When a show has a devoted fan base, it’s just good business to cater to them. BBC America’s “Orphan Black” premieres this weekend and Amazon Prime is offering the first season streaming, for free. Michael Paull, Vice President of Digital Video at Amazon says:
“Orphan Black” has been extremely popular with Prime members since the series became available exclusively in Prime Instant Video—that’s why we’re excited to make season one available to all customers for free, for a day. We saw an incredible response when we made our Golden Globe-winning original series “Transparent” available to everyone, so we’re giving customers an opportunity to try out another great series that Prime members already love.
Most of BBC America’s strategy in the lead up to the new season has been trying to snag new fans. The Clone Club has already seen the first season. They want new fans. Releasing trailers, making full episodes available on YouTube, and holiday marathons are all focused on getting them. For most scripted drama, once you get them hooked, they’ll come back. Usually. In an official statement, Matt Forde, EVP, Sales, Co-productions and Digital Distribution, BBC Worldwide North America said:
For fans of television who have heard the critical and fan buzz around Orphan Black, but just haven’t had gotten to it, this offering from Amazon is a treat—and available to not only existing Prime members but everyone who goes to Amazon during this 24 hour period. You better cancel all meetings and take Friday off from work.
I don’t know that that’s possible, and it is sort of a tease that it’s just for one day, and a weekday at that. I say fans unite and beg for a little Saturday action, too. It’s a win-win: “Orphan Black” gets some new followers and Amazon increases its value with a good show and good will. Streaming little known shows for free when they’re up for awards or gunning for a second season is a great new normal.
