MUMBAI: MTV Germany will launch the first dedicated comedy channel on free-to-view German television. Comedy Central launches next year.

To this end, the channel will broadcast not only shows from its American namesake, but also home-grown German productions. In addition, it will provide a platform for local comedy talent.

MTV Germany vice president Markus Andorfer will oversee Comedy Central in addition to Nickelodeon. He says, "In the US, we have made a name for ourselves with programmes such as South Park, Chappelle’s Show and the Emmy Award-winning Daily Show with Jon Stewart. The schedule will be tailored to German tastes, to help us reach the 14-49 year olds audience in Germany."

Andorfer oversaw the launch of Nickelodeon, successfully establishing it in the marketplace since it began broadcasting in September 2005.

Comedy Central's channel manager in Germany Thorsten Sievert says, "This new position is particularly challenging, because there has never been a 24-hour comedy channel on German television."