AMC Networks pays $200 million for 49.9 percent stake in BBC America

AMC Networks Inc. says it will pay $200 million to acquire a stake in BBC America.

The entertainment company known for shows such as "The Walking Dead" and "Mad Men" will have a 49.9 percent equity stake in the cable channel that is home of shows such as "Doctor Who" and "Orphan Black." BBC Worldwide, the commercial arm of the British Broadcasting Corporation, will retain 50.1 percent ownership.

New York-based AMC will have operational control of BBC America and manage it as a stand-alone channel.