ITV’s tried them out, Channel 5 owner Paramount is a leader in them. Now Channel 4 is launching its first FAST channel in the UK.
- MAFS Live offers back-to-back episodes of Married at First Sight series 6 to 8.
- Service launched today in a two month pilot.
MAFS Live is making its debut on the Channel 4 streaming platform today, becoming Channel 4’s first Free Ad-Supported Television (FAST) channel in the UK.
The two-month pilot, running to Wednesday 7th February 2024, aims to gauge viewer appetite for the FAST format, while providing an innovative and viewer-focused streaming experience for fans of the popular reality series.
The channel will only feature episodes from series 6 to series 8, that’s the 2021-2023 series of the show.
▶ How to watch
Once live, the MAFS channel will be available on Channel 4 Streaming across web browsers, mobile devices, and tablets.
Web link: https://www.channel4.com/brands/mafs-live
Eye on the competitors
Last year, ITVX launched a suite of FAST channels. As RXTV recently reported, ITV has recently reduced the number of channels, with many reality-focused channels disappearing.
And earlier this year, Paramount, the owner of Channel 5 announced it was going to combine My5 with FAST channel platform Pluto TV, creating a massive collection of free streaming channels from Channel 5, Paramount and third-parties.
Corporate comment
Channel 4’s Head of Streaming Editorial, UK & International, Alex Wall said
“FAST is swiftly becoming a popular feature with viewers across the globe and we’re excited to bring MAFS fans a new way to enjoy non-stop hours of their favourite show.”
Throughout the pilot period, Channel 4 will closely monitor viewer engagement, tracking views and user behaviour to gain valuable insights that will inform the network’s future FAST strategy on Product. The trial will enable Channel 4 to adapt and enhance its offerings based on real-time feedback, ensuring that future FAST channels align seamlessly with audience preferences.
Channel 4 encourages viewers to dive into the MAFS Live experience and share their thoughts on social media using the hashtag #MAFSLive. The network is excited to embark on this ground-breaking venture and looks forward to shaping the future of free ad-supported streaming television.
Channel 4 recently announced the launch of FAST channels in the USA.
Marc Thornham
[Image: Channel 4 publicity photo]