AMC Networks is investing $200M for a 49.9 percent stake in BBC America, which is part of British Broadcasting Corp.

The New York-based parent of cable networks AMC, IFC, SundanceTV, WE tv, and IFC Films will assume operational control of BBC America including affiliate and advertising sales.

About 80M US households receive BBC America, watching shows such as "Doctor Who," "Orphan Black" and "Top Gear."

The partnership also calls for AMC to represent BBC World News for distribution and ad sales. That service goes into 30M US homes.

Josh Sapan, CEO of AMC, called the BBC one of the most recognized, trusted and respected brands in the world.

"A combined AMC Networks-BBC AMERICA channel group creates a powerful collection of networks that are among the most critically-acclaimed, with distinct dramas and other potent content that creates a deep connection with viewers," he said in a statement. "Our content rises to the top on many levels and is particularly well-suited to an era of on-demand viewing and expanding consumer choice."

AMC enjoyed a 37.6% rise in 2Q revenues to $522M. Operating income slipped 47.6 percent to $129M largely due to a $133M litigation gain during the previous year's quarter.

In July, the company re-branded its international programming under the AMC Networks International banner. The move covered AMC/Sundance Global and Chellomedia, which reach 140M homes overseas.

Cablevision spun off AMC in 2011.