• by Alex Weprin , November 19, 2018

Programming from Discovery Inc. will be coming to the free streaming video service Pluto TV. 

The multi-year, nonexclusive deal will see TV shows from Discovery’s library streaming for free on Pluto. Discovery owns a number of channels, including Discovery Channel, Food Network and HGTV.

However, the deal with Pluto specifically covers content from Discovery Channel, Animal Planet, ID, Discovery Life, Science Channel and TLC. Other channels may be added later.

Discovery’s programming will be added this month. Available show to watch on Pluto will include Discovery Channel's “Misfit Garage,” TLC's “Kate Plus 8,” Animal Planet's “River Monsters” and ID's “Dates from Hell.”

For Pluto, the deal beefs up their programming lineups, adding a new source of nonfiction programming to its library. For Discovery, the deal will likely bring in a little bit of revenue, “while also introducing these brands and series to new viewers,” stated Gabriel Sauerhoff, senior vice president, digital distribution for Discovery.

Pluto TV is built around a “lean-back” experience that includes linear video programming. When a viewer opens the Pluto app, video starts playing. Users can open “channels” within the app to keep watching. It also has on-demand programming.

The company is one of a number of streaming services trying to become a free alternative to premium offerings like Netflix, Hulu and amazon Prime Video.

Discovery is an investor in Pluto through Scripps Networks Interactive, which Discovery acquired earlier this year.