AMC Global Media – UK is expanding its free streaming offering with the launch of a dedicated FAST channel built around The Walking Dead Universe, marking the first time the franchise will be available to UK audiences through a live, free ad-supported streaming channel.

Announced at SXSW London, the channel will launch in early June across multiple UK FAST platforms, offering a continuous stream of programming from the franchise without requiring a subscription.

The service will initially feature episodes of The Walking Dead and Fear the Walking Dead, with additional announcements relating to the wider franchise expected in the coming weeks.

The launch reflects the growing importance of FAST services in the UK television market as content owners seek new ways to extend audience reach and monetise library content. According to recent research commissioned by  Rakuten TV Enterprise, more than 80% of UK viewers now regard FAST services as either a primary way to watch television or a viable alternative to paid streaming subscriptions.

Tom Keaveney, Managing Director and Executive Vice President of AMC Global Media – UK, said the move was designed to widen access to one of television’s most successful franchises.

“The Walking Dead Universe has one of the most passionate fanbases in television, and FAST lets us open that world up to everyone,” he said.

The new channel becomes AMC Global Media – UK’s sixth FAST offering in the market, joining AMC Reality, AMC Cupid, Bloodline Detectives, Evidence of Evil and Love After Lockup.

The launch also highlights the continuing evolution of FAST from a niche distribution model into a mainstream part of the television ecosystem. Media companies increasingly view free ad-supported channels as a complementary distribution route alongside traditional linear television and subscription streaming services.

For AMC, the channel provides another opportunity to maximise the value of one of its most recognisable global brands while introducing new audiences to the franchise. The original The Walking Dead became a worldwide phenomenon following its debut in 2010, spawning multiple spin-offs and establishing one of television’s largest shared universes.

Platform partners carrying the channel have yet to be announced, although AMC said the service will be available through leading UK FAST platforms when it launches this month.

The announcement came during a SXSW London session examining the growing role of FAST services in audience discovery, engagement and content monetisation across the UK and European television markets.