Have you heard about Freeform but aren‘t sure where to find it in your DISH channel lineup? As an experienced tech analyst focused on entertainment platforms, let me walk you through everything you need to know about getting Freeform on channel 180 with DISH Network.
A Rich History Spanning Decades
Freeform dates all the way back to 1977 with televangelist Pat Robertson‘s Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN), focusing on faith-based programs. By 1981, CBN launched the CBN Cable Network, airing classic family sitcoms and wholesome programming.
Over 20+ years starting in the late 90s, the network changed ownership multiple times:
- Fox Family Channel (News Corp – 1998)
- ABC Family (Disney – 2001)
- Freeform (Disney rebrand – 2016)
The network has catered to a family audience for most of its run. But in 2016, Disney shifted the channel‘s focus to specifically target youth and young adults ages 14-34.
Tuning into Freeform on Channel 180
As a DISH customer, you can access Freeform on channel 180 in your channel lineup. This prime channel placement allows quick access to original shows, creative programming blocks, and movies tailored to teenagers and 20-somethings.
DISH Network Channel Guide
| Channel Name | Channel Number |
|---|---|
| Freeform | 180 |
Having trouble finding the channel still? Grab your remote and use the on-screen guide to navigate to 180.
Diverse Mix of Content for Millennials and Gen Z
Unlike family networks of the past, Freeform‘s current programming showcases edgier, youth-centered fare from cult favorite originals to Disney blockbusters.
While they still air The 700 Club some mornings due to a long-term contract, much of Freeform‘s schedule targets 14-34 year-olds. As a DISH customer, you can enjoy:
- Popular original series like Motherland: Fort Salem, Good Trouble, and Grown-ish catering to young social causes or coming-of-age themes
- Creative seasonal programming blocks like 25 Days of Christmas and 31 Nights of Halloween
- Movie marathons like Marvel Fridays and Star Wars Weekends
- Beloved Disney films and programs from High School Musical to The Simpsons
In fact, Freeform‘s shift to appeal to Gen Z and young Millennials has paid off. Their originals now average 600,000 viewers between 18-34 – strong numbers in today‘s fragmented, streaming-heavy landscape (1).
Now let‘s explore some of Freeform‘s signature programming that makes it a top entertainment destination.
Can‘t-Miss Programming Blocks
Beyond standalone TV series, Freeform creates special programming stunts that provide hours or days of binge-worthy content around themes and seasonal events:
- 25 Days of Christmas: The biggest holiday movie marathon on cable
- 31 Nights of Halloween: Perfect for creepy, kooky Halloween vibes
- Funday Weekend: Marathons of Disney films, Marvel favorites, and more
- Family Guy Fridays: Episodes hand-picked by Seth MacFarlane
- Star Wars Weekends: Binge your favorite Star Wars films and series
With inventive lineups centered around franchises with big millennial and Gen Z fanbases, it‘s no wonder Freeform‘s blocks are so popular. The network maximizes access to Disney-owned content you won‘t find anywhere else!
Freeform and Other Disney Networks
As a Disney-owned property, Freeform works closely with sister Walt Disney Television networks:
- ABC
- Disney Channel
- Disney XD
- FX
- Hulu
- National Geographic
This family of networks allows Freeform to tap into programming, marketing muscle, and massive pop culture IPs other channels just don‘t have. Hit Freeform shows often crossover to networks like ABC, Disney Channel, or Hulu down the line.
Beyond major corporate synergy, being attached to media juggernaut Disney gives Freeform unbelievable access to content vaults and franchises like Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, and more to delight their younger viewers.
Getting Freeform Without DISH
If you‘re a cord-cutter without satellite or cable, don‘t worry – you can still watch Freeform originals, movies, and those beloved programming blocks I discussed earlier.
Major streaming platforms granting access include:
- Hulu Live TV: Hulu‘s live TV service includes the Freeform live channel and on-demand catalog.
- YouTube TV: YouTube‘s cable-replacement streaming bundle also carries the Freeform feed.
- Freeform App: For mobile viewing, get tons of Freeform entertainment on iOS/Android.
With over 86 million households in the U.S. now streaming (2), Freeform offers multiple ways to get your fix whether you have a traditional TV subscription or not.
The Perfect Choice for Youth Programming
As you can see, Freeform on channel 180 offers an exciting mix of original series, inventive programming blocks, and youth-friendly movies that can‘t be matched.
It continues to resonate with younger viewers while still embracing families through holiday stunts and Disney content. For DISH customers looking to get their dose of youth entertainment, Freeform is now easier than ever to access.
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