In a virtual MVPD market in which products look largely the same, Hulu has managed to stretch a little separation between itself and the pack, announcing a carriage deal with the CW Network.
According to Hulu, subscribers to its livestreaming service will have access to live feeds and on-demand content from the CW “soon.” Hulu recently announced that it has carved out deals with more than 200 network affiliates, many with stations associated with CW co-owner CBS Corp. It’s unclear, however, as to how many markets the CW will be available to on Hulu Live outside of those in which the network has an owned and operated station.
“The live streams are coming soon. Will start in select markets and we’ll continue to add additional affiliate stations,” Hulu spokeswoman Shannon Prior told FierceCable.
RELATED: Hulu Live adds 12 more CBS stations, up to 115
Generally regarded as the nation’s fifth broadcast network, the CW is a joint venture between CBS and Warner Bros. Entertainment. The network isn't touted on the channel lineups of rival vMVPD services including Sling TV, DirecTV Now, YouTube TV and Sony PlayStation Vue. However, Fubo TV recently signed a deal with CBS Corp. that includes CW access.
“The CW has long attracted younger audiences to live TV, so we are very happy to offer the network through Hulu’s new live service,” said Tim Connolly, senior VP of strategic partnerships & distribution for Hulu.
Skewing younger and more female than the Big Four broadcast networks, The CW touts the new hit series “Riverdale" and the long-running fan favorite “Supernatural.” The network is also home to DC Comics-inspired titles “Supergirl,” “DC’s Legends of Tomorrow,” “Arrow” and “The Flash.”
CW series have long been popular assets on Hulu's subscription video-on-demand service.