CNN is launching its paid streaming service in the UK and Canada on October 20, expanding its digital push as new owner David Ellison assumes control. The broadcaster aims to build a digital subscription business generating more than $1bn in annual revenue by 2030, offsetting cable TV decline. The service, launched in the US last year, offers live news streaming, on-demand video, and unlimited online journalism at £4.99 monthly in the UK and C$7.99 in Canada. David Ellison completed his $111bn takeover of Warner Bros Discovery through Skydance, gaining control of CNN alongside CBS, HBO, and Paramount.
CNN chair Mark Thompson, retained to lead the network, says the service is already outperforming internal forecasts in the US. The expansion follows Ellison’s Skydance pledging $6bn in cost savings post-acquisition, with potential integration into Paramount+ and HBO Max while maintaining a standalone news subscription.
Source: Financial Times Companies · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing