Roku adds wide range of FAST channels to its platform

Streaming platform Roku has announced a major expansion of its US FAST channel lineup, as it continues to extend its proposition beyond on-demand. Starting today, users of The Roku Channel have access to Spanish-language news programming from NBCUniversal Telemundo; live shopping from QVC and HSN; and the AMC Showcase Channel, which features series like Mad Men and The Walking Dead.

Ashley Hovey

In addition to the above, Roku is also introducing a suite of channels dedicated to food and The Block, a destination for Black movies and entertainment. Among other new channels, there is also Banijay Rights’ All Real, featuring US reality shows from the noughties, and a channel dedicated to classic show Fear Factor. This is the latest example of rights holders adding niche channels to their content distribution models.

CJ ENM is also providing a channel called About K-Content, showcasing the best of Korean television. Personality-led channels joining the platform include Gardening with Monty Don, Jamie Oliver and the Martha Stewart Channel. There is also an emphasis on sport, as the PGA Tour Channel joins the platform. This will feature highlights, round recaps, replays, interviews, original features, and player profiles.

All told, The Roku Channel’s linear FAST offering now tops 350 linear channels. Ashley Hovey, head of The Roku Channel, AVOD, said: “We always strive to bring our users more ways to watch in-demand content. This launch welcomes new programming from a variety of genres, including news and sports, and dedicated channels from beloved personalities and iconic series to The Roku Channel.”