BBC Studios to Launch Ad-Free Subscription Streaming Channel

BBC Studios is set to launch a new, ad-free subscription streaming channel, BBC Select, in early 2021 on Amazon Prime Video Channels and the Apple TV app.

Set for the U.S. and Canada, BBC Select will offer a range of programs from the U.K. covering three main topics: culture, politics and ideas. A significant portion of the programs are exclusive premieres for audiences in the U.S. and Canada.

Programming includes Grayson Perry: Big American Road Trip from artist Grayson Perry; author and documentarian of social issues Stacey Dooley and her series Brainwashing Stacey; historian Professor Sir Simon Schama with his new series The Romantic Revolution; and filmmaker Louis Theroux and a large collection of his work, including Selling Sex, Surviving America’s Most Hated Family and Talking to Anorexia.

“For nearly a century, the BBC has been synonymous with extraordinary television programs— full stop,” said Rebecca Glashow, president of BBC Studios Americas. “Name any genre, the BBC is best in class at identifying talent and providing them a platform for expression. As we shift our business focus to engaging our fans direct, the digital space offers us the opportunity to bring audiences a portfolio of shows that bring new ideas and perspectives into the conversation. Our research has shown that audiences are looking for an alternative to what is already out there. BBC Select is it.”

“BBC Select is for those who crave knowledge, new perspectives, and programs that are not your standard fare,” said Louise la Grange, general manager and launch director. “BBC Select will combine a rich line up of never-before-seen shows in the U.S. and Canada with a prized portfolio of thought-provoking, eye-opening programs that provide context and color to the world we all share—all in one place.”