In a move that could reshape the entertainment landscape, beloved fast-food chain Chick-fil-A is reportedly gearing up to launch its own streaming service. Known for its high-quality chicken sandwiches and commitment to family values, the Atlanta-based company is now setting its sights on producing wholesome, family-friendly content for the small screen.
According to reports from Deadline, Chick-fil-A is planning a diverse slate of original programming, ranging from scripted shows and animated series to unscripted content like reality TV and game shows. One of the flagship projects in the pipeline is a family-friendly game show, developed in partnership with the creators of NBC’s popular show “The Wall,” which has already received a ten-episode order.
With a budget of $400,000 per half-hour for unscripted shows, Chick-fil-A is making it clear that they’re serious about delivering high-quality content. While details on the specific themes and storylines remain under wraps, the company has made it clear that its programming will be geared towards family-friendly entertainment, a natural extension of the brand’s values and its mission to foster positive, uplifting experiences.
Brian Gibson, a seasoned industry professional known for his work on “The X Factor” and “Top Gear,” has been tapped to lead Chick-fil-A’s programming efforts. The company is also in talks with major production companies and is exploring options to license and acquire additional content, signaling that Chick-fil-A is not just dipping its toes into the entertainment waters—they’re diving in headfirst.
"We're competing with restaurants now, Lemon. Chick-fil-A won't be the last. Sebastian Maniscalco is hosting a variety show for Arby's. It streams only at participating drive-thru windows. They're paying him in Beef 'N Cheddars and launching a Horsey Sauce-scented cologne." https://t.co/R4CAYCsRtl pic.twitter.com/r39asv7wI8
— Mike Beauvais (@MikeBeauvais) August 21, 2024
Interestingly, this isn’t Chick-fil-A’s first foray into content creation. Back in 2022, the company quietly produced a series of animated shorts titled “Stories of Evergreen Hills,” which featured heartwarming, Christmas-themed stories emphasizing kindness and joy. This project was well-received and likely served as a test run for the larger, more ambitious plans now being rolled out.
Chick-fil-A’s venture into the entertainment space reflects a broader trend of non-traditional brands branching out into new industries. Companies like Lyft and Airbnb have also dipped their toes into content creation, with varying degrees of success. However, Chick-fil-A’s deep-rooted connection to its customer base, along with its consistent messaging centered around family values, positions it uniquely to make a significant impact.
“And it’s a Chick-Fil-A original movie, Liz” https://t.co/XDaazrAIN1 pic.twitter.com/k71gdf58k9
— Tom Zohar (@TomZohar) August 21, 2024
As expected, the internet was quick to react to the news, with some poking fun at the idea of a fast-food chain launching a streaming service. Critics and skeptics alike questioned whether the world really needs another streaming platform, especially from a restaurant known for its chicken sandwiches. Yet, the same critics overlook the broader cultural significance of Chick-fil-A’s move. At a time when Hollywood is increasingly out of touch with middle America, Chick-fil-A is stepping in to fill a void—offering content that aligns with the values of countless American families.
The timing couldn’t be better. As traditional broadcast networks lose ground to streaming giants, there’s a growing appetite for content that reflects the values of everyday Americans. Chick-fil-A’s move into this space could very well resonate with viewers who are tired of the same old Hollywood narratives and are looking for something that speaks to their beliefs and way of life.
In a world where most streaming services cater to niche markets and fragmented audiences, Chick-fil-A is boldly positioning itself as a purveyor of content that the whole family can enjoy together. Whether the streaming service will become a household name like Netflix or Disney+ remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Chick-fil-A is committed to spreading its message of positivity and family values far beyond the dining room, and into the living rooms of America.
As the year draws to a close, all eyes will be on Chick-fil-A to see if they can replicate their success in the fast-food industry in the competitive world of streaming entertainment. If anyone can do it, it’s a brand that’s been serving up more than just chicken for decades—it’s been serving up values that resonate with millions of Americans.