DirecTV Stream launches nearly 250 local PBS stations in the US

DirecTV Stream has completed its nationwide local station rollout in just three months, nearly nine months ahead of its original schedule. “The rapid adoption of PBS on DIRECTV STREAM ensures that we’re delivering some of the best programming to customers across the nation,” said Rob Thun, Chief Content Officer, DirectTV. “Additionally, we’re honored to work hand-in-hand with PBS to amplify diverse voices and creators to help keep our nation’s history alive.”

The platform began launching local PBS stations in mid-November, and has since then added nearly 250 local PBS stations in 198 Nielsen DMAs that reach 99% of total U.S homes. All PBS content will be offered at no additional cost. “PBS’ partnership with DIRECTV STREAM allows our award-winning, educational content to reach more viewers across the country,” said Ira Rubenstein, PBS Chief Digital & Marketing Officer. “PBS and its member stations offer more diverse and localized programming than any other broadcast network, and we are pleased to continue to share this content across a wide array of digital platforms.”

DirecTV has also confirmed one of the premier sponsors for two important upcoming PBS documentaries, "Becoming Frederick Douglass" and "Harriet Tubman: Visions of Freedom." Created by Stanley Nelson, these two films are produced by Maryland Public Television (MPT) in association with Firelight Films. As part of this collaboration, screenings of each film will take place in locations across the United States later this summer – sponsored by DIRECTV – prior to the premieres of the films nationwide on PBS member stations this fall. The company's sponsorship, MPT will develop educational materials available online to students in grades K-12. PBS Kids also recently joined the platforms.

PBS operates multiple local station affiliates in several cities, correlating with DirecTV's efforts, made evident through its PBS stations launch on nine Nielsen DMAs and two local PBS stations into another 33 media markets. With the addition of these PBS affiliates, the platform offers more than 1,000 local ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC and PBS stations, as well as more than 30 regional sports networks from AT&T SportsNet, Bally Sports, NBC Sports, Spectrum SportsNet and top independents Altitude Sports, MSG Networks, MASN, NESN and YES Network.