Pluto TV

Tom Ryan, Ilya Pozin, and Nick Grouf launched Pluto TV in Los Angeles back in 2013 with a simple mission: bring the chaos of traditional cable to the internet without charging a dime. The service operates as a free ad-supported streaming platform available across the Americas and Europe, running digital linear channels that mimic the experience of flipping through broadcast television. Viewers tune into scheduled programming interrupted by commercial breaks, creating a passive viewing rhythm that feels familiar even in a on-demand world.

ViacomCBS acquired the startup for approximately $340 million in early 2019, integrating it into its broader direct-to-consumer strategy. This move positioned the brand as a cornerstone of Paramount's "free" tier offerings, competing directly with Tubi, The Roku Channel, and Amazon Freevee. As of recent market data, Pluto TV boasts over 75 million monthly active users in the United States alone, making it one of the largest FAST platforms by audience reach.

In August 2026, the platform continued to expand its content library significantly, notably adding major anime titles such as Mononoke, Terror in Resonance, Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress, One-Punch Man, and Kenichi: The Mightiest Disciple. During this period, the service also launched two new dedicated linear anime channels and increased its English dub offerings to compete more aggressively in the international animation market. Additionally, the service has secured exclusive free streaming rights for high-profile films, including Martin Scorsese's psychological thriller starring Robert De Niro. [edit]