PBS to launch more than 150 FAST channels on Amazon’s Prime Video in the US

US pubcaster PBS is launching more than 150 local channels and the PBS Kids channel as FAST offerings on Amazon’s Prime Video in the US.

Ira Rubenstein

The channels will launch over the coming months and will mark the first time PBS’ programming will be available for free on a major streaming service.

Channels will include programming covering fan-favourite series, movies, news, sports and more.

Additionally, PBS Distribution will offer two new FAST channels – PBS Drama and PBS Documentaries – for a limited time from next week, as well as a pop-up FAST channel featuring a rotating selection of classic PBS shows, starting with Reading Rainbow.

Prime Video subscribers will have access to the channels at no extra cost to their existing subscriptions, while non-Prime users will have free access under the Watch for Free section within Prime Video.

PBS said the launch comes at a time when two in three US viewers use FAST platforms.

The pubcaster’s chief digital and marketing officer, Ira Rubenstein, said: “PBS member stations will be able to tap into a leading streaming service to offer quality local programming viewers know and love for free. It’s part of the PBS commitment to make trusted content available to all households across as many platforms as possible.”