US streamer Optix Network to launch with creator-focused model, original reality show

Reality series House of Ink debuts next month

US streaming service The Optix Network will launch next month featuring an original unscripted series called House of Ink and using a model it says will pay independent producers through licensing fees, royalties and potential profit-sharing.

The service will be available on the web, mobile and major connected TV platforms, including iOS, Android, Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, Google TV and Samsung. Optix said it will carry original series, films and documentaries from independent producers and established studios.

House of Ink, its first original, premieres on November 16. The reality series follows Ceaser Emanuel, star of the VH1 series Black Ink Crew, as well as Sky Days, Spyder, Krystal Morales and Bux as they navigate business ventures, relationships and personal challenges. Optix said the show will be the first of many originals.

Other titles on the launch slate include documentaries Kevin Samuels: Misogynist or Messenger? and Killa Hill, plus movies The Girl Who Got Away and The Taking of Deborah Logan.

For producers, Optix said it is developing a distribution model that combines licensing arrangements, performance-based royalties and potential profit-sharing. The platform offers an ad-supported tier as well as an ad-free SVoD tier.

“We want to connect audiences with compelling entertainment while creating meaningful opportunities for independent storytellers to share their work, earn from their creativity and build lasting careers,” an Optix Network representative said.