PBS and Amazon announced that more than 150 local PBS stations and the PBS Kids Channel will launch ad-free over the coming months as a Prime Video FAST offering. This marks the first time this programming will be available for free on a major streaming service, free to customers across the country.
Additionally, PBS Distribution (PBSd), a leading distributor of public media content around the world, will offer two new FAST channels - PBS Drama and PBS Documentaries. These channels will be available exclusively for a limited time on Prime Video starting November 26th. PBSd will also offer a “pop-up” FAST channel featuring a rotating selection of classic PBS shows, starting with "Reading Rainbow"
This launch marks a significant milestone for PBS in delivering a curated lineup of its high-quality programming from member stations to a broader FAST audience, particularly at a time when two in three U.S. viewers use a FAST platform. FAST Channels on Amazon are accessible through Prime Video and Fire TV. Non-Prime users will have free access to PBS programming under the “Watch for Free” section within Prime Video.
PBS Chief Digital and Marketing Officer, Ira Rubenstein referred to the strategy: “PBS member stations will be able to tap into a leading streaming service to offer quality local programming viewers know and love for free. It’s part of the PBS commitment to make trusted content available to all households across as many platforms as possible. We thank Amazon for giving PBS Member Stations a new and exciting way to grow their digital footprint while engaging with audiences old and new," commented.
FInally, Ryan Pirozzi, Head of Prime Video Marketplace was delighted by the expansion of the offer: "We're delighted to bring PBS's trusted, high-quality programming to our FAST channels. We have put together one of the most exciting FAST offerings today for Prime Video customers, driven by a highly personalized experience, and a leading selection of channels featuring fan favorite series, movies, news, sports, and more. We know our customers will be excited to discover that their beloved PBS member stations and two new PBS FAST Channels are now part of our growing offering," stated.