Channel 4, a renowned UK broadcaster, has forayed internationally by collaborating with American streaming platforms Tubi, Plex, and Xumo Play.
The streaming platforms will feature Channel 4’s offerings, 4 Adventure and 4 Emergency, as Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television (FAST) channels. This integration will make many Channel 4 shows and other UK content accessible to countless Americans, free of charge.
Alex Wall, the lead for Streaming Editorial at Channel 4 for the UK and International domains, expressed, “This international channel debut is a landmark for us, paving the way for countless intriguing prospects. Our new channels will acquaint US viewers with acclaimed shows that resonate with our brand essence. This initiative brings Channel 4’s distinct British flavour to the US audience and diversifies our income sources. We’re eagerly awaiting this fresh phase for Channel 4 with more collaborations on the horizon.”
4 Adventure is set to showcase a variety of documentaries and reality shows that revolve around endurance tests, including hits like Shipwrecked and The Island With Bear Grylls.
In contrast, 4 Emergency will offer Americans a closer look into the core of the UK’s medical and emergency services, featuring shows such as 24 Hours In A&E and Paramedics: On The Frontline.
These FAST Channels are a pioneering effort by Channel 4, amplifying British content on a global stage and presenting British creators with international prospects.
Alex continued, “Our nimble operation at Channel 4 permits us to tap into the rapidly growing market’s potential.”
Sam Harowitz, VP of Content Acquisitions at Tubi, remarked on their extensive offerings, “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.”
He expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “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.”
Shawn Eldridge from Plex shared, “Including Channel 4’s premium shows like 4 Adventure and 4 Emergency complements our extensive selection of FAST channels.”
Anthony Layser from Xumo added, “Channel 4’s entry on Xumo Play boosts our international content, delivering distinctive British programming to our vast audience.”
And more such collaborative announcements with other platforms are expected later this year.
Channel 4 has teamed up with Amagi, Broadcast Intelligence, and Gracenote to ensure seamless content delivery on the FAST channels. Alex pointed out, “Our collaboration with Gracenote enhances viewer attraction and interaction with our top-tier content on renowned FAST platforms in the US.”
4 Emergency and 4 Adventure can be streamed on Tubi, Plex, and Xumo Play starting this month.
Krishna Rao Vijayanagar
Krishna Rao Vijayanagar, Ph.D., is the Editor-in-Chief of OTTVerse, a news portal covering tech and business news in the OTT industry.
With extensive experience in video encoding, streaming, analytics, monetization, end-to-end streaming, and more, Krishna has held multiple leadership roles in R&D, Engineering, and Product at companies such as Harmonic Inc., MediaMelon, and Airtel Digital. Krishna has published numerous articles and research papers and speaks at industry events to share his insights and perspectives on the fundamentals and the future of OTT streaming.