Broadband Content Bits: Hearst; RDF; WaPo; MySpace; Meredith

Hearst is going “green” for a new standalone website. TheDailyGreen.com is the latest in a string of content initiatives that taps into environmental issues. The site is set to go live in beta form on Apr. 22, Earth Day. The venture is Hearst Magazines Digital Media group’s first standalone web launch. The site is being designed as both a service outlet for those who are interested in living a more eco-friendly lifestyle, as well as a social net component. To promote the new site, Hearst will feature select DailyGreen editorial in House Beautiful each month as well as on other Hearst sites. It will also work with MySpace and Facebook for its online community aspects.

Reality show producer RDF is launching a digital division to develop spin-off businesses from its network series as well as produce original content for web portals. While similar to Mark Burnett Productions’ original series Gold Rush for AOL, RDF is going a step further, actually seeking to make money from the new-media platforms directly. Though it’s not giving up on arrangements with TV networks entirely. Among the digital initiatives growing out of RDF’s network series are a subscription diet site for an upcoming Shaquille O’Neal weight-loss reality show on ABC.

The Washington Post will provide Hi-Def video podcasts for iTunes. The content consists of documentary pieces that have been shot with high-definition cameras. The first documentaries being made available are Being a Black Man, a series by videojournalist Ben De La Cruz and a one on Darfur refugees by Travis Fox.

MySpace Trailer Park, a new dedicated channel within the News Corp. devoted to debuting new theatrical movie previews, has just been launched. Lionsgate is the channel’s first partner. The studio is promoting the forthcoming comedy Good Luck Chuck on the site. Other content will premiere on Trailer Park three- to six months prior to a film

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