By Connie Thiessen
CBC News Explore has launched, the public broadcaster’s new free ad-supported streaming (FAST) news channel, available on digital and connected TV platforms.
The channel, announced today, will feature a curated selection of CBC journalism from across the country in addition to original programs, led by new Andrew Chang vehicle About That – a look at the day’s most compelling stories in a blend of conversation and feature interviews.
Other original programming includes This Week in Canada, a weekly show featuring original CBC News stories chosen for their ability to resonate with audiences across the country, exploring how headlines are impacting people where they live.
CBC News Network and CBC Vancouver meteorologist, seismologist and scientist Johanna Wagstaffe will host Planet Wonder, a six-part original series exploring the natural world and the impact of the changing climate.
Also launching on the channel is BIG: A CBC News Original Documentary series that looks at the powerful players gaming the biggest and most culturally influential industries, from the digital music industry monopoly to dating apps and the true crime entertainment phenomenon influencing the justice system.
CBC News Explore will stream free on CBC Gem, CBCNews.ca, and the CBC News app, and will also be available on Smart and Connected TV platforms, including The Roku Channel (105 in Canada). Some Explore programming will also be available on demand via CBC Gem, the CBC News app and the CBC News YouTube channel.
The FAST channel sees the public broadcaster move further into the digital space following a June CRTC licence renewal decision allowing it to meet its conditions of licence via its streaming platforms for the first time. That decision has since been referred back to the commission for re-evaluation.
This story first appeared in Broadcast Dialogue on November 30 and is reprinted with permission.
