Pilot TV, which goes on sale on April 5, is the companion to a new TV world, where on-demand providers and platforms such as Netflix, Amazon, Hulu, Sky, NOW TV, Virgin TV and Apple have driven a dramatic increase in the production of high-quality shows.

It has been created by Empire Editor-in-Chief Terri White and the magazine team, along with additional expertise from heat magazine’s Entertainment Director Boyd Hilton.

The magazine has three main sections: The Watchlist, (featuring the shows you should be excited about now), Features (an in-depth look at the stories and talent behind great new and classic TV) and The Box (a deep dive into the archive of classic shows available to watch).

A raft of big-name writers have contributed to the first issue, including Guardian columnist Julia Raeside, novelist and screenwriter David Whitehouse, novelist and scriptwriter Jason Arnopp and broadsheet writers and broadcasters Jude Rogers and Michael Hogan.

The issue also features a series of exclusive first-look pictures and stories including: Hugh Grant’s only interview for BBC drama A Very English Scandal; an in-depth Q&A with Michael C Hall; a first look at the new Alan Partridge; Antonio Banderas on his starring role in new show, Genius: Picasso; Noel Clarke’s very first interview for upcoming Sky One show Bulletproof; an on-set report from season two of Westworld and a huge cover story with the cast and creators of Netflix hit Luke Cage.

Commenting on the launch, Editor-in-Chief Terri White said: “Pilot TV is the first magazine of its kind, anywhere in the world: a magazine dedicated to the life-consuming world of cinematic TV. Even fifteen years ago – with the existence of The Wire, The West Wing and The Sopranos – it seemed unthinkable that one day we would have quite so many ways to watch so many great shows! In truth, it can be overwhelming – and that’s where we come in.

“Pilot TV will tell you what’s worth watching, why and – crucially – in what order, while bringing you intimate access to the men and women who make the shows that will change your life. For, this is not just telly. These are shows with the budget, scale, scope, production values, filmmaking talent and storytelling chops only previously found on the big screen. It’s a whole new world – and you’re not going to want to navigate it without us.”

Patrick Horton, Managing Director of Bauer Media’s Entertainment portfolio, added: “The opportunity to launch a new magazine with such a talented and knowledgeable team was too good to pass up. Taking the incredible values of Empire – its access, depth and passion – and applying it to this vibrant, creative space has resulted in something truly special. We can’t wait to get it in the hands of entertainment fans who will appreciate this rich celebration of the TV they love.”

The first issue of the magazine will go on sale on April 5 priced at £4.99 with 132 pages, with the intention of publishing more frequently from September.