In a surprise move that THR uncovered earlier today, it turns out that NBCUniversal’s rebrand of G4 into The Esquire Network is taking a bit longer that originally planned. The initial expectation was to have it all wrapped up and good to go on April 22, but they are now holding back in order to launch with five original programs. Esquire was initially set to be a much broader-based replay hub (at least initially,) but now it looks like fresh content will help drive its identity beyond that of G4.
So far, the network will be home to Parks & Recreation repeats, American Ninja Warrior, and two unscripted programs from Ryan Seacrest. Being added to the list today are programs called The Getaway (a travel-based show from Anthony Bourdain) and a cooking competition series called Knife Fight as well as the Matt Hranek-hosted American Field Trip. Other replay programming includes Party Down, Psych, Burn Notice, and Late Night with Jimmy Fallon.
Remember the London Games? Well, get over them because the world has moved on to Sochi, Russia where the 2014 Winter Olympics will be held. NBCUniversal is already rolling out the marketing campaign complete with a teaser promo and some finer details on their broadcast schedule. As expected, things will begin in primetime one day prior to the opening ceremony on February 6. This is a new move for the network, but one worth attempting in a world where people have been increasingly critical about tape delays for such events. 
The inevitable telethon to benefit the victims of Hurricane Sandy has finally come to light. NBCUniversal will be leveraging all of their networks across the dial for a one-hour event called Hurricane Sandy: Coming Together. Dated for Friday, November 2, the special will be hosted by Today Show anchor Matt Lauer and feature appearances by Christina Aguilera, Bruce Springsteen, Jimmy Fallon, and more. Money collected will go directly to the American Red Cross. Hit the jump for the details including which networks will air the event. 
NBCUniversal has announced today a new effort to integrate the social experience with their programming called Universal Games Network. This is essentially a casual gaming platform that is designed to help tie in sponsorships with certain television shows and cable networks. Read on for the full press release from NBCU.