant for the audience, we decided to go in for the change. Also, the timing was good, as we are entering into a high-activity phase lined up on the channel for the next few months."

The channel's news magazine show, SportsCenter will also get a fresh new look. All the five editions of the show will have enhanced studio setup, presentation and graphics to increase their visual appeal for the audience.

"The new look reflects the premium appeal and international image of SportsCenter, as it continues to bring quality sports news and editorial presentation from across the world," adds Venkateish.

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