• by Fern Siegel , March 23, 2011

Hallmark Channel's corporate parent has announced a new name -- Crown Media Networks -- and a new logo. The company also unveiled its upcoming programming slate for 2011-12.

The revamp signals the company's desire to "realign Hallmark Channel and Hallmark Movie Channel as distinct media offerings," stated Bill Abbott, president/CEO, Crown Media Holdings.

Highlights of the new season include 25 original Hallmark Channel movies, eight Movie Channel premieres and a new 13-episode inspirational lifestyle series "The Spirit Table," hosted by writer/ activist Maya Angelou. "Spirit Table" will blend her family and traditions with interesting guests, who share their own meaningful experiences.

One of the upcoming Hallmark specials is "Martha Stewart Presents," a prime-time interview show in which the domestic diva -- who currently has a daily programming block on the channel -- welcomes various headliners.

Also in the home category, "Emeril's Table," a new cooking show with celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse, will debut in the fourth quarter.

Michelle Vicary, executive vice president, programming, Hallmark Channel and Hallmark Movie Channel, called the original shows that celebrate family and holidays "the centerpiece" of the network's schedule.

On the film front, buoyed by the January success of the Jason Priestley-directed "Goodnight for Justice," the movie will get a sequel, "Goodnight For Justice 2," in early 2012. The Hallmark Movie Channel is now seen in 40 million U.S. homes.

Hallmark, known for its warm holiday specials, is also promoting -- among various titles -- "Jingle All the Way," a half-hour animated special starring Jingle the Husky Pup, based on the interactive story book.

Hallmark Channel, aired in both HD and SD, is distributed to 87.5 million subscribers.