Da Vinci goes FAST on SLINGFree; WildEarth debuts on The Roku Channel

Pet Rescuers

Pay TV edutainment broadcaster Da Vinci is launching a new free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) service in the US on SLINGFree.

Da Vinci’s FAST channel is now available for all SLING users to stream for free. The channel will continue its FAST rollout to streaming TV audiences across America on TCL Channel’s free streaming service available on TCL TVs, powered by Roku and Google smart TV systems.

Da Vinci said it is expanding FAST distribution rapidly, leveraging the trend towards ad-supported streaming and new platforms.

The channel features first-window documentaries, series and TV shows that are all TV-G rated.

Programming spans factual entertainment, scripted dramas, animation and comedy and includes shows such as Science Max, Operation Ouch, Siyaya: Come Wild with Us and The Pet Rescuers. The channel also features exclusive and original in-house productions including Search It Up and the upcoming holiday series Marvellous Makes.

Founder and COO Estelle Lloyd, said: “It’s our mission to support and entertain families by providing a high quality, edutainment experience for co-viewing. Da Vinci streams positivity; and values-driven, feel-good content 24/7. We feel this is especially important in the post-COVID era. These launches are significant as they remove the biggest barrier, the paywall, and expose us to new and fresh audiences. We can reach so many more homes and devices and – for us – that’s significant in fulfilling our purpose. We’re delighted to work with SLING and TCL and very keen to partner with more FAST platforms.”

Separately, nature channel WildEarth has joined The Roku Channel, the home of FAST on the Roku platform in the US. The outfit said the move would further consolidate its goal to become the leading nature and wildlife channel available on FAST platforms.

The WildEarth Channel features live expert-hosted wild animal experiences.

“WildEarth is super proud to be launching as a channel on The Roku Channel. We are excited to immerse viewers in these unique nature experiences which have proven to be so popular around the world,” said Graham Wallington, CEO and co-founder of WildEarth.