Every industry seems to be concerned with reaching the coveted Gen Z demographic — and media is no different. According to Nielsen, television consumption by young viewers has dropped by half since 2015. But teens are certainly still watching video.
Brat TV, co-founded by Rob Fishman and Darren Lachtman, is a digital video network focused on that young Gen Z audience. The Los Angeles-based company creates scripted shows like "Chicken Girls" and "Attaway General" that are aimed at teen viewers and star many of the latest TikTok and social media stars. The company expanded its programming to Tubi, Amazon Prime, Roku and other distributors. Brat TV said it has 4.8 million subscribers, and it racks up millions of views each month.
"You can launch a channel basically for free, and, if your content resonates with people, audiences will come to you without you having to really spend money on marketing," Fishman said.
Rather than casting mainstream talent in shows aimed at teens, Brat TV seeks out influencers already popular with their core demographic — and who come with built-in audiences often in the millions. The relationship is mutually beneficial. While social media influencers are often overlooked by mainstream outlets, they can gain credibility in the acting world through their work with Brat TV.
Watch the full piece to hear from influencer and Brat TV actress Indiana Massara and co-founder Rob Fishman:
Brat TV -- The Video Network for Gen Zwww.youtube.com
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Kelly O'Grady runs video and serves as the chief host & correspondent for dot.LA. Find her on Instagram @kfogrady and email her at kelly@dot.LA.