The British Broadcasting Corporation’s expansion into North America continues, as AMC Networks and BBC Studios team up to introduce BBC News as a 24-hour live FAST news channel. Previously available via wide distribution on Cable TV, the Connected TV debut brings programs like BBC News America and BBC Documentaries to a wider audience.
Coverage in the U.S. is highlighted by increased operations out of the Washington D.C. bureau, emphasizing prime-time coverage and national news to cater to both U.S. and international audiences.
Platforms included in the launch are Pluto TV, Samsung TV Plus, Xumo Play, VIZIO WatchFree+, Sling Freestream, and Plex.
Live broadcasts are anchored from the U.K., U.S., and Singapore by the network’s team of Sumi Somaskanda, Caitríona Perry, Matthew Amroliwala, Christian Fraser, Lucy Hockings, Maryam Moshiri, Sally Bundock, and Steve Lai.
BBC Studios Chief Commercial Officer, Global Media & Streaming Tara Maitra said, “This is a significant milestone for the BBC as this launch will more than double the current reach and availability of the BBC News channel in the U.S. at a time when access to independent news and information is more important than ever.”
“We’re proud to launch this channel with the support of so many of the leading CTV/FAST platform partners as we continue to expand the footprint of BBC News and bring the BBC’s journalism to wider audiences in the region.”
AMC Networks Chief Commercial Officer Kim Kelleher added, “What a profoundly meaningful addition to the rapidly growing CTV/FAST space, at a time when access to authoritative and impartial news could never be more important. The BBC is one of the largest, most trusted and comprehensive news-gathering organizations in the world. The arrival of BBC News as a live, 24-hour channel on these free platforms is a landmark moment for global news, our partner platforms, and the entire FAST distribution ecosystem.”
CTV partners like Pluto TV, Xumo, and Samsung TV Plus have expressed enthusiasm for the new offering, with Samsung TV Plus Head of BD & Strategic Partnerships Sarah Nelson saying, “Samsung TV Plus is committed to providing a platform for a variety of global, national, and local news sources to share important updates that our consumers rely on. We’re excited to partner with BBC Studios and AMC Networks to bring this 24-hour live news channel to our viewers, empowering them to stay informed and engaged with the world around them.”
