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.