CUBAN’S HDNET TO BECOME POP-CULTURE OUTLET AXS

While older folks are likely to associate the Axis as the World War II alliance of Hitler, Mussolini and Tojo, the younger generation may soon identify the name with the rebranded HDNet. Spelled AXS and pronounced “access,” the channel is a partnership of Cuban, Ryan Seacrest, concert promoters AEG, and the Creative Artists Agency. It’s expected to focus on pop culture and feature concerts and lifestyle programming aimed at young viewers. In an interview with the Los Angeles Times, Cuban described it as a “SportsCenter for pop culture and music.” He indicated, however, that Dan Rather Reports, the investigative documentary series hosted by the former CBS anchor, will continue to be carried by the network. On the other hand, Girls Gone Wild, along with other shows rated TV-MA, “goes away,” Cuban told the Times.