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.”
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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.