CNN+, the cable news network’s upcoming subscription streaming service, is reportedly targeting a March 2022 launch date and a $5.99 per month price tag.
The pricing falls roughly in the center of the range the service was testing with users. In September, CNN was sending mobile user prompts that displayed potential prices ranging from $1.99 to $9.99 per month, likely as part of some product development research for CNN+. The message also mentioned a seven-day free trial.
According to Bloomberg, CNN is pulling back content including “Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown” and “Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy” from HBO Max and putting them on CNN+. The network will also reportedly stop making content for HBO Max.
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CNN+ has been building its on-air talent team ahead of the launch and recently made the surprising announcement that Fox News anchor Chris Wallace would be leaving the rival cable news network to join CNN+.
"I am thrilled to join CNN+. After decades in broadcast and cable news, I am excited to explore the world of streaming. I look forward to the new freedom and flexibility streaming affords in interviewing major figures across the news landscape—and finding new ways to tell stories," said Wallace in a statement. "As I embark on this adventure, I am honored and delighted to join Jeff Zucker and his great team. I can’t wait to get started."
CNN+ has also brought aboard Eva Longoria to host “Searching for Mexico,” which will follow the same format at Stanley Tucci’s Italy travel series.
The CNN+ launch is coming as Discovery, Inc. and WarnerMedia are nearing the finish line for their merger deal that will bring together some of the most popular cable networks including TBS, TNT, Discovery and HGTV along with major streaming services Discovery+ and HBO Max.
Last month, JB Perrette, president and CEO of Discovery Streaming and International, discussed how Warner Bros Discovery will approach combining its individual streaming technology platforms. He said there may be two phases: an initial phase that allows for quick bundling of Discovery+ and HBO Max and a second phase that allows for a common service on one tech platform. It's unclear how or if CNN+ will factor into potential service bundles from the combined company, which is anticipating to close its merger in mid-2022.