Channel 4 launches its first international channels in the United States

British broadcaster Channel 4 has launched its first ever international channels after striking deals with US streaming platforms Tubi, Plex and Xumo Play. Two channels – 4 Adventure and 4 Emergency – will be available on the streaming platforms making hundreds of hours of Channel 4 content, alongside other UK programming, available for free to millions of people in the United States.

“Launching our first ever international channels is a pivotal moment for Channel 4 and opens up a huge range of exciting possibilities. These channels will introduce US audiences to popular shows that embody our core brand values, bringing Channel 4’s unique tone of voice and our rich British culture to the US FAST market. It also provides a great opportunity to further diversify our revenue streams, and with more deals in the pipeline, we are really excited about this new chapter for Channel 4,”  said Alex Wall, Head of Streaming Editorial, UK & International at Channel 4.

4 Adventure will feature a range of reality and documentary programmes centered around survival challenges and endurance such as “Shipwrecked” and “The Island With Bear Grylls.” Meanwhile, 4 Emergency will give US viewers a unique insight into the frontline of British health and emergency response systems featuring programmes such as “24 Hours In A&E,” “Emergency Helicopter Medics,” “Emergency Rescue: Air, Land & Sea,” and “Paramedics: On The Frontline.”

According to the company, the FAST Channels represent an entirely new venture for Channel 4, enabling the broadcaster to export British content and offer more international exposure and opportunities to British indies. “Thanks to Channel 4’s agile operating model, we are able to explore the potential returns and other opportunities in this fast-growing market,”  Wall added.

At the same time, Channel 4 has partnered with Amagi, Broadcast Intelligence and Gracenote to support the technical delivery of its content on the FAST channels. “Channel 4 is delighted to be working with Gracenote whose unparalleled content metadata ensures that we are able to attract viewers and drive engagement with our valuable content on popular FAST services in the United States,”  Wall further commented.