Today we announce our partnership with Roku that will bring American Idol season 8 live to The Roku Channel, in its first single-territory live and simulcast deal, along with AVOD (advertising-based video on demand) digital exclusive rights to the series.
American Idol season 8 will air on ABC in the US on Sundays and Mondays and the next day on Hulu with a simulcast on The Roku Channel for free in Canada, streaming the next day on-demand on The Roku Channel. A special preview of American Idol, television’s most iconic music competition series will air on Sunday 2 March ahead of the new season premiere on 9 March.
“We are excited to be the exclusive streaming destination in Canada for American Idol, a mainstay entertainment choice for Canadians and our Roku audience,” said Jennifer Vaux, Vice President, Content Acquisition & Programming. “We can’t wait to bring the series to our viewers, while creating new engagement opportunities for our advertising partners.”
“The partnership between Fremantle and Roku to showcase American Idol marks an exciting step forward in digital broadcasting,” said Michela DiMondo, EVP Distribution, Fremantle Canada, International. “As the show that pioneered audience-driven voting, American Idol is once again leading the way—this time, shaping how Canadian viewers will engage with their favorite programmes for years to come.”
Season 8 of American Idol returns with music legends Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and American Idol alum Carrie Underwood joining the judging panel, alongside Emmy Award-winning host Ryan Seacrest.
American Idol is produced by Fremantle and 19 Entertainment (part of Sony Pictures Television). Executive producers include Megan Wolflick, also serving as showrunner, with Eli Holzman and Aaron Saidman serving as executive producers for 19 Entertainment. Fremantle distributes the series worldwide.
