• by Gavin O'Malley  @mp_gavin, May 30, 2013

Adding to its video assets, Revision3 has acquired DeFranco Creative -- Phil DeFranco’s network of YouTube channels and ventures. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Per the deal, Revision3 -- Discovery Communications’ online video unit -- is adding DeFranco himself to its leadership team as senior vice president of Phil DeFranco Networks and Merchandise.

Jim Louderback, CEO of Revision3, touted DeFranco's ability to delight audiences, build passionate fanbases and launch new franchises.”

DeFranco’s portfolio includes "The Philip DeFranco Show," "SourceFed" and "The Vloggity." Launched in 2006, "The Philip DeFranco Show" is a daily source of news and commentary for more than 2.5 million subscribers. All told, DeFranco’s portfolio of channels and shows have generated more than 1 billion video views, according to internal estimates.

The deal marks the culmination of an ongoing partnership between DeFranco and Discovery Communications. The Web and TV personality has hosted Discovery Channel’s Shark Week, as well as Shark Week Chompdown.

Ramping up its online video strategy, Discovery Communications acquired Revision3 in May 2012. Under Discovery’s stewardship, Revision3’s online audience has grown 175%, and video streams have more than tripled, according to the unit.

Earlier this month, Revision3 also helped Discovery launch TestTube.com -- an online science network targeting young men, and featuring 15 short-form original video series.

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