Breaking News
Roku, the leading streaming media player provider, has announced a multi-year theatrical output deal with Lionsgate Films, one of Hollywood’s major studios. This partnership will bring exclusive first-time, free access to Lionsgate’s theatrical slate on The Roku Channel, starting with the studio’s 2022 releases.
Key Highlights
- The agreement provides two separate windows for each film streamed on The Roku Channel.
- The first window offers exclusive rights to Lionsgate’s film slate immediately following its window on STARZ.
- The second flexible window allows titles to return after a relatively short initial free streaming period.
- Roku subscribers will be able to stream upcoming Lionsgate blockbusters, including ‘John Wick 4,’ ‘Borderlands,’ ‘Expendables 4,’ and ‘Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret.’
Quote from Rob Holmes, Vice President of Programming, Roku
"We are pleased to expand our relationship with our longstanding partner Lionsgate to provide our audience with exclusive first-time, free access to Lionsgate’s theatrical slate. This innovative approach creates value for both parties and most importantly provides the millions of streamers on The Roku Channel with the opportunity to enjoy these compelling titles via this unique window."
Quote from Jim Packer, President of Worldwide Television Distribution at Lionsgate
"This agreement affirms the great demand for first-run studio movies across a broad array of platforms. This partnership with The Roku Channel shows our ability to capitalize on opportunities in today’s complex television landscape with a multifaceted, layered approach that meets everyone’s needs."
Impact and Implications
This deal marks a significant milestone in the streaming industry, as it provides a new revenue stream for Lionsgate and expands The Roku Channel’s content offerings. With an estimated 80 million people reached by Roku as of the end of 2021, this partnership has the potential to reach a vast audience.
What’s Next?
As the streaming landscape continues to evolve, this deal sets a precedent for other studios and platforms to explore innovative distribution strategies. TechCrunch will continue to monitor developments in the industry and provide updates on how this partnership impacts the market.
Roku’s Reach and Earnings
As of the end of 2021, Roku reached U.S. households with an estimated 80 million people. The company’s earnings results for the first quarter of 2022 are scheduled to be released on April 28, providing insight into its financial performance.
Lionsgate’s Perspective
This agreement demonstrates Lionsgate’s commitment to exploring new opportunities in today’s complex television landscape. By partnering with The Roku Channel, the studio aims to meet changing consumer demands and capitalize on emerging trends in the industry.
Additional Titles and Future Plans
TechCrunch asked Roku about the total number of titles that will be added to the free streaming service under this deal. Unfortunately, a spokesperson was unable to provide this information at this time. As more details emerge, we will continue to update our readers on this exciting development in the world of streaming.
Conclusion
The partnership between The Roku Channel and Lionsgate Films marks a significant step forward in the evolution of streaming services. By providing exclusive first-time, free access to Lionsgate’s theatrical slate, both parties aim to create value for their audiences while capitalizing on emerging trends in the industry. As this deal continues to unfold, we will monitor its impact and provide updates on how it shapes the future of streaming.
Related Topics
- Borderlands
- Free Streaming Service
- John Wick
- Lionsgate
- Mass Media
- Media & Entertainment
- Roku
- Streaming Service
- Streaming Television
- The Roku Channel
- United States
