By 
Rakuten TV has launched a dedicated The Walking Dead Universe FAST channel in the UK, giving viewers free access to programming from AMC’s long-running zombie franchise.
The channel launches with episodes of The Walking Dead and its first spin-off, Fear the Walking Dead, through a partnership between Rakuten TV and AMC Global Media – UK. The original series ran for 11 seasons, while Fear the Walking Dead concluded after eight seasons.
For Rakuten TV, the launch brings one of television’s most recognisable franchises into its growing portfolio of free ad-supported channels. Chief Content Officer Marcos Milanez described the franchise as having an enduring and highly engaged fanbase, making it well suited to a dedicated FAST destination.
The move also forms part of AMC’s expanding FAST distribution strategy in the UK. Lucy Halliday, VP of Business Development International at AMC Global Media – UK, said FAST has become central to the company’s UK distribution approach and provides another way for audiences to discover its franchises for free.
The wider Walking Dead universe now includes several additional spin-offs, including Daryl Dixon, Dead City and The Ones Who Lived, although the article only confirms The Walking Dead and Fear the Walking Dead as part of the Rakuten TV channel at launch.
The dedicated Walking Dead Universe channel has also recently launched on ITVX, showing how AMC is using multiple FAST platforms to extend the reach and lifespan of its established IP in the UK.
Comments