Versant completes acquisition of Free TV Networks By: Matthew Keys » mkeys@thedesk.net • January 13, 2026 Share: Free TV Networks operates a number of broadcast-first multicast networks. (Courtesy image) Versant has finalized the acquisition of Free TV Networks , the broadcast-focused media company founded by industry veteran Jonathan Katz. The deal will see Katz move to Versant in a full-time role, reporting to the company’s Chief Revenue and Business Officer David Pietrycha. His title was not announced in a press release on the acquisition, but Versant said he will continue to oversee the Free TV Networks business. Free TV Networks includes four multicast networks — Outlaw, Defy, Busted and 365BLK — along with the free, ad-supported streaming television (FAST) channel Pam Grier’s Soul Flix. The acquisition of Free TV Networks is intended to better position Versant as a multi-platform distributor of entertainment, news and sports. The company was spun out of Comcast’s NBC Universal earlier this month, and includes Comcast’s former cable networks like CNBC, USA Network, E! and Golf Channel. (Comcast retained Bravo, four regional NBC Sports channels and NBC Sports Network.) In a statement on Tuesday, Versant said the acquisition of Free TV Networks will allow the company to reach TV viewers who are incorporating more free TV channels and platforms into their media consumption diets. Free TV Networks declined to make Katz available for an interview when the acquisition was first announced last month, but sources familiar with the company’s short-term plans said Versant is expected to announce new broadcast distribution partners for its multicast networks in the coming weeks. Versant is currently discussing distribution agreements with Comcast’s NBC Owned Television Stations, Paramount’s CBS News & Stations and Fox Television Stations, the sources said. More Stories Get our news alerts Free TV Networks adds new Defy, 365BLK broadcast affiliates New TV network Busted debuts on broadcast stations Free TV Networks partners with Pam Grier on “Soul Flix” FAST channel Never miss a story Get free breaking news alerts and twice-weekly digests delivered to your inbox. Please leave this field empty Thanks! Check your inbox or spam folder to confirm your subscription. We do not share your e-mail address with third parties; you can unsubscribe at any time. Comcast Free TV Networks Jonathan Katz NBC Universal Versant About the Author: Matthew Keys Matthew Keys is the award-winning founder and editor of TheDesk.net, an authoritative voice on broadcast and streaming TV, media and tech. With over ten years of experience, he's a recognized expert in broadcast, streaming, and digital media, with work featured in publications such as StreamTV Insider and Digital Content Next, and past roles at Thomson Reuters and Disney-ABC Television Group.
Curated by Taleb Kabbara · Source: thedesk.net