AMC Networks announced its four streaming services — Acorn TV, horror-based Shudder, Sundance Now and African-American-focused UMC (Urban Movie Channel) — passed the 2 million combined subscriber mark.
There were no specific channel breakdowns, but British streamer Acorn TV surpassed 1 million subscribers in September, per the company.
AMC has made its targeted SVOD services a critical part of its strategy. CEO Josh Sapan told investors in October the addressable market for its niche services is “in excess of 10 million subs for each,” according The Hollywood Reporter.
Because AMC’s price points differ from competitors, it spends less on programming and marketing than general streaming services. Sapan added its networks don’t have the same pricing pressure as general entertainment services, which keep prices low to secure market share.
“We are able to achieve scale at much lower subscriber levels. As a result, our subscribers have very attractive long-term values,” notes Sapan.
In July, AMC Networks bought RLJ Entertainment — the parent company of Acorn and UMC. The services were reported to have a combined 800,000 subscribers. The service is available on Amazon Channels, Xfinity On Demand and directly on their own websites.