Pluto TV Canada provides platform for fast-growing DEI channels

Katrina Kowalski, VP of content

Paramount’s FAST platform Pluto TV has unveiled a new partnership with Latino-owned multi-platform entertainment company Fuse Media, which is dedicated to empowering, celebrating, and amplifying young multicultural voices around the world.

Under the terms of the alliance, Pluto TV Canada is to carry two Fuse-owned FAST channels on its platform, OUTtv Proud and Shades of Black.

According to the partners, the OUTtv Proud channel super-serves 2SLGBTQ+ audiences with a blend of rising stars and top talent in original programming. The channels will launch with around 400 hours of documentaries, films and specials that are “custom-made to entertain, advocate for and galvanise global queer audiences”. Shades of Black, meanwhile, celebrates Black culture with an exclusive collection of studio and independent films, scripted and reality series, documentaries, and specials that represent global Black culture. Shades of Black is a partnership between Cinedigm, Quincy Newell’s TwentyOne14 Media and Fuse Media.

“Paramount has a long-standing commitment to increasing diverse representation, both onscreen and off,” said Katrina Kowalski, VP of content, Pluto TV and Paramount+ in Canada. “This partnership speaks to our commitment, while also enhancing Pluto TV’s already vast channel lineup. We are proud to expand our library of hit shows and films to offer these channels – OUTtv Proud and Shades of Black.”

“The response to Fuse Media’s FAST channels from distributors around the globe has been tremendous,” added Fuse Media Chairman & CEO, Miguel Roggero. “Shades of Black continues to connect with viewers, surpassing one billion minutes watched in 2022; and we are excited to grow the audience for our newest offering, OUTtv Proud. The success of our DEI-focused FAST channels shows content that entertains and empowers knows no boundaries.” Fast-growing Pluto TV launched in Canada on December 1, 2022, with around 100 channels and 20,000 hours of content.