Lionsgate and Nielsen bring Nielsen measurement to the FAST space
Global content player Lionsgate and Nielsen, a global player in audience measurement, data and analytics, has announced that the two companies are bringing traditional linear TV metrics to the free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) space, an industry first.
The ground-breaking deal has enabled MovieSphere by Lionsgate, the only premium global movie channel offered by a major studio, to become the first major FAST channel to be measured by Nielsen, reporting channel viewership in the same measurement used by traditional TV ad buyers.
The channel is available on 18 streaming platforms, including Samsung, Roku and Pluto TV, and it will be available on nearly 20 platforms before the end of the year. MovieSphere will receive detailed demographic data on its audience, allowing them to better understand their viewers and make informed content decisions.
Jim Packer, President of Worldwide Television Distribution, Lionsgate: “By bringing proven linear TV metrics to the FAST space, Nielsen is providing us with a valuable and innovative tool to benchmark performance, evaluate what’s working and respond quickly to our audiences. This is potentially a very significant development where our team can leverage viewer reach, duration, frequency, concentration and other audience indicators to help us shape our branded, general entertainment channels to better return value for our partners.”
Amilcar Perez, Chief Revenue Officer, Nielsen: “With more channels and choices than ever before, Nielsen is highly focused on innovating to ensure our measurement helps clients understand what and where people are watching. The FAST market is growing rapidly, demanding more solutions to understand how people are engaging with FAST channels. We’re pleased to collaborate with Lionsgate, a leader in the FAST market, to bring more clarity and efficiency to FAST players.”
MovieSphere by Lionsgate has experienced incredible growth, with viewership up 87% year-over-year in the first quarter of this year. With approximately 123 average minutes watched per viewer in its first month of measurement using this tool, MovieSphere is comparable with leading basic cable networks, according to data provided by Nielsen.
MovieSphere by Lionsgate brings fan favorite films from Lionsgate’s acclaimed library together into one free streaming channel, offering everything from blockbuster hits to indie favorites.
