Fuse Media, the Latino-owned multi-platform entertainment company, and OUTtv, the LGBTQ+ network and streamer, announced on Thursday that they are launching Free Ad-supported Streaming TV (FAST) channel OUTtv Proud in 2023.
OUTtv Proud will be developed with the support of former Logo executives, and feature original programming, as well as 400 hours of OUTtv’s original series, documentaries, films and specials.
“OUTtv is dedicated to amplifying queer creators and storytelling by delivering programs by and for the LGBTQ+ community. While doing so we have increased our original commissions by more than double,” said OUTtv CEO Brad Danks. “Our robust catalog of originals is now large enough to launch a complementary FAST service, expanding our reach even further. The Fuse team has built a highly successful portfolio of FAST channels and we look forward to partnering with them on OUTtv Proud.”
“Fuse has gained tremendous traction by delivering quality programming that reflects today’s young multicultural audience. Our FAST channels have allowed us to extend those successes by spotlighting specific, diverse communities, such as LGBTQ+ people, that still don’t get their fair share of representation in media,” said Fuse Media Chairman & CEO, Miguel Roggero. “We’re excited to once again partner with our friends at OUTtv — this time on a huge venture that will answer an important need for LGBTQ+ viewers and their allies in the FAST channel universe.”
The new channel follows OUTtv’s SVOD, OUTtv.com, which has seen year-over-year double-digit growth since launching in 2016.
Fuse Media already has a number of DEI-focused FAST channels, including Shades of Black, one of the most widely distributed Black content channels in the FAST space, and Backstage, which spotlights diverse music artists. Latino Vibes, which will be one of the only FAST channels offering English-language Latino content, launches later this year. Through international carriage deals, these channels are available to viewers around the globe.
Fuse Media’s FAST channels saw Total Minutes watched increase more than fivefold in 3Q22 versus the year-ago quarter. Additionally, in October the channels surpassed over 1 billion minutes watched this year.
OUTtv Proud will feature the series “Call Me Mother,” “Hot Haus,” and “Iconic Justice,” which return for new seasons in 2023. LGBTQ+ creators and talent such as trans activist and performer Miss Peppermint; legendary drag performers Trixie Mattel, Katya Zamolodchikova, Bob The Drag Queen and Willam; reality TV icon Tiffany Pollard and award-winning director Thom Fitzgerald.