CNN is joining the streaming game, executives announced Monday, with the launch of its CNN+ service in the first quarter of 2022.
Network executives describe the new platform as 'an addictive experience that complements the core CNN linear networks and digital platforms to serve CNN super-fans, news junkies and fans of quality non-fiction programming.'
The streaming service will offer eight to 12 hours of live programming per day, original series and an interactive community 'to engage directly with our talent and experts about the issues that matter to them most,' Andrew Morse, CNN's chief digital officer, said in a statement.
It will initially be integrated into the existing CNN app, according to Variety, with a price for the service still to be announced.
CNN officials announced on Monday they will be launching a new streaming service called 'CNN+,' which will debut in the United States next year
It will initially be integrated into the network's existing app, seen here
The live, daily programming will be separate from that of the network, as lucrative, long-term deals between the network and cable and satellite companies prohibit it from selling its live programming to streaming services.
Instead, the company announced, CNN+ will act as a 'parallel track to serve both existing cable subscribers who want additional programming and customers who do not have cable at all.'
The live programming on it will offer 'topical deep dives and lifestyle content from some of CNN's most prominent talent as well as several new faces,' who will delve into topics such as race, climate change, space and science.
It will also include non-fiction programs, like 'Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown,' and 'Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy,' as well as other unscripted series and films developed specifically for the new subscription service, which will also allow viewers to interface directly with the hosts - something CNN has experimented with in town-hall discussions about the coronavirus pandemic.
'CNN invented cable news in 1980, defined online news in 1995 and now is taking an important step in expanding what news can be by launching a direct-to-consumer streaming subscription service in 2022,' Jeff Zucker, chairman of Warner Media news and sports, and president of CNN Worldwide, said in a statement.
'On top of a television offering that has never been stronger, which remains at the core of what we do today, we will offer consumers a streaming product that grows the reach and scope of the CNN brand in a way that no one else is doing.
'Nothing like this exists,' he said.
Morse explained that the streaming service is 'not going to be a news headline service,' More said, calling the new service 'very different from anything else that's on the market.'
At launch, he said, the service will be focused primarily on videos, but 'as we understand how customers are consuming the service, we can totally think about new kinds of formats, including podcasts and long-form articles.'
The streaming service will feature some of the network's original shows, like 'Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown,' and will include original programming
