From January Viacom will integrate the UPN and CBS Broadcast Networks under CBS Television Unit. CBS Television also includes Viacom's 34 stations; CBS Entertainment, CBS News, CBS Sports; and the network's distribution unit, CBS Enterprises.

Viacom is a leading global media company. It's well-known brands include CBS, MTV, Nickelodeon, and Paramount Pictures.

Viacom's president and chief operating officer Mel Karmazin said: "Today's announcement is the culmination of a process that began with the merger of Viacom and CBS. With sole ownership and key long-term affiliation agreements in place, and with 2001 upfront and season launches that resulted in higher revenues and ratings, there is no better time to bring UPN together with CBS, which is also enjoying one of the best years in its history."

UPN premiered on 16 January 1995 as a two-night network in 96 markets. Today, UPN broadcasts programming on five nights, with 84 per cent primary coverage. Viacom is looking to cut costs by streamlining and bringing new efficiencies to the broadcast business. At the same time CBS and UPN will continue to be broadcast free, over-the-air .

UPN has managed to assemble a strong and geographically diverse group of affiliates. The company also created a successful lineup with bold programming development and acquisitions. Thus a distinct network identity was built. UPN claims that ratings are up on four out of five nights and the key building blocks for continued success are in place. UPN is confident of building on this strength through the efficiencies and additional resources available under the CBS umbrella.

Through this initiative the CBS Television group believes that it can increase advertising sales while building on its track record of bringing distinctive and successful programming to the screen.

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