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Tubi Expands Canadian Content with Deal for Bell Media Originals

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Sunday, December 28th 2025 at 22:18 GMT by The Hollywood Reporter

Tubi Bolsters Canadian Content Library With Major Deal for Bell Media Originals & Back Catalog

Tubi, Fox Corporation’s free ad-supported streaming service (FAST), is significantly expanding its library of Canadian content with a multi-year licensing agreement with Bell Media, one of Canada's largest media companies. This partnership represents a substantial investment in Tubi’s international strategy and aims to attract and retain viewers both within the US and potentially beyond. The deal, announced on February 27th, grants Tubi rights to stream a vast collection of Bell Media originals, acquired programming, and classic Canadian television shows, solidifying its position as a key destination for diverse, free content.

A Wealth of Content Now Available on Tubi

At the heart of this agreement is access to a considerable catalog from Bell Media's various channels, including CTV, Crave (Bell’s premium subscription service – more on that later), Discovery Canada, and Comedy Network. Viewers can expect to find a wide array of genres covered, from scripted dramas and comedies to reality shows and news programming. Specific titles already confirmed for Tubi include popular series like Kim's Convenience, Schitt’s Creek (which initially aired on CTV), Corner Gas, and Letterkenny. These are all established Canadian favorites with significant crossover appeal. The deal also includes Bell Media-produced versions of international hits, broadening the scope even further.

The significance of securing Kim's Convenience is noteworthy. This critically acclaimed sitcom about a Korean-Canadian family running a convenience store resonated deeply with audiences and has become a cultural touchstone in Canada. Its presence on Tubi will undoubtedly draw viewers interested in experiencing authentic Canadian storytelling. Similarly, the inclusion of Schitt’s Creek, despite its later global success via Netflix (as detailed in this Variety article), provides valuable recognition for Bell Media's early investment in the show and caters to audiences who prefer free streaming options.

Strategic Implications: Tubi’s International Ambitions & Bell Media’s Monetization

This deal isn't just about adding content; it's a strategic move for both companies. For Tubi, it represents a key step towards bolstering its international reach and diversifying its programming slate. While primarily focused on the US market, Tubi has been exploring opportunities to expand internationally, recognizing the growing demand for free ad-supported streaming services globally. The Canadian content will be particularly attractive to viewers in the United States who are interested in experiencing different cultures and perspectives. It also aligns with a broader trend within FAST platforms: offering niche or locally relevant content to attract specific demographics.

For Bell Media, the agreement provides a valuable revenue stream for its existing content library. As traditional television viewership declines, media companies are increasingly reliant on licensing deals with streaming services to monetize their assets. This partnership allows Bell Media to continue generating income from programs that may have already run their course on linear TV channels. It's a smart way to extend the lifespan and reach of their productions while capitalizing on the growing popularity of FAST platforms.

Crave’s Role & The Changing Landscape of Canadian Streaming

The mention of Crave is important for understanding the context of this deal. Crave is Bell Media’s premium, subscription-based streaming service that hosts content from HBO, Showtime, and a selection of original productions. While Tubi gains access to some Bell Media originals initially intended for Crave, it's crucial to note that this doesn't represent a wholesale shift of Crave’s library to Tubi. Rather, it suggests a strategic decision by Bell Media to leverage its content across different platforms – premium subscription and free ad-supported – to maximize revenue and audience reach.

The Canadian streaming landscape is complex. Competition is fierce with established players like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and Crave vying for viewers’ attention. This deal highlights the challenges faced by Canadian media companies in navigating this environment. They need to find innovative ways to monetize their content while competing against global giants with deep pockets. The partnership with Tubi provides a valuable avenue for Bell Media to do just that – reaching a broader audience without directly challenging the subscription-based models of its competitors.

Future Outlook: Expanding Canadian Content & Potential Global Reach

The success of this deal could pave the way for further international partnerships for both Tubi and Bell Media. Other FAST platforms are likely to be increasingly interested in acquiring Canadian content, recognizing its cultural significance and potential appeal to diverse audiences. While the initial focus is on the US market, there's potential for Tubi to expand its availability in Canada itself at some point, further increasing the value of this agreement for Bell Media.

The Hollywood Reporter article emphasizes that financial details of the deal were not disclosed. However, the scope and significance of the content being licensed clearly indicate a substantial investment on both sides. As FAST platforms continue to gain traction and Canadian media companies seek new revenue streams, partnerships like this one will likely become increasingly common, shaping the future of streaming entertainment in North America and potentially beyond.

I hope this article provides a comprehensive summary of the Hollywood Reporter piece! Let me know if you'd like any adjustments or further details added.