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When Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV (FAST) first emerged, its channels quickly became known as the home of dated, recycled TV shows and movies—free entertainment that offered volume but little innovation. As Bruce might have said, 57 Channels (And Nothin’ On).
Today, that perception is rapidly changing. Platforms like Tubi and The Roku Channel are investing heavily in original content, reshaping the FAST landscape and redefining what free streaming can offer. Tubi, for instance, recently announced it surpassed 97 million monthly active users (MAUs), up from 78 million in mid-2024. Alongside this growth, Tubi streamed over 10 billion hours of content in 2024 and expanded its library to more than 275,000 titles, including 300 Tubi Originals.
The Roku Channel, a close competitor, has also ventured into originals, producing notable content like Weird: The Al Yankovic Story.
Here’s how the current FAST platforms stack up, according to The Hollywood Reporter:
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FAST’s Evolution: From Filler Content to Premium Originals
FAST platforms initially built their audiences by offering vast older content libraries catering to nostalgia and passive viewing. But the days of relying solely on this strategy are fading fast.
Tubi’s recent original productions, such as The Thicket starring Peter Dinklage and The Z-Suite with Lauren Graham, showcase its ambition to deliver fresh, culturally resonant content. Similarly, The Roku Channel’s originals, including comedies, documentaries, and biopics like Weird: The Al Yankovic Story, help elevate its brand while diversifying its audience. These moves signal a significant shift: FAST platforms are no longer just content libraries; they’re becoming hubs of exclusive and innovative programming.
Why This Shift Matters
The rise of original content on FAST platforms changes the game for viewers and advertisers. For audiences, it means access to high-quality, diverse entertainment without subscription fees. For advertisers, it offers premium ad inventory with a more engaged audience. This shift also positions FAST as a more viable alternative to subscription-based platforms, especially as paid services consolidate and raise prices.
The timing couldn’t be better. As consumer budgets tighten and paid streaming services become more competitive with bundles, FAST platforms fill a growing gap by offering free, premium content. This evolution is reshaping the broader streaming ecosystem, blurring the lines between free and paid models.
The New Face of FAST
Tubi and The Roku Channel aren’t alone in redefining FAST. Platforms like Pluto TV and Samsung TV Plus may soon follow suit, investing in exclusive content to stay competitive. As FAST platforms evolve, they are carving out a distinct niche in the streaming market—one that blends the accessibility of free streaming with the quality and appeal of premium content.
This shift not only elevates the standing of FAST but also reflects a broader trend across the streaming industry. Free no longer means limited or second-rate. The new face of FAST is innovation and creative storytelling, offering audiences more than they ever expected—without the subscription fees. By embracing originality and diversity, FAST platforms are proving that free streaming isn’t just growing—it’s thriving.
For a glimpse into Tubi’s original content, check out the trailer for We Got Time Today, a new talk show hosted by Deion Sanders and Rocsi Diaz (produced especially for people who feared that Deion was underexposed).
