Roku acquires Frndly TV for $185 million, deal expected to close Q2

Roku has announced it will acquire Frndly TV, a low-cost streaming service offering over 50 live TV channels and on-demand content, for $185 million in cash, with $75 million contingent on future performance milestones. The deal is expected to close in the second quarter of 2025, and Frndly TV’s executive team will remain with Roku post-acquisition. Frndly TV will continue to operate on all existing platforms and devices, maintaining its affordable subscription tiers and family-friendly programming. Roku executives highlighted that this acquisition aligns with their strategy to grow platform revenue and subscriptions by adding a live content option popular with their user base. The move comes amid an increasingly competitive streaming landscape, with other major players like YouTube TV and Disney expanding their live TV offerings. Frndly TV’s focus on general entertainment at a lower price point, avoiding costly sports channels, positions Roku to attract value-conscious subscribers.