Tubi Taps Football Freestylers Woody & Kleiny for Inaugural UK Original from Creator Program

Tubi, the free, ad-supported streaming platform owned by Fox Corporation, has announced its first UK original series, "Wheel of Misfortune." This commission marks a significant step in Tubi's strategy to expand its original content production into the United Kingdom and is the inaugural project to emerge from its dedicated creator program. The series will be produced by the popular football freestyling duo Paul Wood and Paul Klein, widely recognized by their online moniker, Woody & Kleiny.

Woody & Kleiny have cultivated a substantial digital following, boasting nearly 16 million subscribers on YouTube and over five million followers across their Instagram channels. This extensive reach positions them as influential figures within the online entertainment landscape, particularly among younger demographics interested in football, comedy, and challenge-based content. Their established brand and proven ability to engage audiences with dynamic and often humorous videos are key factors in Tubi's decision to partner with them.

The commission of "Wheel of Misfortune" signifies Tubi's commitment to diversifying its content library and tapping into existing fan bases through creator-led initiatives. This approach aligns with a broader trend across the streaming industry, where platforms are increasingly collaborating with social media influencers and established content creators to produce unique and engaging programming. By leveraging the built-in audience and creative expertise of Woody & Kleiny, Tubi aims to generate immediate interest and drive viewership for its original offerings.

The title "Wheel of Misfortune" suggests a format that is likely to incorporate elements of chance, challenges, and unpredictable outcomes, consistent with the type of entertaining and often light-hearted content Woody & Kleiny are known for. This move is also a strategic effort by Tubi to bolster its original content in a highly competitive streaming market. As a free platform, Tubi relies on original programming to differentiate itself from subscription-based services and to attract and retain viewers without the barrier of a monthly fee. Investing in creator-led content with a pre-existing audience is a cost-effective way to achieve this.

This partnership underscores the growing influence of digital creators in shaping mainstream entertainment production and distribution. The success of "Wheel of Misfortune" could serve as a blueprint for future collaborations with UK-based creators, potentially leading to a more localized and diverse slate of original content for Tubi's international markets. Tubi, which launched in the US in 2019, has been steadily expanding its global presence, and this UK original is a key component of that growth strategy.