Roku continued to see operating losses balloon in the fourth quarter to 249.9 million, even as net revenue for the quarter reached 867.1 million and total active accounts crossed 70 million users.
The operating losses represent a 1,270 percent decline compared to the previous year, when Roku reported operating income at 21.4 million during the holiday season. Despite the growing losses, Roku stock surged in after-hours trading by roughly 10 percent due to the company’s better-than-expected revenue performance, which analysts had expected to land closer to 803 million.
Total streaming hours for the quarter rose to 23.9 billion hours, a 23 percent year-over-year increase. Roku’s platform business continued to drive the majority of revenue while the device business — impacted by slower holiday sales — saw an 18 percent decline from the previous year.
For the current first quarter, Roku said it expects the net losses to sustain but shrink to 205 million. Total net revenue is expected to reach 700 million...
The operating losses represent a 1,270 percent decline compared to the previous year, when Roku reported operating income at 21.4 million during the holiday season. Despite the growing losses, Roku stock surged in after-hours trading by roughly 10 percent due to the company’s better-than-expected revenue performance, which analysts had expected to land closer to 803 million.
Total streaming hours for the quarter rose to 23.9 billion hours, a 23 percent year-over-year increase. Roku’s platform business continued to drive the majority of revenue while the device business — impacted by slower holiday sales — saw an 18 percent decline from the previous year.
For the current first quarter, Roku said it expects the net losses to sustain but shrink to 205 million. Total net revenue is expected to reach 700 million...
- 2/15/2023
- by J. Clara Chan
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Warner Bros. Discovery recently announced that they would be licensing bundles of their shows to “third-party free, ad-supported streaming services”… and now The Hollywood Reporter has revealed the details of a couple of those licensing deals. While Warner Bros. Discovery has been making the news a lot in recent months as they remove titles from their own HBO Max streaming service, content from the company is now set to reach both Tubi and Roku.
The Hollywood Reporter explains, “Tubi will add more than 225 free channels from Wbd and 14 WB-branded Fast channels, including the launch of three brand-specific channels, WB TV Reality, WB TV Series and WB TV Family, to feature some of Wbd’s popular content, including all seasons of Westworld, Raised by Wolves, Legendary, FBoy Island, The Nevers, Finding Magic Mike, Head of the Class and The Time Traveler’s Wife.” Warner Bros. Discovery titles will start showing up on Tubi in February.
The Hollywood Reporter explains, “Tubi will add more than 225 free channels from Wbd and 14 WB-branded Fast channels, including the launch of three brand-specific channels, WB TV Reality, WB TV Series and WB TV Family, to feature some of Wbd’s popular content, including all seasons of Westworld, Raised by Wolves, Legendary, FBoy Island, The Nevers, Finding Magic Mike, Head of the Class and The Time Traveler’s Wife.” Warner Bros. Discovery titles will start showing up on Tubi in February.
- 1/31/2023
- by Cody Hamman
- JoBlo.com
Warner Bros. Discovery’s plan to distribute Westworld and other key shows via Fast channels has materialized.
Deals have been struck with Roku and Tubi to launch branded channels this year, bringing more than 2,000 hours of programs in total to each service.
Deadline had reported Wbd was likely to sell Westworld and other key titles to Fast channel providers in December, when it was pulled from HBO Max. That came amid a financial review of the HBO portfolio. Other shows, including The Nevers, Raised By Wolves and F-Boy Island were pulled at the same time, as Wbd CEO David Zaslav eyed new ways to monetize his catalog. Tubi noted The Nevers is included in its agreement.
Following the deals, Westworld, The Bachelor, Cake Boss, Say Yes to the Dress and F-Boy Island will all join The Roku Channel in the spring through Warner Bros-branded channels, while Fox Corp-owned Tubi...
Deals have been struck with Roku and Tubi to launch branded channels this year, bringing more than 2,000 hours of programs in total to each service.
Deadline had reported Wbd was likely to sell Westworld and other key titles to Fast channel providers in December, when it was pulled from HBO Max. That came amid a financial review of the HBO portfolio. Other shows, including The Nevers, Raised By Wolves and F-Boy Island were pulled at the same time, as Wbd CEO David Zaslav eyed new ways to monetize his catalog. Tubi noted The Nevers is included in its agreement.
Following the deals, Westworld, The Bachelor, Cake Boss, Say Yes to the Dress and F-Boy Island will all join The Roku Channel in the spring through Warner Bros-branded channels, while Fox Corp-owned Tubi...
- 1/31/2023
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Warner Bros Discovery Inc. has signed deals with Roku Inc. and Tubi to license 2,000 hours of content and launch a series of channels to carry its movies and television shows, the companies said Tuesday.
The pact will see hits like “Westworld” and the reality series “Cake Boss” available for free, part of Warner Bros. Discovery’s efforts to monetize its vast library of movies and television shows.
Roku said in a release that the content comes from HBO, HBO Max, Discovery Channel, HGTV, Food Network, TLC, Warner Bros. Pictures and Warner Bros. Television. Both Roku and Tubi, which is owned by Fox Corp., will have the same Fast content, Roku said, but did not provide details.
Tubi said it will launch 11 channels featuring various genres with offerings like “WB Sweet Escapes,” which will feature baking competitions, and others organized by types of programming, such as series, reality shows and family-themed content.
The pact will see hits like “Westworld” and the reality series “Cake Boss” available for free, part of Warner Bros. Discovery’s efforts to monetize its vast library of movies and television shows.
Roku said in a release that the content comes from HBO, HBO Max, Discovery Channel, HGTV, Food Network, TLC, Warner Bros. Pictures and Warner Bros. Television. Both Roku and Tubi, which is owned by Fox Corp., will have the same Fast content, Roku said, but did not provide details.
Tubi said it will launch 11 channels featuring various genres with offerings like “WB Sweet Escapes,” which will feature baking competitions, and others organized by types of programming, such as series, reality shows and family-themed content.
- 1/31/2023
- by Eileen AJ Connelly
- The Wrap
Warner Bros. Discovery has signed content deals with Roku and Tubi for a selection of its free, ad-supported channels.
The Fox-owned Tubi will add more than 225 advertising video-on-demand titles from Wbd and 14 WB-branded Fast channels, including the launch of three brand-specific channels, WB TV Reality, WB TV Series and WB TV Family, to feature some of Wbd’s popular content, including all seasons of Westworld, Raised by Wolves, Legendary, FBoy Island, The Nevers, Finding Magic Mike, Head of the Class and The Time Traveler’s Wife. The titles will begin rolling out in February.
Roku has made a similar deal with Wbd and plans to create Wbd-branded channels for titles such as Westworld, The Bachelor, Cake Boss, Say Yes to the Dress and F-Boy Island, as well as about 2,000 hours of on-demand library programming. The channels will launch The Roku Channel in spring 2023.
In December, Wbd announced that it would...
The Fox-owned Tubi will add more than 225 advertising video-on-demand titles from Wbd and 14 WB-branded Fast channels, including the launch of three brand-specific channels, WB TV Reality, WB TV Series and WB TV Family, to feature some of Wbd’s popular content, including all seasons of Westworld, Raised by Wolves, Legendary, FBoy Island, The Nevers, Finding Magic Mike, Head of the Class and The Time Traveler’s Wife. The titles will begin rolling out in February.
Roku has made a similar deal with Wbd and plans to create Wbd-branded channels for titles such as Westworld, The Bachelor, Cake Boss, Say Yes to the Dress and F-Boy Island, as well as about 2,000 hours of on-demand library programming. The channels will launch The Roku Channel in spring 2023.
In December, Wbd announced that it would...
- 1/31/2023
- by Caitlin Huston
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Warner Bros. Discovery is finally going Fast — in stages.
Before the company, formed from the April 2022 merger of WarnerMedia and Discovery, Inc., launches its own free, ad-supported streaming television app, some of Wbd’s owned content — like “Westworld,” “F-Boy Island,” and more — will be packaged into Warner Bros.-branded Fast channels on The Roku Channel and Fox’s Tubi. The channels will launch in February on Tubi, and this “spring” on The Roku Channel.
We do not have a target date for Wbd’s own standalone Fast app, but a person with knowledge of the plans tells IndieWire it is still coming.
“The Bachelor,” “Cake Boss,” and “Say Yes to the Dress” are among the other popular TV series coming to The Roku Channel and Tubi. Lots of library material — about 2,000 hours’ worth — including 90 movies, will also migrate to those free services. Warner Bros. Discovery owns the HBO, HBO Max,...
Before the company, formed from the April 2022 merger of WarnerMedia and Discovery, Inc., launches its own free, ad-supported streaming television app, some of Wbd’s owned content — like “Westworld,” “F-Boy Island,” and more — will be packaged into Warner Bros.-branded Fast channels on The Roku Channel and Fox’s Tubi. The channels will launch in February on Tubi, and this “spring” on The Roku Channel.
We do not have a target date for Wbd’s own standalone Fast app, but a person with knowledge of the plans tells IndieWire it is still coming.
“The Bachelor,” “Cake Boss,” and “Say Yes to the Dress” are among the other popular TV series coming to The Roku Channel and Tubi. Lots of library material — about 2,000 hours’ worth — including 90 movies, will also migrate to those free services. Warner Bros. Discovery owns the HBO, HBO Max,...
- 1/31/2023
- by Tony Maglio
- Indiewire
Roku is set to bring a big bucket of free, ad-supported content from Warner Bros. Discovery to the Roku Channel this spring.
Wbd’s new Fast channels on Roku will feature titles from across the media company’s portfolio, including “Westworld,” “The Bachelor,” “Cake Boss,” “Say Yes to the Dress” and “F-Boy Island.” In addition, Roku Channel will add about 2,000 hours of on-demand content featuring hundreds of Warner Bros. Discovery TV series and movies under the pact. The content will come from Wbd’s HBO, HBO Max, Discovery Channel, HGTV, Food Network, TLC, Warner Bros. Pictures, Warner Bros. Television and more.
Rob Holmes, vice president, programming, Roku: “As Fast continues to explode in popularity amongst cord-cutters, we’re seeing content players increasingly shift their focus towards capturing this audience, by bringing some of their best stuff to Fast. The rapid expansion of premium content on Fast is a win for...
Wbd’s new Fast channels on Roku will feature titles from across the media company’s portfolio, including “Westworld,” “The Bachelor,” “Cake Boss,” “Say Yes to the Dress” and “F-Boy Island.” In addition, Roku Channel will add about 2,000 hours of on-demand content featuring hundreds of Warner Bros. Discovery TV series and movies under the pact. The content will come from Wbd’s HBO, HBO Max, Discovery Channel, HGTV, Food Network, TLC, Warner Bros. Pictures, Warner Bros. Television and more.
Rob Holmes, vice president, programming, Roku: “As Fast continues to explode in popularity amongst cord-cutters, we’re seeing content players increasingly shift their focus towards capturing this audience, by bringing some of their best stuff to Fast. The rapid expansion of premium content on Fast is a win for...
- 1/31/2023
- by Todd Spangler
- Variety Film + TV
David Eilenberg, who joined Roku last April to head up original programming at the streaming company, has been upped to head of content, Deadline has confirmed.
Eilenberg is well-known in creative circles, having been an exec at ITV, Turner and Mark Burnett’s company during the course of his career. With his elevation, VP of Programming Rob Holmes, who had been with the company for about six years and helped steer initiatives like the launch of the Roku Channel and the acquisition of programming from Quibi, has exited the company.
The moves are the first significant ones in the executive suite since former Fox and AMC Networks exec Charlie Collier arrived last year as president of Roku Media.
Eilenberg’s elevation will bring content at Roku Originals and Roku Studios under one leader. Roku as a company is confronting a soft ad market and overall financial constraints as it looks...
Eilenberg is well-known in creative circles, having been an exec at ITV, Turner and Mark Burnett’s company during the course of his career. With his elevation, VP of Programming Rob Holmes, who had been with the company for about six years and helped steer initiatives like the launch of the Roku Channel and the acquisition of programming from Quibi, has exited the company.
The moves are the first significant ones in the executive suite since former Fox and AMC Networks exec Charlie Collier arrived last year as president of Roku Media.
Eilenberg’s elevation will bring content at Roku Originals and Roku Studios under one leader. Roku as a company is confronting a soft ad market and overall financial constraints as it looks...
- 1/24/2023
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
Roku Media President Charlie Collier has implemented his first major executive shake-up since joining the company from Fox Entertainment in November, elevating David Eilenberg to oversee content across the media division, a Roku spokesperson confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter.
Eilenberg will succeed Rob Holmes, who currently serves as vp programming and is set to depart in March after six years at Roku. During that time, Holmes helped oversee the launch of The Roku Channel and led the company’s transition into original content. In a memo to staff announcing the changes, obtained by THR, Collier said Holmes would focus on “ongoing strategic projects” before his departure. “He’s a partner and friend to many of us, and to be clear, this announcement is by no means Rob’s final send-off; there will be more on Rob and his many contributions in the days ahead. For now, I will simply say thank you,...
Eilenberg will succeed Rob Holmes, who currently serves as vp programming and is set to depart in March after six years at Roku. During that time, Holmes helped oversee the launch of The Roku Channel and led the company’s transition into original content. In a memo to staff announcing the changes, obtained by THR, Collier said Holmes would focus on “ongoing strategic projects” before his departure. “He’s a partner and friend to many of us, and to be clear, this announcement is by no means Rob’s final send-off; there will be more on Rob and his many contributions in the days ahead. For now, I will simply say thank you,...
- 1/24/2023
- by J. Clara Chan
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Roku leadership is experiencing its first big shakeup under new chief Charlie Collier, with current vice president of programming Rob Holmes deciding to depart the company in March after six years, and head of originals, David Eilenberg, being promoted to head of content across all of Roku Media.
A Turner and ITV Studios vet, Eilenberg’s elevation will bring content at Roku Originals and Roku Studios under one leader, and signals Collier’s focus on Roku’s platform advantages and creative as it enters its next stage of evolution as a media company that has racked up WGA, DGA and PGA nominations, as well as its first Critics’ Choice wins, in recent months — but also experienced a severe stock drop on poor earnings results and outlook.
Eilenberg joined Roku in March 2022, coming into his then-role ahead of former Fox Entertainment CEO Collier’s appointment as president of Roku Media last October.
A Turner and ITV Studios vet, Eilenberg’s elevation will bring content at Roku Originals and Roku Studios under one leader, and signals Collier’s focus on Roku’s platform advantages and creative as it enters its next stage of evolution as a media company that has racked up WGA, DGA and PGA nominations, as well as its first Critics’ Choice wins, in recent months — but also experienced a severe stock drop on poor earnings results and outlook.
Eilenberg joined Roku in March 2022, coming into his then-role ahead of former Fox Entertainment CEO Collier’s appointment as president of Roku Media last October.
- 1/24/2023
- by Jennifer Maas
- Variety Film + TV
Roku is getting into the daytime talk show space — sort of. Starting December 1, the Roku Channel will stream full episodes of “The Jennifer Hudson Show,” a Warner Bros. and Telepictures syndicated series, the day after they air on linear television. The deal makes Roku the exclusive streaming home to the Egot winner’s new talk series; all previously aired episodes of the show are now available to stream for free on The Roku Channel.
Hudson’s talk show, a mix of celebrity interviews, topical stories, community heroes, viral sensations, and yes, music, has been a pretty strong freshman performer. Among the six new syndicated strips in their first run, “The Jennifer Hudson Show” is a close second to “Sherri,” averaging a 0.6 household rating versus Sherri Shepherd’s 0.7, according to Nielsen data. Shepherd, an alum of “The View,” basically took over for Wendy Williams last season and launched her own new show this fall.
Hudson’s talk show, a mix of celebrity interviews, topical stories, community heroes, viral sensations, and yes, music, has been a pretty strong freshman performer. Among the six new syndicated strips in their first run, “The Jennifer Hudson Show” is a close second to “Sherri,” averaging a 0.6 household rating versus Sherri Shepherd’s 0.7, according to Nielsen data. Shepherd, an alum of “The View,” basically took over for Wendy Williams last season and launched her own new show this fall.
- 12/1/2022
- by Tony Maglio
- Indiewire
The Roku Channel has now become the exclusive AVOD streaming home for The Jennifer Hudson Show.
All previously aired episodes are available beginning Thursday, and new episodes will hit the platform the day after they air.
“The authentic spirit that Jennifer Hudson brings to each episode of the series has already won over the hearts of audiences across the country, and we look forward to extending its viewership potential further to the millions of streamers reached by The Roku Channel,” said Rob Holmes, VP, Programming, Roku.
Finding additional avenues on other platforms has become crucial for high-end syndicated talk shows to survive in the current economic environment, which has been increasingly challanging for first-run fare.
Warner Bros.’ freshman The Jennifer Hudson Show got to a respectable start this fall and is currently looking good to be renewed for Season 2 by its core station group, the Fox Stations.
Related Story Roku...
All previously aired episodes are available beginning Thursday, and new episodes will hit the platform the day after they air.
“The authentic spirit that Jennifer Hudson brings to each episode of the series has already won over the hearts of audiences across the country, and we look forward to extending its viewership potential further to the millions of streamers reached by The Roku Channel,” said Rob Holmes, VP, Programming, Roku.
Finding additional avenues on other platforms has become crucial for high-end syndicated talk shows to survive in the current economic environment, which has been increasingly challanging for first-run fare.
Warner Bros.’ freshman The Jennifer Hudson Show got to a respectable start this fall and is currently looking good to be renewed for Season 2 by its core station group, the Fox Stations.
Related Story Roku...
- 12/1/2022
- by Katie Campione
- Deadline Film + TV
Charlie Collier, who oversaw AMC Networks in its “Mad Men,” “Breaking Bad,” and “The Walking Dead” heyday, is taking his talents to Roku to serve as president of Roku Media. A job description might say he’s bridging the gaps between advertising, content, and consumers across Roku’s streaming platform, including The Roku Channel.
Those who know Collier see it a little differently. “People are going to want to talk to Roku now because they want to talk to Charlie,” said Michael Kassan, a media and advertising consultant and Medialink principal. “Charlie is a star.”
Collier currently leads Fox’s broadcast network, its reality programming, and its studios. He does not oversee the company’s news and sports segments, and streaming service Tubi is still technically run on a day-to-day basis by founder Farhad Massoudi. At Roku, Collier gets to really be the man; the promise of all that oversight,...
Those who know Collier see it a little differently. “People are going to want to talk to Roku now because they want to talk to Charlie,” said Michael Kassan, a media and advertising consultant and Medialink principal. “Charlie is a star.”
Collier currently leads Fox’s broadcast network, its reality programming, and its studios. He does not oversee the company’s news and sports segments, and streaming service Tubi is still technically run on a day-to-day basis by founder Farhad Massoudi. At Roku, Collier gets to really be the man; the promise of all that oversight,...
- 9/29/2022
- by Tony Maglio
- Indiewire
Paramount+ will launch as a premium subscription within The Roku Channel later this month, Roku Inc. announced Wednesday. The partnership will provide The Roku Channel users with direct access to Paramount+’s content library through either its ad-supported plan (4.99 monthly) or its premium ad-free plan (9.99 monthly).
Within the Paramount+ experience on Premium Subscriptions, Roku has also created a Live TV Guide for all Paramount+ live content, marking the first time a programming guide for a Premium Subscription partner has been created. Consumers will now be able to access Paramount+ live content such the NFL on CBS and UEFA, as well as breaking news from CBS News Network and entertainment news from Entertainment Tonight. Premium subscribers also have access to their local live CBS station. The addition of Paramount+ to The Roku Channel will also mark the first time that live sports content will be available for streamers within Premium Subscriptions.
Within the Paramount+ experience on Premium Subscriptions, Roku has also created a Live TV Guide for all Paramount+ live content, marking the first time a programming guide for a Premium Subscription partner has been created. Consumers will now be able to access Paramount+ live content such the NFL on CBS and UEFA, as well as breaking news from CBS News Network and entertainment news from Entertainment Tonight. Premium subscribers also have access to their local live CBS station. The addition of Paramount+ to The Roku Channel will also mark the first time that live sports content will be available for streamers within Premium Subscriptions.
- 8/3/2022
- by Brandon Katz
- The Wrap
Roku will launch Paramount+ as a premium subscription within the Roku Channel later this month, including a dedicated TV guide for all Paramount+ live content — its first for a premium partner. It’s also the first time live sports will be available within premium subscriptions.
Users can subscribe to the Paramount+ ad-supported (4.99) or ad-free (9.99) monthly offerings. The guide will let consumers access Paramount+ live content from the NFL on CBS, UEFA, CBS News and Entertainment Tonight, and watch their local live CBS station.
The Roku Channel offers premium subscriptions from over 50 services, recently adding Discovery+ ad-supported and ad-free versions to the lineup. It’s a growing hub for originals, about 80,000 film and TV titles on demand, and 300+ live, linear channels as users look for easier access to content they’re used to from legacy pay TV.
“We’re thrilled to partner with Paramount+ in its continued growth, and for the...
Users can subscribe to the Paramount+ ad-supported (4.99) or ad-free (9.99) monthly offerings. The guide will let consumers access Paramount+ live content from the NFL on CBS, UEFA, CBS News and Entertainment Tonight, and watch their local live CBS station.
The Roku Channel offers premium subscriptions from over 50 services, recently adding Discovery+ ad-supported and ad-free versions to the lineup. It’s a growing hub for originals, about 80,000 film and TV titles on demand, and 300+ live, linear channels as users look for easier access to content they’re used to from legacy pay TV.
“We’re thrilled to partner with Paramount+ in its continued growth, and for the...
- 8/3/2022
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
David Eilenberg, the chief creative officer at ITV America, is joining Roku in April as the company’s Head of Originals, Roku said Friday. He’ll oversee original content for Roku’s free ad-supported streaming service The Roku Channel.
Eilenberg will report to Roku programming VP Rob Holmes.
“Throughout his remarkable career, David has pioneered compelling television that has resonated with audiences around the world,” Holmes said in a statement. “With millions of streamers demonstrating there is a strong appetite for original programming on The Roku Channel, it is the perfect time to welcome one of the most experienced and well-respected creative executives in the business to oversee the next exciting phase for Roku Originals, while also helping us further establish The Roku Channel as a destination for users to watch great free original programming and advertisers to reach scaled audiences only available in streaming.”
“I am thrilled and honored...
Eilenberg will report to Roku programming VP Rob Holmes.
“Throughout his remarkable career, David has pioneered compelling television that has resonated with audiences around the world,” Holmes said in a statement. “With millions of streamers demonstrating there is a strong appetite for original programming on The Roku Channel, it is the perfect time to welcome one of the most experienced and well-respected creative executives in the business to oversee the next exciting phase for Roku Originals, while also helping us further establish The Roku Channel as a destination for users to watch great free original programming and advertisers to reach scaled audiences only available in streaming.”
“I am thrilled and honored...
- 3/4/2022
- by Sharon Knolle
- The Wrap
NBC has partnered with Studio Lambert to bring “Million Dollar Island” to the U.S.
In “Million Dollar Island,” based on Talpa’s international adventure reality format, 100 contestants compete and build alliances to stay on a remote desert island for up to 50 days — in hopes of winning their share of a $1 million prize. Each contestant is given a bracelet worth $10,000, which they gain and lose during the show’s challenges. If and when a player leaves the island, they must choose who will receive their money
“We’re excited to partner with a powerhouse team to bring this fresh and bold social experiment to NBC,” Jenny Groom, executive vice president for alternative programming and development at NBC, said in a statement. “This series is sure to entertain with ever-evolving alliances, trust, deceit and the ultimate will to survive.”
“Million Dollar Island” is executive produced by Studio Lambert’s Stephen Lambert,...
In “Million Dollar Island,” based on Talpa’s international adventure reality format, 100 contestants compete and build alliances to stay on a remote desert island for up to 50 days — in hopes of winning their share of a $1 million prize. Each contestant is given a bracelet worth $10,000, which they gain and lose during the show’s challenges. If and when a player leaves the island, they must choose who will receive their money
“We’re excited to partner with a powerhouse team to bring this fresh and bold social experiment to NBC,” Jenny Groom, executive vice president for alternative programming and development at NBC, said in a statement. “This series is sure to entertain with ever-evolving alliances, trust, deceit and the ultimate will to survive.”
“Million Dollar Island” is executive produced by Studio Lambert’s Stephen Lambert,...
- 3/4/2022
- by Wyatte Grantham-Philips and Wilson Chapman
- Variety Film + TV
Updates earlier exclusive, with quotes:: It’s official. David Eilenberg is returning to being a buyer.
The Chief Creative Officer of ITV America is joining Roku as its Head of Originals.
ilenberg will join in April and report to Rob Holmes, VP Programming at Roku.
It comes as the streaming service has been ramping up the amount of exclusive and original content that it develops and commissions.
Last year, Roku acquired Quibi’s library of original content and launched dozens of short-form shows on The Roku Channel, including a number that never launched on the Jeffrey Katzenberg-led service. In addition, it renewed a number of shows for second seasons.
But outside of the Quibi deal, the service, which essentially began as a streaming aggregator, has plans to bolster its pipeline of original series and films even further with plans to order around 50 series and films over the next two years.
The Chief Creative Officer of ITV America is joining Roku as its Head of Originals.
ilenberg will join in April and report to Rob Holmes, VP Programming at Roku.
It comes as the streaming service has been ramping up the amount of exclusive and original content that it develops and commissions.
Last year, Roku acquired Quibi’s library of original content and launched dozens of short-form shows on The Roku Channel, including a number that never launched on the Jeffrey Katzenberg-led service. In addition, it renewed a number of shows for second seasons.
But outside of the Quibi deal, the service, which essentially began as a streaming aggregator, has plans to bolster its pipeline of original series and films even further with plans to order around 50 series and films over the next two years.
- 3/4/2022
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
The El Rey Network, which is getting set to make a rare transition from cable TV to free streaming, has set a deal for crucial real estate on the Roku Channel.
Starting tomorrow, the Robert Rodriguez-founded network, will start streaming as a 24-7 linear offering on the Roku Channel, one of more than 190 on the free outlet. Launched in 2013 as a result of the agreement reached by Comcast and NBCUniversal with regulators yielding new commitments to diverse programming options, El Rey targeted young, English-speaking Latino viewers. It wound down its nearly decade-long run on traditional pay-tv at the end of 2020, having peaked at 40 million households. While other channels have gone dark on cable and returned as digital properties, El Rey is one of the first to attempt such a shift during the streaming era.
The Roku Channel, which has 40,000 on-demand film and TV titles in addition to its linear offerings,...
Starting tomorrow, the Robert Rodriguez-founded network, will start streaming as a 24-7 linear offering on the Roku Channel, one of more than 190 on the free outlet. Launched in 2013 as a result of the agreement reached by Comcast and NBCUniversal with regulators yielding new commitments to diverse programming options, El Rey targeted young, English-speaking Latino viewers. It wound down its nearly decade-long run on traditional pay-tv at the end of 2020, having peaked at 40 million households. While other channels have gone dark on cable and returned as digital properties, El Rey is one of the first to attempt such a shift during the streaming era.
The Roku Channel, which has 40,000 on-demand film and TV titles in addition to its linear offerings,...
- 8/16/2021
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
Byron Allen can see a straight line from the current streaming era to the industrial revolution more than 100 years ago.
“What fueled that was gas and oil. Today it’s the digital revolution, and what’s fueling that is content, content, content, and the way we deliver it to them,” Allen, the TV personality and founder and CEO of Allen Media Group, said Thursday during TheGrill: Focus on Streaming. “Whether it’s SVOD or AVOD or a combination of both, the consumer just has to have that optionality and that’s what they’re gravitating towards.”
The streaming space is uber-competitive, with new entrants jumping in to mimic another era of American history: the Gold Rush. Even so, Allen predicts a bright future: “In the AVOD space, you’re going to see a lot of winners. The dollars that are being allocated to AVOD right now are probably about $26 billion or so.
“What fueled that was gas and oil. Today it’s the digital revolution, and what’s fueling that is content, content, content, and the way we deliver it to them,” Allen, the TV personality and founder and CEO of Allen Media Group, said Thursday during TheGrill: Focus on Streaming. “Whether it’s SVOD or AVOD or a combination of both, the consumer just has to have that optionality and that’s what they’re gravitating towards.”
The streaming space is uber-competitive, with new entrants jumping in to mimic another era of American history: the Gold Rush. Even so, Allen predicts a bright future: “In the AVOD space, you’re going to see a lot of winners. The dollars that are being allocated to AVOD right now are probably about $26 billion or so.
- 6/24/2021
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
Top executives from Discovery+, Roku, FilmRise and Entertainment Studios are live-streaming at TheGrill: Focus On Streaming on June 24, as part of TheWrap’s Grill event series. The conference, presented by FilmRise, brings together producers, content producers and platform executives to discuss shifts in consumer behavior, consolidation and the platforms that support streaming.
FilmRise CEO Danny Fisher
The Wrap Pro event is free during the livestream and can be accessed here.
The conference kicks off at 9 a.m. Pt with a Spotlight Conversation between FilmRise founder & CEO Danny Fisher and TheWrap’s founder & editor-in-chief Sharon Waxman. With over 40,000 hours of content in its library, FilmRise is the largest third-party provider of content to streaming platforms. With clients including Amazon Prime, Peacock, IMDb TV, Roku and more, Fisher has created an algorithm to predict audience behavior and streaming traffic. This session will take a deep-dive into these emerging industry trends, the future of AVOD,...
FilmRise CEO Danny Fisher
The Wrap Pro event is free during the livestream and can be accessed here.
The conference kicks off at 9 a.m. Pt with a Spotlight Conversation between FilmRise founder & CEO Danny Fisher and TheWrap’s founder & editor-in-chief Sharon Waxman. With over 40,000 hours of content in its library, FilmRise is the largest third-party provider of content to streaming platforms. With clients including Amazon Prime, Peacock, IMDb TV, Roku and more, Fisher has created an algorithm to predict audience behavior and streaming traffic. This session will take a deep-dive into these emerging industry trends, the future of AVOD,...
- 6/24/2021
- by Emily Vogel
- The Wrap
Roku says its pickup of the 75-plus shows from Quibi, the short-lived premium mobile entertainment startup that went belly-up last year, has paid off beyond its expectations. But as with other streaming companies, Roku isn’t divulging specific metrics for the Quibi programming, which it rebranded as Roku Originals.
According to Roku, more active accounts streamed a Roku Original in the first two weeks on the Roku Channel than the number of Quibi accounts did on Quibi over the brief nine months of the app’s lifetime.
Roku’s claim that more people have already watched Quibi shows on its platform than on Quibi’s now-defunct app seems credible — but it’s not a particularly high bar.
Jeffrey Katzenberg-founded Quibi launched in April 2020, at the front end of the Covid pandemic. In October, the richly funded company — which had banked nearly $1.8 billion from major studios and other investors — said...
According to Roku, more active accounts streamed a Roku Original in the first two weeks on the Roku Channel than the number of Quibi accounts did on Quibi over the brief nine months of the app’s lifetime.
Roku’s claim that more people have already watched Quibi shows on its platform than on Quibi’s now-defunct app seems credible — but it’s not a particularly high bar.
Jeffrey Katzenberg-founded Quibi launched in April 2020, at the front end of the Covid pandemic. In October, the richly funded company — which had banked nearly $1.8 billion from major studios and other investors — said...
- 6/18/2021
- by Todd Spangler
- Variety Film + TV
Roku has revealed viewership data for its original programming, much of which was powered by the acquisition of Quibi’s library last January.
Roku Originals launched on May 20, with a lineup of about 30 shows initially made for Quibi, Jeffrey Katzenberg’s mobile streaming service. From launch through June 3, more Roku active accounts streamed a Roku Original than the number of Quibi accounts that streamed Quibi shows during the start-up’s entire run.
Launched in April 2020 with $1.75 billion in financing, Quibi failed to gain traction with its subscription mobile service, shuttering by the fall. Roku had already been in discussions with Quibi about potential distribution, as the company saw its mobile-only focus floundering, in part due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Shows featuring Kevin Hart, Anna Kendrick, Jennifer Lopez and other stars were made in a shortened episodic format befitting Quibi’s name, which is short for “quick bites.” Those seven-to-10-minute...
Roku Originals launched on May 20, with a lineup of about 30 shows initially made for Quibi, Jeffrey Katzenberg’s mobile streaming service. From launch through June 3, more Roku active accounts streamed a Roku Original than the number of Quibi accounts that streamed Quibi shows during the start-up’s entire run.
Launched in April 2020 with $1.75 billion in financing, Quibi failed to gain traction with its subscription mobile service, shuttering by the fall. Roku had already been in discussions with Quibi about potential distribution, as the company saw its mobile-only focus floundering, in part due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Shows featuring Kevin Hart, Anna Kendrick, Jennifer Lopez and other stars were made in a shortened episodic format befitting Quibi’s name, which is short for “quick bites.” Those seven-to-10-minute...
- 6/18/2021
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
Kevin Hart’s comedy action series Die Hart, which debuted last year on short-lived streaming service Quibi before being resurrected this year as a Roku Original, has been renewed for a second season.
The show is the first Roku Original to get a renewal. The streaming purveyor used the dozens of Quibi shows it acquired in January to launch its original programming banner, with shows all streaming on the free, ad-supported Roku Channel. The first 30 Quibi alumni debuted May 20.
The second outing of the show will be titled Die Harter. Hart will return as star and exec producer but the rest of the cast will be announced down the line. John Travolta, Nathalie Emmanuel, Josh Hartnett and Jean Reno appeared alongside Hart in the first season.
Hart’s Laugh Out Loud returns as the show’s producer in partnership with Roku.
In the show, Hart plays a version of himself,...
The show is the first Roku Original to get a renewal. The streaming purveyor used the dozens of Quibi shows it acquired in January to launch its original programming banner, with shows all streaming on the free, ad-supported Roku Channel. The first 30 Quibi alumni debuted May 20.
The second outing of the show will be titled Die Harter. Hart will return as star and exec producer but the rest of the cast will be announced down the line. John Travolta, Nathalie Emmanuel, Josh Hartnett and Jean Reno appeared alongside Hart in the first season.
Hart’s Laugh Out Loud returns as the show’s producer in partnership with Roku.
In the show, Hart plays a version of himself,...
- 6/8/2021
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
Kevin Hart action-comedy series “Die Hart” has officially been renewed for a second season — again.
Roku announced that it has ordered Season 2 of “Die Hart,” which naturally will be titled “Die Harter,” as an exclusive for the free, ad-supported Roku Channel. “It’s been great to see the incredible response to ‘Die Hart’ on the Roku Channel,” Hart said in a statement. “We’re excited to be partnering with Roku to bring another season to its audience.”
The show is the first former Quibi original that Roku is renewing. Actually, “Die Hart” had already been picked up for a second season by Quibi last September, but that came about a month before the richly funded Jeffrey Katzenberg-led mobile subscription-video startup announced that it was shutting down. In January 2021, Roku paid substantially less than $100 million to snap up the assets of Quibi, a deal that included more than 75 shows.
On...
Roku announced that it has ordered Season 2 of “Die Hart,” which naturally will be titled “Die Harter,” as an exclusive for the free, ad-supported Roku Channel. “It’s been great to see the incredible response to ‘Die Hart’ on the Roku Channel,” Hart said in a statement. “We’re excited to be partnering with Roku to bring another season to its audience.”
The show is the first former Quibi original that Roku is renewing. Actually, “Die Hart” had already been picked up for a second season by Quibi last September, but that came about a month before the richly funded Jeffrey Katzenberg-led mobile subscription-video startup announced that it was shutting down. In January 2021, Roku paid substantially less than $100 million to snap up the assets of Quibi, a deal that included more than 75 shows.
On...
- 6/8/2021
- by Todd Spangler
- Variety Film + TV
Roku on Tuesday said it’s renewed Kevin Hart’s action-comedy series “Die Hart” — one of several shows the company acquired from Quibi, Jeffrey Katzenberg’s now-defunct mobile streaming service — for a second season. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
“It’s been great to see the incredible response to ‘Die Hart’ on The Roku Channel,” Hart said in a statement. “We’re excited to be partnering with Roku to bring another season to its audience.”
The series is the first Roku Original to be renewed, and comes after the show pulled in a “record number of households streaming the series” the weekend following its May 20 debut. (Company executives declined to share specific streaming figures.) The new season, continuing its homage to the “Die Hard” franchise, will be dubbed “Die Harter.”
“This was not a difficult decision to make,” Colin Davis, Roku’s head of original scripted programming, told TheWrap.
“It’s been great to see the incredible response to ‘Die Hart’ on The Roku Channel,” Hart said in a statement. “We’re excited to be partnering with Roku to bring another season to its audience.”
The series is the first Roku Original to be renewed, and comes after the show pulled in a “record number of households streaming the series” the weekend following its May 20 debut. (Company executives declined to share specific streaming figures.) The new season, continuing its homage to the “Die Hard” franchise, will be dubbed “Die Harter.”
“This was not a difficult decision to make,” Colin Davis, Roku’s head of original scripted programming, told TheWrap.
- 6/8/2021
- by Sean Burch
- The Wrap
Roku and Saban Films have struck a deal in which select films from Saban’s 2021 slate will stream on the Roku Channel within three months after its theatrical run.
The films will stream for free on Roku’s ad-supported Roku Channel, and not only is it yet another shift in the windows for theatrical films, it’s also the first pay-one licensing agreement for Roku. And the titles will be available in the U.S. and Canada after a theatrical run and a home entertainment release.
The first film to premiere under the agreement will be “Echo Boomers,” which stars Patrick Schwarzenegger and Michael Shannon and will release on June 15. Other titles included are “Happily” with Joel McHale, “Percy Vs Goliath” (US only) with Christopher Walken, Christina Ricci and Zach Braff and “Under the Stadium Lights” with Laurence Fishburne. More titles will be announced at a later date.
“Streaming has...
The films will stream for free on Roku’s ad-supported Roku Channel, and not only is it yet another shift in the windows for theatrical films, it’s also the first pay-one licensing agreement for Roku. And the titles will be available in the U.S. and Canada after a theatrical run and a home entertainment release.
The first film to premiere under the agreement will be “Echo Boomers,” which stars Patrick Schwarzenegger and Michael Shannon and will release on June 15. Other titles included are “Happily” with Joel McHale, “Percy Vs Goliath” (US only) with Christopher Walken, Christina Ricci and Zach Braff and “Under the Stadium Lights” with Laurence Fishburne. More titles will be announced at a later date.
“Streaming has...
- 5/27/2021
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Roku and Saban Films have added the latest twist to fast-evolving movie release strategies, setting a pay-1 rights deal for several titles that will stream on the Roku Channel.
The pact will deliver films from Saban’s 2021 slate to Roku Channel viewers in the U.S. and Canada within as few as three months after theatrical and home entertainment release. They will be available for free, with limited commercial breaks.
Echo Boomers, starring Michael Shannon and Patrick Schwarzenegger, kicks off the arrangement on June 15. Future films that are part of the windows deal include Happily, starring Joel McHale and Kerry Bishé; Percy Vs Goliath (in the U.S. only), starring Christopher Walken, Christina Ricci and Zach Braff; and Under the Stadium Lights with Laurence Fishburne and Milo Gibson. More films will be announced at a later date, the companies said.
The Roku Channel, a fast-growing part of Roku’s overall streaming business,...
The pact will deliver films from Saban’s 2021 slate to Roku Channel viewers in the U.S. and Canada within as few as three months after theatrical and home entertainment release. They will be available for free, with limited commercial breaks.
Echo Boomers, starring Michael Shannon and Patrick Schwarzenegger, kicks off the arrangement on June 15. Future films that are part of the windows deal include Happily, starring Joel McHale and Kerry Bishé; Percy Vs Goliath (in the U.S. only), starring Christopher Walken, Christina Ricci and Zach Braff; and Under the Stadium Lights with Laurence Fishburne and Milo Gibson. More films will be announced at a later date, the companies said.
The Roku Channel, a fast-growing part of Roku’s overall streaming business,...
- 5/27/2021
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
Roku, in its latest bid to pack more exclusive content into The Roku Channel, landed a deal with Saban Films giving the streaming platform pay-one window streaming rights to a select batch of movies from the boutique film acquisition and distribution company’s current slate.
It’s the first pay-one licensing agreement for Roku, making The Roku Channel the exclusive North American streaming home for some Saban movies about three months after they premiere in theaters. Roku has a 24-month exclusive streaming window on the films.
The deal covers fewer than a dozen titles from Saban Films, representing about one-third of the company’s 2021 film slate.
Saban’s first film to premiere on The Roku Channel will be crime drama “Echo Boomers” (pictured above), starring Michael Shannon and Patrick Schwarzenegger, coming to the free, ad-supported platform on June 15. Future films under the deal include “Happily” starring Joel McHale and Kerry Bishé; “Percy vs Goliath” (U.
It’s the first pay-one licensing agreement for Roku, making The Roku Channel the exclusive North American streaming home for some Saban movies about three months after they premiere in theaters. Roku has a 24-month exclusive streaming window on the films.
The deal covers fewer than a dozen titles from Saban Films, representing about one-third of the company’s 2021 film slate.
Saban’s first film to premiere on The Roku Channel will be crime drama “Echo Boomers” (pictured above), starring Michael Shannon and Patrick Schwarzenegger, coming to the free, ad-supported platform on June 15. Future films under the deal include “Happily” starring Joel McHale and Kerry Bishé; “Percy vs Goliath” (U.
- 5/27/2021
- by Todd Spangler
- Variety Film + TV
Roku has acquired the This Old House business, including global distribution rights and all subsidiary brands, including the TV shows This Old House and Ask This Old House.
The deal continues to add assets to the streaming company’s Roku Channel, which doubled its scope in 2020, reaching households with 63 million people. It is primarily a destination for free, ad-supported streaming and has nearly 200 channels.
Executives declined to specify a valuation but source familiar with the deal said it would not require a regulatory filing that all transactions of $100 million and up entail.
The deal involves Roku taking over Toh Intermediate Holdings, which owns the This Old House business, from Tzp Group. The executive team of This Old House will join Roku, including CEO Dan Suratt, and the team behind the shows will continue creating programming as before, Roku said.
The show’s libraries, all digital assets, and the television production...
The deal continues to add assets to the streaming company’s Roku Channel, which doubled its scope in 2020, reaching households with 63 million people. It is primarily a destination for free, ad-supported streaming and has nearly 200 channels.
Executives declined to specify a valuation but source familiar with the deal said it would not require a regulatory filing that all transactions of $100 million and up entail.
The deal involves Roku taking over Toh Intermediate Holdings, which owns the This Old House business, from Tzp Group. The executive team of This Old House will join Roku, including CEO Dan Suratt, and the team behind the shows will continue creating programming as before, Roku said.
The show’s libraries, all digital assets, and the television production...
- 3/19/2021
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
Roku is adding a new annex to its original content strategy: The streaming platform has acquired This Old House Ventures, the company behind the 42-year-old home-improvement television brand.
With the pact, current seasons of “This Old House” (Season 42) and “Ask This Old House” (Season 19) will be available for free on the Roku Channel as on-demand episodes. New episodes will hit the platform after they air on local PBS stations.
Roku is acquiring all of Stamford, Conn.-based This Old House Ventures’ business. That gives Roku ownership of global distribution rights and all subsidiary brands, including the “This Old House” and “Ask This Old House” TV programs, show libraries of more than 1,500 episodes, all digital assets and the company’s TV production studio in Concord, Mass. In addition to the TV programs, the company produces web, social, podcast and print content. (The Roku deal does not include “New Yankee Workshop.”)
Terms...
With the pact, current seasons of “This Old House” (Season 42) and “Ask This Old House” (Season 19) will be available for free on the Roku Channel as on-demand episodes. New episodes will hit the platform after they air on local PBS stations.
Roku is acquiring all of Stamford, Conn.-based This Old House Ventures’ business. That gives Roku ownership of global distribution rights and all subsidiary brands, including the “This Old House” and “Ask This Old House” TV programs, show libraries of more than 1,500 episodes, all digital assets and the company’s TV production studio in Concord, Mass. In addition to the TV programs, the company produces web, social, podcast and print content. (The Roku deal does not include “New Yankee Workshop.”)
Terms...
- 3/19/2021
- by Todd Spangler
- Variety Film + TV
The Roku Channel, which entered the original programming realm this year with its acquisition of shows from failed streaming startup Quibi, has slated the premiere of action drama Cypher.
The series will have its premiere on March 19 in the U.S. and Canada. Roku emphasized that the show is a licensed program, not, in its view, a true original since it was produced elsewhere and owned by a third party during production.
Still, the Roku run will be the first appearance for the seven-episode show on any domestic platform. It will be free for viewers on the Roku Channel, the ad-supported outlet that Roku recently said has reach to households with 63 million people. The channel’s viewership has doubled over the past year.
Quibi programming is expected to roll out on the Roku Channel later this year.
Cypher stars Martin Dingle Wall as an FBI cryptanalyst who deciphers a coded...
The series will have its premiere on March 19 in the U.S. and Canada. Roku emphasized that the show is a licensed program, not, in its view, a true original since it was produced elsewhere and owned by a third party during production.
Still, the Roku run will be the first appearance for the seven-episode show on any domestic platform. It will be free for viewers on the Roku Channel, the ad-supported outlet that Roku recently said has reach to households with 63 million people. The channel’s viewership has doubled over the past year.
Quibi programming is expected to roll out on the Roku Channel later this year.
Cypher stars Martin Dingle Wall as an FBI cryptanalyst who deciphers a coded...
- 3/11/2021
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
Roku is gearing up to stuff a bunch of exclusive and original programming into the Roku Channel — and the company has set the premiere date for its first licensed content on this front for the free, ad-supported streaming service.
“Cypher,” an FBI-set crime drama series, will premiere exclusively on the Roku Channel on March 19 in the U.S. and Canada. The seven-episode hour-long show, from Cairo-based Aroma Studios and United Bros., will be available to Roku Channel viewers for free. All episodes will drop simultaneously in binge-friendly fashion.
It’s just the beginning of a big slate exclusive content coming to the Roku Channel, which the company said doubled its U.S. audience to 61.8 million in the fourth quarter. Roku acquired global rights to more than 75 of original shows from Quibi, the startup headed by Jeffrey Katzenberg and Meg Whitman that went belly-up six months after launch. Roku plans to add the Quibi lineup,...
“Cypher,” an FBI-set crime drama series, will premiere exclusively on the Roku Channel on March 19 in the U.S. and Canada. The seven-episode hour-long show, from Cairo-based Aroma Studios and United Bros., will be available to Roku Channel viewers for free. All episodes will drop simultaneously in binge-friendly fashion.
It’s just the beginning of a big slate exclusive content coming to the Roku Channel, which the company said doubled its U.S. audience to 61.8 million in the fourth quarter. Roku acquired global rights to more than 75 of original shows from Quibi, the startup headed by Jeffrey Katzenberg and Meg Whitman that went belly-up six months after launch. Roku plans to add the Quibi lineup,...
- 3/11/2021
- by Todd Spangler
- Variety Film + TV
Roku has positioned itself as one of the major gatekeepers in the streaming era, but its surprise deal on Friday to acquire 75-plus shows from the short-lived streaming service Quibi proves the tech company isn’t satisfied with only being a device maker. It aims to compete with larger tech giants like Amazon and Apple. Roku’s deal for Quibi’s content allows the company to significantly beef up The Roku Channel, its free, ad-supported streaming service. It’s by far the largest exclusive licensing deal for the 3-year-old digital network and one that Roku VP of programming Rob Holmes said fits with a plan to capitalize on the growing but underserved ad-based video-on-demand (AVOD) market. “We’re big believers in AVOD and started the Roku Channel three and a half years ago to really sort of support that trend,” Holmes told TheWrap. “The underlying kind of reason to get...
- 1/8/2021
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
Updated with stock uptick. In its biggest original programming foray to date, Roku has bought exclusive global distribution rights to the portfolio of Quibi, the recently shuttered mobile-only streaming venture fronted by Jeffrey Katzenberg.
The acquisition covers most of the Quibi library, but some daily news shows are not part of the package. A key draw for Roku is the talent, a roster including Idris Elba, Kevin Hart, Liam Hemsworth, Anna Kendrick, Nicole Richie, Chrissy Teigen and Lena Waithe. The lineup includes titles like Most Dangerous Game, Dummy and Murder House Flip.
Financial terms were not disclosed, though the valuation is understood to be less than $100 million, according to insiders. Roku shares rose 5% to $398.60 on the news. At one point early in the trading day, they reached $402.81, an all-time high.
In an interview with Deadline, Roku VP of Programming Rob Holmes told Deadline that the unusual rights flexibility offered by Quibi will stay in place,...
The acquisition covers most of the Quibi library, but some daily news shows are not part of the package. A key draw for Roku is the talent, a roster including Idris Elba, Kevin Hart, Liam Hemsworth, Anna Kendrick, Nicole Richie, Chrissy Teigen and Lena Waithe. The lineup includes titles like Most Dangerous Game, Dummy and Murder House Flip.
Financial terms were not disclosed, though the valuation is understood to be less than $100 million, according to insiders. Roku shares rose 5% to $398.60 on the news. At one point early in the trading day, they reached $402.81, an all-time high.
In an interview with Deadline, Roku VP of Programming Rob Holmes told Deadline that the unusual rights flexibility offered by Quibi will stay in place,...
- 1/8/2021
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
It’s official: Quibi’s pricey programming slate will live on at Roku.
As previously reported, Roku has acquired exclusive global rights to 75 of the now-defunct streaming service’s shows in a deal that The Wall Street Journal says was priced at "significantly less" than $100 million. The content will arrive on Roku's in-house Roku Channel later this year.
Deadline notes that the acquisition marks Roku’s biggest move yet into original programming, and comprises most of Quibi’s library -- including the Liam Hemsworth-starring Most Dangerous Game and horror home improvement series Murder House Flip -- aside from select daily news shows. As negotiated by Quibi, rights for the shows will revert back to producers after seven years even after they transition to Roku. Quibi’s infrastructure and technology are not a part of the deal.
Programming will be available for free and distributed with ads on the Roku...
As previously reported, Roku has acquired exclusive global rights to 75 of the now-defunct streaming service’s shows in a deal that The Wall Street Journal says was priced at "significantly less" than $100 million. The content will arrive on Roku's in-house Roku Channel later this year.
Deadline notes that the acquisition marks Roku’s biggest move yet into original programming, and comprises most of Quibi’s library -- including the Liam Hemsworth-starring Most Dangerous Game and horror home improvement series Murder House Flip -- aside from select daily news shows. As negotiated by Quibi, rights for the shows will revert back to producers after seven years even after they transition to Roku. Quibi’s infrastructure and technology are not a part of the deal.
Programming will be available for free and distributed with ads on the Roku...
- 1/8/2021
- by Geoff Weiss
- Tubefilter.com
Roku and Quibi have officially struck a deal that will send 75+ Quibi shows to the streaming device’s The Roku Channel. They’ll be made available for free.
Technically, following an internal restructuring at Quibi, Roku acquired Quibi Holdings, LLC — that’s the company that holds all of Quibi’s content distribution rights. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.
One does not need a Roku device to access The Roku Channel. It can be downloaded for free on mobile devices, which is exactly where Quibi was originally conceived to be consumed.
Here’s hoping Quibi content on Roku fares better than Quibi series on Quibi: Jeffrey Katzenberg’s radical short-form streaming service shut down after only seven months.
“The most creative and imaginative minds in Hollywood created groundbreaking content for Quibi that exceeded our expectations,” Katzenberg said on Friday. “We are thrilled that these stories, from the surreal to the sublime,...
Technically, following an internal restructuring at Quibi, Roku acquired Quibi Holdings, LLC — that’s the company that holds all of Quibi’s content distribution rights. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.
One does not need a Roku device to access The Roku Channel. It can be downloaded for free on mobile devices, which is exactly where Quibi was originally conceived to be consumed.
Here’s hoping Quibi content on Roku fares better than Quibi series on Quibi: Jeffrey Katzenberg’s radical short-form streaming service shut down after only seven months.
“The most creative and imaginative minds in Hollywood created groundbreaking content for Quibi that exceeded our expectations,” Katzenberg said on Friday. “We are thrilled that these stories, from the surreal to the sublime,...
- 1/8/2021
- by Tony Maglio
- The Wrap
Roku snapped up the rights to the majority of Quibi’s multimillion-dollar portfolio original programming — more than 75 shows in all — and will make them available free to stream in 2021 on the Roku Channel.
Following Quibi’s decision last October to shut down after failing to attract a sustainable base of subscribers, Roku acquired Quibi Holdings LLC, the company that holds all of Quibi’s content distribution rights.
Financial terms of the pact were not disclosed. A source familiar with the agreement said Roku is paying “significantly” less than $100 million for the Quibi library, confirming an earlier Wall Street Journal report. Rob Holmes, Roku’s VP of programming, said in an interview, “We do think this deal represents a great value.”
“Fundamentally, we think that Quibi has created great, high-quality content,” Holmes told Variety. “It’s a great value proposition for our users… We’re pivoting from Quibi’s SVOD model to an ad-supported model,...
Following Quibi’s decision last October to shut down after failing to attract a sustainable base of subscribers, Roku acquired Quibi Holdings LLC, the company that holds all of Quibi’s content distribution rights.
Financial terms of the pact were not disclosed. A source familiar with the agreement said Roku is paying “significantly” less than $100 million for the Quibi library, confirming an earlier Wall Street Journal report. Rob Holmes, Roku’s VP of programming, said in an interview, “We do think this deal represents a great value.”
“Fundamentally, we think that Quibi has created great, high-quality content,” Holmes told Variety. “It’s a great value proposition for our users… We’re pivoting from Quibi’s SVOD model to an ad-supported model,...
- 1/8/2021
- by Todd Spangler
- Variety Film + TV
TheGrill is thrilled to welcome “The Social Dilemma” writer and director Jeff Orlowski for an in-depth conversation about his new documentary exploring the human impact of technology companies including Google, Facebook and Twitter.
In addition, “Green Book” producer John Sloss, “The Irishman” producer Jane Rosenthal, WarnerMedia senior vice president of enterprise inclusion MyKhanh Shelton,”Broad City” and “Russian Doll” producer Lilly Burns, “Charm City Kings” star William Catlett,”Peanut Butter Falcon” producer Tim Zajaros and activist and producer JLove Calderón will also join the three day all virtual event September 22-24.
“The Social Dilemma” is a hybrid documentary-drama that explores the dangerous human impact of intensive social networking that is changing societies across the globe. It features tech experts who sound the alarm about the products they helped create. Orlowski will show clips from the film and discuss the implications of its themes on September 24, Day Three of TheGrill.
For over a decade,...
In addition, “Green Book” producer John Sloss, “The Irishman” producer Jane Rosenthal, WarnerMedia senior vice president of enterprise inclusion MyKhanh Shelton,”Broad City” and “Russian Doll” producer Lilly Burns, “Charm City Kings” star William Catlett,”Peanut Butter Falcon” producer Tim Zajaros and activist and producer JLove Calderón will also join the three day all virtual event September 22-24.
“The Social Dilemma” is a hybrid documentary-drama that explores the dangerous human impact of intensive social networking that is changing societies across the globe. It features tech experts who sound the alarm about the products they helped create. Orlowski will show clips from the film and discuss the implications of its themes on September 24, Day Three of TheGrill.
For over a decade,...
- 9/18/2020
- by Emily Vogel
- The Wrap
TheGrill is pleased to welcome top streaming executives from Sony, Roku, Pluto TV, Xumo and FimRise to explore how the streaming revolution has transformed the way content is created, distributed and consumed at this year’s three-day, all-virtual conference from Sept. 22-24.
FilmRise CEO Danny Fisher, Sony Pictures Television president of worldwide networks and distribution Keith Le Goy, Roku vice president of programming Rob Holmes, Pluto TV’s senior vice president of content strategy and global partnerships Amy Kuessner and Xumo CEO Colin Petrie-Norris will discuss the latest trends and opportunities in streaming.
For over a decade, TheWrap’s Grill event series has led conversations on the convergence between entertainment, media and technology, bringing together newsmakers to debate the challenges and opportunities facing content in the digital age.
TheWrap has created a digital-first experience for TheGrill 2020. This year’s event will focus on the future of theatrical, streaming revolution, building...
FilmRise CEO Danny Fisher, Sony Pictures Television president of worldwide networks and distribution Keith Le Goy, Roku vice president of programming Rob Holmes, Pluto TV’s senior vice president of content strategy and global partnerships Amy Kuessner and Xumo CEO Colin Petrie-Norris will discuss the latest trends and opportunities in streaming.
For over a decade, TheWrap’s Grill event series has led conversations on the convergence between entertainment, media and technology, bringing together newsmakers to debate the challenges and opportunities facing content in the digital age.
TheWrap has created a digital-first experience for TheGrill 2020. This year’s event will focus on the future of theatrical, streaming revolution, building...
- 9/15/2020
- by Emily Vogel
- The Wrap
The latest Screendaily Talk brought together execs from BritBox, Philo TV and Roku.
Niche streaming platforms have established their place in the ecosystem by offering targeted, affordable content to audiences who know what they want, a ScreenDaily Talks webinar heard this week.
Watch the full session above.
Since BritBox launched in North America in 2017, CEO and president Soumya Sriraman said the platform had surpassed one million subscribers in less than three years (it has since crossed 1.2million) and was set for further growth with its eye on original commissioning, co-productions, and international expansion.
While the platform – 50% owned by BBC Studios...
Niche streaming platforms have established their place in the ecosystem by offering targeted, affordable content to audiences who know what they want, a ScreenDaily Talks webinar heard this week.
Watch the full session above.
Since BritBox launched in North America in 2017, CEO and president Soumya Sriraman said the platform had surpassed one million subscribers in less than three years (it has since crossed 1.2million) and was set for further growth with its eye on original commissioning, co-productions, and international expansion.
While the platform – 50% owned by BBC Studios...
- 9/3/2020
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
The latest in our ScreenDaily Talks webinar series takes place on Wednesday September 2.
The latest in our ScreenDaily Talks webinar series takes place on Wednesday September 2 at 18:00 BST/10:00 Pdt/13:00 Edt. The session will look at three emerging platforms in the North American streaming landscape.
Register here
As SVoD services proliferate around the world and the lockdown brings a surge in engagement for platforms and their partners, three players will discuss the streaming ecosystem and how they see it evolving as they work with content creators and rights holders, forge clear brand identities, and develop growth strategies.
Soumya Sriraman...
The latest in our ScreenDaily Talks webinar series takes place on Wednesday September 2 at 18:00 BST/10:00 Pdt/13:00 Edt. The session will look at three emerging platforms in the North American streaming landscape.
Register here
As SVoD services proliferate around the world and the lockdown brings a surge in engagement for platforms and their partners, three players will discuss the streaming ecosystem and how they see it evolving as they work with content creators and rights holders, forge clear brand identities, and develop growth strategies.
Soumya Sriraman...
- 9/1/2020
- by Screen staff
- ScreenDaily
Roku has added CoComelon, the world’s most watched YouTube channel, to its fast-growing Roku Channel.
The streaming deal with Treasure Studio takes CoComelon beyond YouTube for the first time. The brand delivers songs and videos that help preschoolers learn basics like letters, numbers, animal sounds and colors. It is known for “Bath Song,” “Wheels on the Bus,” “Baby Shark Submarine” and other numbers that were in heavy rotation in many households even before Covid-19.
The Roku Channel launched last year as a home for both subscription and linear, ad-supported streaming content. The Kids & Family area has 20,000 of the Roku Channel’s 100,000 TV episodes and movies. In the first quarter, the channel grew at a faster pace than the Roku platform did generally, with a rise in streaming hours of more than 100% compared with the same period in 2019. The channel now reaches households with an estimated 36 million people.
Rob Holmes,...
The streaming deal with Treasure Studio takes CoComelon beyond YouTube for the first time. The brand delivers songs and videos that help preschoolers learn basics like letters, numbers, animal sounds and colors. It is known for “Bath Song,” “Wheels on the Bus,” “Baby Shark Submarine” and other numbers that were in heavy rotation in many households even before Covid-19.
The Roku Channel launched last year as a home for both subscription and linear, ad-supported streaming content. The Kids & Family area has 20,000 of the Roku Channel’s 100,000 TV episodes and movies. In the first quarter, the channel grew at a faster pace than the Roku platform did generally, with a rise in streaming hours of more than 100% compared with the same period in 2019. The channel now reaches households with an estimated 36 million people.
Rob Holmes,...
- 5/19/2020
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
When Disney and Apple undercut Netflix, pricing their new streaming services in the single-digit dollars per month, they shook up the market and reset consumer expectations.
HBO Max, which WarnerMedia will launch on May 27, is playing the opposite end of the market. It will retail for $15 a month ($12 for the first year for new customers). The company insists the hefty price point is a value given that it includes all of HBO’s existing offering (already $15 for most subscribers) plus 10,000 hours of other film and TV titles. Today, the company announced more bang for those bucks: a second wave of originals that will premiere in June and July and a feature film, An American Pickle with Seth Rogen, due in August.
No matter what you make of Max’s price, the spread from $5 to $15 for different versions of a similar concept is far wider than that in other consumer-facing parts of media empires.
HBO Max, which WarnerMedia will launch on May 27, is playing the opposite end of the market. It will retail for $15 a month ($12 for the first year for new customers). The company insists the hefty price point is a value given that it includes all of HBO’s existing offering (already $15 for most subscribers) plus 10,000 hours of other film and TV titles. Today, the company announced more bang for those bucks: a second wave of originals that will premiere in June and July and a feature film, An American Pickle with Seth Rogen, due in August.
No matter what you make of Max’s price, the spread from $5 to $15 for different versions of a similar concept is far wider than that in other consumer-facing parts of media empires.
- 5/13/2020
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
The Roku Channel, a two-year-old aggregator of 35 free, live channels and 40 subscription services, has become the latest streaming entity to offer a dedicated selection of kids and family content.
The move comes on the heels of Roku’s report of strong financial and operating results in the second quarter. The streaming giant posted a 72% jump in total hours viewed, to 9.4 billion, across 30.5 million user accounts. That scale gives the company a sizable audience to direct toward the Roku Channel, which has become one the five most-watched channels via Roku since its launch two years ago.
Unlike in the linear-only days, when a small handful of networks dominated the kid space for decades, the streaming era has created more of a free-for-all, especially given younger viewers’ embrace of technology. CBS All Access this month announced the addition of kids and family programming, a move that will gain momentum once Viacom’s...
The move comes on the heels of Roku’s report of strong financial and operating results in the second quarter. The streaming giant posted a 72% jump in total hours viewed, to 9.4 billion, across 30.5 million user accounts. That scale gives the company a sizable audience to direct toward the Roku Channel, which has become one the five most-watched channels via Roku since its launch two years ago.
Unlike in the linear-only days, when a small handful of networks dominated the kid space for decades, the streaming era has created more of a free-for-all, especially given younger viewers’ embrace of technology. CBS All Access this month announced the addition of kids and family programming, a move that will gain momentum once Viacom’s...
- 8/19/2019
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
Following through on plans announced earlier this month, Roku has officially added premium subscription access to Showtime, Starz and Epix via the Roku Channel.
The channel is up and running on iOS; Android devices will get it in mid-February. Anyone signing up for the premium networks before March 31 will get a 30-day free trial, the company said. One notable carve-out at launch is HBO, which is not among the networks being offered.
With 23.8 million active users, Roku has become a formidable player in the streaming wars, enabling many viewers to assemble their own bundles once they ditch their pay-tv subscriptions.
“We’ve made subscription streaming easy for our customers and are putting them in control. Now there is one place on the Roku platform where users can seamlessly access both free and premium entertainment, with one click sign-up, easy subscription management and a single monthly bill,” said Rob Holmes, VP of Programming and Engagement.
The channel is up and running on iOS; Android devices will get it in mid-February. Anyone signing up for the premium networks before March 31 will get a 30-day free trial, the company said. One notable carve-out at launch is HBO, which is not among the networks being offered.
With 23.8 million active users, Roku has become a formidable player in the streaming wars, enabling many viewers to assemble their own bundles once they ditch their pay-tv subscriptions.
“We’ve made subscription streaming easy for our customers and are putting them in control. Now there is one place on the Roku platform where users can seamlessly access both free and premium entertainment, with one click sign-up, easy subscription management and a single monthly bill,” said Rob Holmes, VP of Programming and Engagement.
- 1/28/2019
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
The Roku Channel, which offers thousands of free free, ad-supported movies and television shows, will soon offer premium subscriptions.
The company said its millions of viewers will have the opportunity later this month to subscribe to Showtime, Starz, Epix and 22 other premium channels through The Roku Channel. Consumers can subscribe with one click and pay for everything on one bill, and there are no prerequisites other than setting up an account.
“By making it easy for users to discover, subscribe to and watch premium subscriptions, we believe this offering will result in increased subscriptions and user engagement for our subscription partners and an even better user experience,” Rob Holmes, Roku’s VP Programming and Engagement, said in a statement.
The Roku Channel provides yet another way for programmers to reach consumers who’ve cut the cable cord or never connected in the first place. And the Los Gatos device-maker offers...
The company said its millions of viewers will have the opportunity later this month to subscribe to Showtime, Starz, Epix and 22 other premium channels through The Roku Channel. Consumers can subscribe with one click and pay for everything on one bill, and there are no prerequisites other than setting up an account.
“By making it easy for users to discover, subscribe to and watch premium subscriptions, we believe this offering will result in increased subscriptions and user engagement for our subscription partners and an even better user experience,” Rob Holmes, Roku’s VP Programming and Engagement, said in a statement.
The Roku Channel provides yet another way for programmers to reach consumers who’ve cut the cable cord or never connected in the first place. And the Los Gatos device-maker offers...
- 1/2/2019
- by Dawn C. Chmielewski
- Deadline Film + TV
Did I do that? Hulu viewers have a lot of time on their hands — enough time to binge watch the entire libraries of classic ABC “Tgif” shows including “Family Matters,” “Boy Meets World,” and “Full House,” in short amounts of time.
Among key details revealed by Hulu to IndieWire: 60,000 Hulu subscribers have already watched all 60 hours (or 120 episodes) of “Boy Meets World,” the coming-of-age sitcom that aired between 1993 and 2000 on ABC.
Also, the average “Family Matters” fan who watched the entire series in 2017 on Hulu — all nine seasons that aired from 1989 to 1997 — completed their binge within a month. That’s equal to consuming more than two seasons of Urkel and company per week.
And over the past year, among Hulu viewers who watched all eight seasons of the original run of “Full House” (1987-1995), they averaged their entire binge over the course of just one month.
Streaming services like...
Among key details revealed by Hulu to IndieWire: 60,000 Hulu subscribers have already watched all 60 hours (or 120 episodes) of “Boy Meets World,” the coming-of-age sitcom that aired between 1993 and 2000 on ABC.
Also, the average “Family Matters” fan who watched the entire series in 2017 on Hulu — all nine seasons that aired from 1989 to 1997 — completed their binge within a month. That’s equal to consuming more than two seasons of Urkel and company per week.
And over the past year, among Hulu viewers who watched all eight seasons of the original run of “Full House” (1987-1995), they averaged their entire binge over the course of just one month.
Streaming services like...
- 6/7/2018
- by Michael Schneider
- Indiewire
With peak TV hovering at almost 500 scripted shows alone, for many content providers the question is not how to break through that glut with a standout original of their own but instead how to make sure the audience can find the content they will connect with on their specific platforms.
“Roku has over 5000 channels,” Rob Holmes, head of programming for the Ott service, said at the Atx Television Festival Thursday. “Our purpose was really to make it easy to find free stuff. …We worked with a variety of partners to make…sort of an end-cap, like you’d find in a supermarket. [The free content] is curated into this experience that’s front and center on the platform.”
Holmes acknowledged that as the landscape changes, there is an “increasing challenge to highlight the great stuff that’s there.”
“We’re going to leave the super high quality, must have, must pay [programs] to the...
“Roku has over 5000 channels,” Rob Holmes, head of programming for the Ott service, said at the Atx Television Festival Thursday. “Our purpose was really to make it easy to find free stuff. …We worked with a variety of partners to make…sort of an end-cap, like you’d find in a supermarket. [The free content] is curated into this experience that’s front and center on the platform.”
Holmes acknowledged that as the landscape changes, there is an “increasing challenge to highlight the great stuff that’s there.”
“We’re going to leave the super high quality, must have, must pay [programs] to the...
- 6/7/2018
- by Danielle Turchiano
- Variety Film + TV
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