NBC’s Seeso comedy OTT service kicks off free month-long beta


Details

Michelle Clancy

| 17 November 2015





Seeso, the ad-free streaming comedy channel from NBCUniversal Digital Enterprises, will kick off a month-long, Web-only, free beta period, beginning 3 December.


Seeso will broadcast comedies, exclusive shows, curated films and classic stand-up performances. The number of Seeso Beta Memberships will be limited, and offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

“It’s like the soft-opening of a restaurant,” said Evan Shapiro, EVP, NBCUniversal Digital Enterprises. “Everything is free, while you try out Seeso, sample our great classic comedy and get a taste of our exclusive original series. We think our stuff can help you laugh better, and we want you to Seeso for yourself. But, just like the soft-opening of any new neighbourhood club, space is limited and we might ask for your patience while we work out our service.”

Esso’s Beta Members will preview a wide range of content, including first looks at Seeso’s exclusive original series. These include: The UCB Show, from hosts, creators and Upright Citizens Brigade founders Amy Poehler, Matt Walsh, Ian Roberts and Matt Besser; dating/sketch show Dave & Ethan: Lovemakers, from Broadway Video’s Above Average Productions; Sammy J & Randy in Ricketts Lane, a musical comedy about mismatched housemates – one attorney, one puppet; Before the Morning After, featuring comedians drunk in a diner at 2 a.m. at The Edinburgh Fringe Festival; and animated sketch series The Cyanide & Happiness Show, based on the popular Web comic.

Seeso will also stream the live stand-up special The Guest List: Live From The Barrel House, on 8 December 8.

Seeso, which announced itself in October, said that it plans to introduce a range of functionality in the service, including an auto-play function and a "hunt while you watch" option, allowing members to continue viewing while they look for what to watch next.

The channel will be available in full on streaming platforms, connected devices and via other distribution partners for $3.99 per month beginning in January 2016.