AMC Networks is stepping into the 2025 Upfront season with a clear message for advertisers: look beyond linear TV. From expanding ad-supported streaming to an unprecedented collaboration with the Las Vegas Sphere, AMC is reimagining how brands connect with audiences across platforms.
Known for legacy channels like AMC and IFC, AMC Networks is now putting equal weight behind its specialized streamers like Shudder (horror-focused) and Acorn TV (British and international drama). The goal? To bring advertisers into all corners of the AMC ecosystem.
Kim Kelleher, Chief Commercial Officer at AMC Networks, said, “We’re really expanding what we cover beyond just the core franchises… into some of the brands that we’ve developed, like Shudder and Acorn that really deserve their own stage moment.”
One of the most exciting initiatives is a unique advertising integration with the Las Vegas Sphere, a cutting-edge venue backed by AMC Networks’ parent company, the Dolan family.
Evan Adlman, EVP of Commercial Sales and Revenue Operations, said, “This has never been done before.” And added, “It’s a pure white space.”
In October, brands advertising during AMC’s fan-favorite “Fear Fest” Halloween programming will see their campaigns amplified on the Sphere’s massive digital exterior, thanks to Sphere Studios’ custom creative executions.
To further boost ad inventory and reach, Shudder will launch an ad-supported tier for the first time in its 10-year history—opening the door for fresh placement formats and sponsor collaborations.
In addition, Acorn TV Mysteries will roll out as a FAST channel, featuring popular titles like My Life Is Murder, Harry Wild, Inspector Ellis, and Irish Blood starring Alicia Silverstone. Acorn is also set to premiere Allie & Andi, a crime drama led by Brooke Shields, who also serves as executive producer.
AMC will also introduce Murder Mystery May, a month-long event celebrating suspense and crime dramas across Acorn TV and other platforms. AMC won’t lose sight of its flagship titles. 2025 marks the 15th anniversary of The Walking Dead, and the network plans a yearlong celebration packed with new programming from Dead City and Daryl Dixon spin-offs, and fan-engagement events.
Fans of Interview with the Vampire can also expect a bold new direction. Season three will introduce Vampire Lestat as a rockstar, accompanied by unique brand opportunities from shoppable merch in the Rock Shop to co-branded content integrations and fan-facing soundchecks.
AMC Networks is also leaning into flexible measurement and buying models, inviting advertisers to transact across platforms in ways that match their evolving needs.
“The opportunity for us is to break down silos and begin to let our advertisers transact and measure how they want to and how they need to,” said Kelleher. “We hope brands will take advantage of some of the new currency opportunities… which allow you to get access to the largest aggregated audience that we’ve ever had.”
Despite a reported 11% dip in U.S. ad revenue attributed to a tough linear landscape AMC’s broader focus on streaming, FAST, and creative venues like the Sphere is a signal that innovation is at the core of their advertising future.