The CW Network Partners with Roku for Next-Day Streaming: A Game-Changer for Content Accessibility

In a significant move that bridges traditional broadcasting and modern streaming, The CW Network announced a new partnership with Roku on April 29, 2026. Set to launch in Fall 2026, this collaboration will enable next-day streaming of CW entertainment programming on The Roku Channel, greatly expanding the reach of both entities and enhancing viewer engagement.

The partnership is poised to bring a selection of popular scripted and unscripted content from The CW to over half of U.S. broadband households through a dedicated CW-branded hub on The Roku Channel. Among the highlighted shows are the much-anticipated series PRIVATE EYES WEST COAST, the unscripted hit POLICE 24/7, and original game shows like SCRABBLE and TRIVIAL PURSUIT. Additionally, fans of WWE NXT can look forward to streaming new episodes every Wednesday, the day after their live broadcasts on The CW.

Brad Schwartz, President of The CW Network, articulated the significance of this partnership, stating, “Partnering with Roku supercharges the reach and accessibility of The CW’s premium entertainment content.” He emphasized the combination of The Roku Channel’s extensive audience with The CW’s nationwide linear presence, aiming to unlock unprecedented scalability for both content and advertising opportunities.

The CW's lineup boasts a diverse array of programming, described by Lisa Holme, Head of Content at Roku Media, as “bold” and “binge-worthy.” From the suspenseful narratives of Sherlock & Daughter to the competitive thrill of WWE NXT and the enduring charm of Penn & Teller: Fool Us, the partnership will also provide access to over 800 hours of CW library content. This includes fan-favorite series like WILD CARDS and past collaborations with Roku such as the comedy CHILDREN RUIN EVERYTHING and the comedic procedural GOOD COP/BAD COP.

The collaboration is not just beneficial for viewers; it also opens new avenues for advertisers. By reaching a broader audience and enhancing audience engagement through The Roku Channel, The CW aims to create more valuable advertising opportunities. The partnership allows for deeper engagement with viewers, delivering advanced audience metrics at a scale that can significantly enhance advertising effectiveness.

The CW Network, owned 81% by Nexstar Media Group, Inc., is the fifth major broadcast network in the United States, delivering a robust lineup of programming that includes 15 hours of primetime entertainment and extensive sports programming. The CW App, which has been downloaded over 100 million times, provides a platform for viewers to access current and past episodes free of charge.

Roku, on the other hand, has established itself as a leader in the streaming industry since launching The Roku Channel in 2017. With a diverse library of over 80,000 on-demand movies and programs, and more than 500 live channels, Roku continues to be a preferred platform for streaming entertainment.

The partnership between The CW Network and The Roku Channel marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of content distribution in the entertainment landscape. By combining the strengths of both platforms, they not only enhance viewer access to quality programming but also create a dynamic environment for advertisers. As the launch date approaches in Fall 2026, both The CW and Roku are set to redefine how audiences engage with television content, making it more accessible than ever before.