OTTAWA, Canada—As part of a new strategic plan to better serve audiences across Canada on television and digital platforms, CBC News announced plans to launch a new free-to-air, ad-supported streaming channel at fall.
“The world of news media, television and video journalism is changing rapidly. Yet the demand for trustworthy and quality journalism remains unchanged. To reach audiences in new ways, we are making a strategic move into the world of streaming news with the launch of a FAST channel, while continuing to broaden and deepen the storytelling of our flagship program, “The National,” said Susan Marjetti, general manager of news, current and local affairs, CBC.
The new 24/7 free-to-air, ad-supported streaming news channel (FAST) for streaming, digital and connected TV platforms will deliver the best in local, national and current affairs journalism from CBC, said the Canadian public broadcaster.
The new channel will complement the CBC News Network, which will continue to be Canada’s live, breaking news subscription channel on cable, satellite and CBC Gem.
CBC News also reported that its flagship television program “The National” will also serve as the central pillar of the new streaming channel, with famed journalist Adrienne Arsenault named CBC News’ chief correspondent. Adrienne will host The National Monday through Thursday, starting this fall.
“Adrienne’s many years in the field and her wealth of journalism experience put her in a unique position to take viewers of ‘The National’ to the biggest stories that shape our world,” said Brodie Fenlon, Managing Editor. from CBC News. “Adrienne’s signature take-it-yourself approach to news storytelling and writing resonates strongly with on-demand digital audiences seeking quality and long-form content. Expect to see more on-the-ground reporting and on-the-ground anchoring as Adrienne steps fully into the role of chief correspondent in the fall.
Andrew Chang will play a central role on the new streaming channel, hosting a new daily show that will be the centerpiece of each day of the week. The show will also be available on CBC Gem, CBCNews.ca, the CBC News app and YouTube. Chang will leave The National in August to begin development of the program.
“Andrew’s new show, aimed at a new streaming audience, will capitalize on his strong news judgment and innate ability to engage people of all ages,” Fenlon added.
Ian Hanomansing has been named the new permanent host of “Cross Country Checkup” on CBC Radio and CBC News Network, and he will continue to host “The National” on Friday and Sunday. He will also host a new weekly interview series on “The National” in the fall, building on his growing and deep connection with Canadians across the country and on all platforms, CBC reported.
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