Fuse Media expands LGBTQ+ offering as OUTtv preps FAST channel

Safe Country

Latino-focused Fuse Media has struck a deal with LGBTQ+ network and streamer OUTtv that will see the launch of new FAST channel available around the world.

OUTtv Proud will be rolled out on Fuse’s channels service in 2023 and will offer more than 400 hours of original programming, including series, documentaries, films and specials which “are custom-made to entertain, advocate for and galvanise global queer audiences,” the company said.

Originals produced to date include Call Me Mother, Hot Haus, Safe Country and Iconic Justice, with LGBTQ+ creators and talent including trans activist and performer Miss Peppermint and drag performer Trixie Mattel among those featuring.

The service will join a roster of DEI-focused FAST channels that, via international carriage deals, connect the Fuse Media brand with viewers across the globe.

These include Shades of Black, one of the most widely distributed Black content channel in the FAST space, and Latino Vibes, which is set to launch later this year and will be one of the only FAST channels offering English-language Latino content.

Fuse said its FAST channels saw total minutes watched increase more than fivefold in the hitd quarter of 2022 versus the same time ilast year, while in October the channels surpassed over 1 billion minutes watched this year.

“OUTtv is dedicated to amplifying queer creators and storytelling by delivering programs by and for the LGBTQ+ community. While doing so we have increased our original commissions by more than double,” said OUTtv CEO Brad Danks.

“Our robust catalogue of originals is now large enough to launch a complementary FAST service, expanding our reach even further. The Fuse team has built a highly successful portfolio of FAST channels and we look forward to partnering with them on OUTtv Proud.”