Is Frndly TV dropping Hallmark Channel this holiday season? Explained

Hallmark Channel is a beloved network known for its feel-good, family-oriented shows and movies. Frndly TV subscribers, who enjoy affordable family-friendly content, are worried about losing Hallmark Channel. Viewers are concerned about their favorite holiday specials due to rumors that the channel may be dropped due to a carriage dispute. Though no proper confirmation has come up, Hallmark has warned of the same.

The dispute involves Hallmark and Frndly TV's new parent company, Roku. Hallmark accuses Roku of being unwilling to negotiate distribution terms. This dispute is significant because Hallmark Channel hosts the annual Countdown to Christmas, a fan favorite. The deal may not be renewed. So viewers may miss their favorite holiday movies and more.

Unsurprisingly, Frndly TV subscribers, many of whom signed up for Hallmark Channel programming, are anxious. Hallmark Channel, Mystery, and Family may be discontinued. Frndly TV recommends alternative streaming platforms or Hallmark+ to viewers.

Is Frndly TV Dropping Hallmark?

Hallmark Channel may leave Frndly TV due to a distribution dispute. Unless Hallmark and Frndly TV renew their contract, viewers could lose access to these channels by the end of the year. Hallmark has helped Frndly TV attract millions of family-friendly subscribers. Losing these channels would hurt Frndly's offering.

Hallmark blames Roku, which acquired Frndly TV this year, for the dispute. Hallmark claims Roku has refused to negotiate an extension. Hallmark Channel and its sister networks may leave Frndly TV. Viewers depend on Hallmark Mystery and Hallmark Family, especially during the holidays.

Frndly TV's departure from Hallmark Channel comes as fans prepare for the beloved Countdown to Christmas movies.

About Hallmark and its Subscription

Hallmark Channel airs family-friendly romantic films, mystery shows, and holiday specials. It is owned by Hallmark Media, which also owns Mystery and Family. Cable, satellite, and live TV streaming platforms like YouTube TV, Sling TV, and Fubo offer these channels. Hallmark+ contains its extensive movie and series library for on-demand viewing. Hallmark+ costs $6.99 per month, but new users get 50% off an annual subscription. 

The standalone streaming service Hallmark+ offers current and past Hallmark content. Monthly and annual plans cost $7.99 and $79.99, respectively. Frndly TV, which includes Hallmark Channel, Hallmark Family, and Hallmark Mystery, offers affordable family-friendly programming at $6.99 to $8 per month.

Some famous movies and shows on Hallmark Channel include When Calls the Heart, The Way Home, Aurora Teagarden Mysteries, Garage Sale Mysteries, Signed, Sealed, Delivered, Mystery 101, Mistletoe Murders, Chronicle Mysteries, Christmas in Evergreen, The Lost Valentine, and Finding Mr. Christmas. These shows and movies are network favorites for their engaging plots, mysteries, and festive holiday themes.

Roku's corporate negotiations and strategic changes may remove Hallmark Channel from Frndly TV. Hallmark is vocal about the network's dispute with Frndly TV's new owners over carriage fees. Without a deal, the channels could be removed by the end of the year, denying subscribers their favorite shows just before the holidays.

For Frndly TV holiday viewers, this may turn out to be a bit frustrating. Hallmark+ and other live TV streaming services offer alternatives to Hallmark Channel content. Hallmark fans hope for a holiday resolution to the dispute.

Contract negotiations in the streaming industry are difficult and as an effect of the same, Hallmark Channel may leave Frndly TV. Hallmark hopes a deal will be reached, but Roku's Frndly TV involvement complicates matters. If the dispute is not resolved, channel fans, especially those who watch the Countdown to Christmas, may have to find other ways to watch. Hallmark will continue to offer its loyal viewers content on other platforms.