Channel 4 is entering the FAST arena with two new channels debuting in the United States.
4 Adventure and 4 Emergency will offer programmes from the British public service broadcaster and other UK providers. They’ll be distributed on the US streaming platforms Tubi, Plex and Xumo Play.
Channel 4’s Head of Streaming Editorial, UK & International, Alex Wall said: “Launching our first ever international channels is a pivotal moment for Channel 4 and opens up a huge range of exciting possibilities.
“These channels will introduce US audiences to popular shows that embody our core brand values, bringing Channel 4’s unique tone of voice and our rich British culture to the US FAST market. It also provides a great opportunity to further diversify our revenue streams, and with more deals in the pipeline, we’re really excited about this new chapter for Channel 4.”
4 Adventure will feature a range of reality and documentary programmes centred around survival challenges and endurance such as Shipwrecked and The Island With Bear Grylls.
4 Emergency will give US viewers a unique insight into the frontline of British health and emergency response systems featuring programmes such as 24 Hours In A&E, Emergency Helicopter Medics, Emergency Rescue: Air, Land & Sea and Paramedics: On The Frontline (999: On The Frontline in the UK).
The FAST channels represent an entirely new venture for Channel 4 enabling the broadcaster to export British content and offer more international exposure and opportunities to British indies.
“With nearly 250 channels, our FAST offering provides our viewers with a lean-back, drop-in experience, allowing them to dive deep into their obsessions – from reality, to documentaries, to action and beyond,” said Sam Harowitz, Vice President of Content Acquisitions, Tubi. “We’re thrilled to partner with Channel 4 to bring their beloved British programming to our platform, which we’re certain will entertain and captivate our audiences.”
Channel 4 has partnered with Amagi, Broadcast Intelligence and Gracenote to support the technical delivery of its content on the FAST channels.
