The Walking Dead Universe channel launches on Rakuten TV in the UK
August 25, 2026 10.33 Europe/London By Robert Briel

One of television’s biggest global franchises has arrived on Rakuten TV in the UK, with The Walking Dead Universe now streaming for free through a new dedicated FAST channel created in partnership with AMC Global Media – UK.

The launch brings The Walking Dead and Fear the Walking Dead to British audiences without subscriptions, sign‑ups or search — offering an easy, lean‑back way to drop into the franchise at any time.

The channel arrives as FAST viewing continues to surge across the UK. New European research, The FAST Advantage, published by Rakuten TV, shows that more than 80% of UK viewers now consider FAST either a primary way to watch television or a viable alternative to paid streaming services. The findings underline why free, ad‑supported environments have become an essential part of the modern viewing mix and a powerful route for content discovery.

Marcos Milanez, Chief Content Officer at Rakuten TV, says the partnership brings one of TV’s most enduring franchises to a wider audience. “The Walking Dead is one of the most iconic and enduring franchises in television, with a hugely passionate fanbase. We’re delighted to partner with AMC Global Media – UK to bring the series to a dedicated FAST channel on Rakuten TV, giving audiences in the UK a completely free and accessible way to discover, revisit and immerse themselves in this incredible content.”

Lucy Halliday, VP of Business Development International at AMC Global Media – UK, says FAST has become central to the company’s UK distribution strategy. “This launch builds on our ongoing partnership with Rakuten TV and reflects how central FAST has become to our UK distribution strategy. Bringing The Walking Dead Universe to the platform gives audiences free access to the franchise, which is exactly the kind of layered discovery route we’re focused on as we keep growing our FAST footprint across the UK.”

The arrival of The Walking Dead Universe channel highlights how FAST is evolving into a key destination for premium entertainment. As Rakuten TV’s research shows, audiences increasingly want frictionless access to high‑quality content without subscription barriers. For content owners, FAST offers new opportunities to expand reach, visibility and long‑term value for major IP.

By launching a dedicated channel for one of the world’s most recognisable franchises, Rakuten TV demonstrates how FAST can help premium content find new audiences while deepening engagement with long‑time fans — reinforcing its growing role in the UK’s rapidly changing television ecosystem.