After capturing much of Quibi’s content, it looks like Roku could explore developing its own originals – just like any other streaming service around.
As seen by Revealer and reported by Protocol, Roku seems to have recently listed a position on LinkedIn for a lead producer lawyer, although the role no longer accepts applications. According to the listing, the role would focus on Roku’s “original content list” and function “as the lead advocate for the production of the original episode and full-length productions.”
Furthermore, the list states that the role would negotiate agreements and consult on legal issues related to “any kind of development and production agreements, including options purchase agreements, scenario purchase agreements, life rights contracts. , employment contracts for writers, actors, directors and producers, production service agreements, line agreements, including for heads of departments, location agreements, permits, accessory leases, similar versions and credit notes. Sure, it sounds like new content, rather than anything Roku already has with the recent acquisition of Quibi’s assets.
Roku declined to comment.
Following Quibi’s death Last year (RIP), Roku bought much of the Quibi catalog in a deal that is rumored to be valued at less than $ 100 million, Deadline reported at the time, citing unnamed sources. While the agreement excludes some daily shows, it included more than 75 shows and documentaries that the service said would be available for free on Roku Channel sometime in 2021. However, the content will be supported by commercials.
G / O Media may receive a commission
All this stingy with a report from Digiday last year, Roku met with media and entertainment companies about creating originals for its platform. Citing sources familiar with the matter, the report indicated that those discussions could not have been advanced. And at the time, a Roku spokesman told the media that he was “not creating original shows and has no plans to do so.” But that happened in March, and a lot has changed since then – including Roku’s agreement to transport Quibi.
It also makes a lot of sense that Roku will build its Roku channel with originals, just like many of its competitors do. Amazon, for example, creates content and sells streaming devices with Fire TV sticks and its set-top box. Apple similarly creates content offered through its Apple TV + platform and on its own hardware. Creating content available to its Roku users could help the platform continue to dominate the streaming space – although this would largely depend on the quality of the content itself.
After all, its devices offer users dozens of video-on-demand applications that allow them to stream content from almost any service they subscribe to. And right now, no one needs another streaming option so much so. Please God, no more.
Answer added from Roku.