April 28, 2026
Free TV Network Artwork: https://freetvnetworks.com/pr-ftv
ATLANTA, GA – April 28, 2026 – Free TV Networks (FTV), a division of VERSANT (Nasdaq:VSNT), has signed its fourth distribution agreement of the year, extending its FAST channel portfolio to Philo as the company accelerates its free, ad-supported channel lineup.
The deal broadens access to Free TV Networks’ FAST channels 365BLK, OUTLAW, and PAM GRIER’S SOUL FLIX across Philo’s millions of viewers, marking the latest step in a broader distribution strategy spanning both FAST and OTA. Recent launches include CBS Owned & Operated Stations, Sling Freestream, and Prime Video.
“Free TV Networks continues its sustained momentum,” said Joe Cantrell, Chief Distribution and Development Officer of Free TV Networks. “Four deals in a short window reflects a deliberate strategy to scale across both streaming and broadcast. FAST extends reach and frequency, while OTA remains a foundational part of our distribution model, together ensuring consistent access to our brands across how audiences watch today.”
According to Nielsen, streaming accounted for 44% of total TV usage in the 2024/25 season, nearly matching linear at 45%, with the remaining 11% attributed to other sources such as VOD and gaming. The narrowing gap between streaming and linear highlights how audiences are increasingly turning to free, ad-supported viewing options.
Over the past 12 months, Free TV Networks’ FAST channels generated nearly 16 million viewing hours, or more than 43,000 hours daily, reflecting increased demand for curated, culturally specific programming in the free streaming environments.
“FAST allows us to scale efficiently while delivering targeted audiences for advertisers,” said Jonathan Katz, President of Free TV Networks. “At the same time, Free TV Networks’ broader distribution strategy is designed to maximize accessibility and engagement across the television landscape, particularly among viewers who have historically been underserved.”
With the addition of Philo, 365BLK expands its reach with blockbuster movies and hit series for Black audiences, OUTLAW broadens its footprint of iconic Westerns and legendary tales of the frontier, and PAM GRIER’S SOUL FLIX continues its growth as a destination for iconic films celebrating the heroes and legacy of Black cinema.
The channels are now available to stream for free on Philo by visiting https://www.philo.com/go/free-channels, clicking “Watch Free” through the main menu within the platform, as well as available in Philo’s paid plans in the Free Channels section.
About FREE TV NETWORKS
Free TV Networks (FTV), a Versant Media Group, Inc. company since January 2026, serves consumers through national premium free over-the-air digital broadcast networks (“diginets”) and free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) channels. FTV has successfully launched a portfolio of digital broadcast networks including 365BLK and OUTLAW—each with corresponding FAST channels—along with DEFY, BUSTED, and PAM GRIER’S SOUL FLIX (FAST). FTV capitalizes on the resurgence of over-the-air viewing and the rapid growth of free ad-supported television. Digital broadcast networks grew their total share of viewing by 12% during the 2024/25 broadcast season and 25% over the last two seasons, per Nielsen.
About VERSANT
VERSANT (Nasdaq: VSNT) is an industry-changing media and entertainment business and home to trusted brands that shape culture, inform audiences, and build lasting connections. It operates across four core markets: political news and opinion, business news and personal finance, golf and athletics participation and sports and genre entertainment. These markets are served through a powerful portfolio of iconic and innovative brands, including CNBC, MS NOW, USA Network, Golf Channel, Oxygen, E!, SYFY, along with complementary digital assets including Fandango, Rotten Tomatoes, GolfNow, GolfPass and Free TV Networks. Visit www.VersantMedia.com for more information.
About PHILO
Philo is a San Francisco-based live TV streaming service offering 70+ top-rated entertainment channels, 75,000 on-demand titles, and an unlimited DVR that saves recordings for a year, with paid plans starting as low as $25/month. Philo also offers 130+ free channels available to watch anytime without an account. Learn more at philo.com.
Media Contacts:
Brandee Brooks
Free TV Networks
Hollie Tracz
VERSANT
