CNN’s upcoming streaming service CNN+ will launch in Q1 2022, WarnerMedia announced today. The streaming service will offer a “new, additive experience” to go alongside CNN’s linear networks for those who want more news and CNN programming.
CNN will continue to have a single app where CNN+ subscribers can access CNN+ programing and pay TV subscribers can continue to access CNN content including CNN, CNN International, HLN and CNN en Español channels with TV Everywhere. Pay TV customers can also opt to subscribe to CNN+ for the full app experience.
“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,” said Jeff Zucker, Chairman of WarnerMedia News and Sports and President of CNN Worldwide. “As the most trusted and recognized name in news, CNN has unrivaled global reach, world class talent and a deep existing library of content including award winning series and films. 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.”
CNN+ will feature live and on demand programming, distinct from CNN, CNN International, HLN and CNN en Español linear TV channels. The streaming service will have 8-12 hours of live, daily programming at launch. Viewers will recognize some CNN hosts, alongside new faces, all having real time conversations about current events.
CNN+ will also have a library of on demand programming including past seasons of CNN series and films. Titles will include Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown, Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy, This is Life with Lisa Ling, and United Shades of America with W. Kamau Bell. Original series will be added, with upcoming titles to be announced later this year.
More information will be released later this year, ahead of the launch in early 2022.