BBC Studios’ Boss Says Streaming Is The Future But Linear Still Pays
Marcus Arthur, BBC Studios’ chief executive for global channels and streaming, says the company is prioritising a streaming-first future while continuing to rely on traditional television channels. He argues that linear services remain profitable in many markets and that their income can help fund digital growth, making it important to manage both sides of the business together.
BBC Studios’ channels and streaming business generated £788 million in the 2025/26 financial year. Arthur oversees linear pay-TV, advertising-supported channels and digital services, including BritBox International outside North America. The company has expanded BBC Player alongside existing channels to 21 products across EMEA, while rebranding BBC First as BBC Belgium and BBC NL has coincided with increased viewership in Belgium.
- BBC Studios is building for a streaming-first future.
- Linear channels remain a major source of profit.
- Its channels and streaming business earned £788 million in 2025/26.
Both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
A streaming-first strategy reflects changing viewing habits and gives audiences more flexibility and control over when and where they watch. Investing in digital services can help BBC Studios reach viewers across markets and build a sustainable future as television consumption shifts online.
The case against
Traditional channels remain profitable in many markets and can provide dependable income to support programming and digital investment. Moving too quickly towards streaming could weaken those revenues, so maintaining both models may protect the business and preserve access for audiences who still watch linear television.
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