Fox’s ad-supported streamer Tubi finally launches in the UK after four-year delay

Tubi was acquired by Fox in 2020

US broadcast network Fox has launched its free, ad-supported streaming service Tubi in the UK, offering a library of more than 20,000 movies and TV episodes.

Tubi, which has been available in the US for over a decade, announced plans in 2019 to launch in the UK in early 2020 but was acquired by Fox for US$440m in March that year and the UK launch was pushed back.

Anjali Sud, CEO of Tubi, said the company has spent the past decade “honing” its approach to “vast, free and fun streaming in North America” and it feels “that now is the perfect time to bring that recipe to UK audiences.”

Tubi launched in Australia and Canada in 2019, marking its first launches outside the US. It has since expanded into Latin America.

With an extensive library of movies, TV series and exclusive originals, its content in the UK includes content from global distributors such as Disney, Lionsgate, NBCUniversal and Sony Pictures Entertainment. Titles include Marvel’s Runaways, Blockers, Pacific Rim: Uprising, Fresh Meat, Twilight, The Beguiled, Tower Heist and Billy Elliot.

“We are launching with one of the largest and most diverse content libraries in the UK, designed to indulge viewers in everything from blockbusters to original stories to hidden gems. Most importantly, we’re committed to listening to what resonates with UK fans and bringing them more and more of what they love,” said Sud.

David Salmon, executive VP and managing director of international at Tubi, said: “At a time when traditional programming feels homogenous and when finding what to watch feels like a chore, Tubi has been effective at delivering delight beyond the monoculture with content that appeals to diverse and vibrant fandoms.

“We believe that we can build a brilliantly broad, culturally ambitious offering that puts UK audiences back at the centre and makes it fun and easy to enjoy great entertainment from around the world.”