Rivals miss out as Sky launches Atlantic channel

Customers of Virgin Media and BT Vision face missing out on the latest top shows from America, including Boardwalk Empire and The Borgias, as the companies have failed to secure a deal for Sky's new drama channel.

The satellite broadcaster yesterday confirmed Sky Atlantic would launch in the UK next month and would be free to its 10 million subscribers. Virgin and BT, which show Sky channels including premium sports through a wholesale arrangement, have held talks over the new channel but have been unable to agree a deal. The broadcasters are hopeful of reaching an agreement, but remain some way apart over terms for the channel that will also show the new seasons of Mad Men and Entourage.