Free TV Networks
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Media |
| Founded | January 1, 2024 |
Area served | United States |
Key people | Jonathan Katz (CEO) |
| Products | Digital multicast networks, free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) |
Free TV Networks, LLC is a U.S.-based media firm specializing in digital multicasting and free ad-supported streaming television (FAST). The company operates four broadcast networks and is headed by industry expert Jonathan Katz, who previously established the foundation for what evolved into the Scripps Networks division within the E. W. Scripps Company. Its programming strategy focuses on serving niche demographics through tailored content offerings.
Structure
The company introduced two digital multicast channels, originally named The365 and Outlaw, on January 1, 2024; The365 was subsequently rebranded as 365BLK. Gray Television supplies the majority of affiliate stations, although numerous affiliates are low-power broadcasters lacking cable distribution in areas without Gray presence. The 365BLK network is designed to appeal primarily to African American audiences, whereas Outlaw showcases Western-themed movies and television series. The content style on these networks draws parallels to Bounce TV and Grit, both of which Katz previously founded under Katz Broadcasting before its acquisition by Scripps.
Defy TV, initially launched by Scripps on July 1, 2021, features reality programming sourced from A&E Networks' catalog. On July 1, 2024, Defy transitioned into a collaborative venture between Free TV Networks and A&E Networks. Despite this partnership shift, Scripps resumed distribution of Defy on Ion Television stations starting July 1, 2025, following a new affiliation agreement.
On March 1, 2025, Free TV Networks expanded its portfolio with the launch of Busted, a network dedicated to reality series centered around law enforcement themes.