Staff Reports
In a clear display of desperation, CNN is making another attempt to resurrect its dying network by considering a move to the Max streaming platform. As CNN continues to struggle with plummeting ratings and a series of internal shakeups, parent company Warner Bros. Discovery is scrambling to find a solution to keep the failing network afloat.
CNN has been hemorrhaging viewers for years, with an average of less than 500,000 viewers tuning in. Recently, they experienced their worst-ever numbers during the coveted 4 pm to midnight time slot. While the staff may be celebrating their newfound freedom to return to their biased reporting, the executives are left with throbbing headaches.
The proposed move to Max is an attempt to expand CNN’s audience share and attract younger viewers who have abandoned traditional cable in favor of digital platforms. However, this idea is not without its challenges. CNN+ , a previous streaming service launched by the network, was a complete disaster, costing the company hundreds of millions of dollars. The stain of that failure will surely taint any future streaming endeavors by CNN.
One major challenge facing Warner Bros. Discovery is the legalities surrounding their cable contracts. These contracts require CNN to be the exclusive host of live programming, making it difficult to simultaneously stream content on other platforms. While other network news outlets have found ways around this, CBS News, ABC News, and NBC News NOW face similar restrictions with their streaming options.
Last year, there were discussions about moving some of CNN’s shows and talent to HBO Max, but ultimately, the decision was made to cut their losses instead. Now, in light of Chris Licht’s departure as CEO, the idea is being revisited. However, the decision to pull the plug on CNN+ was not solely up to Licht. It was a result of upper-level talks considering the hefty expenses and lack of subscriptions, indicating years of financial loss.
While a streaming option may seem like a possible solution for CNN’s declining viewership, the reality is that no other network has had much success with their streaming services either. Warner Bros. Discovery is grasping for any positive influence on growth at this point, even if it means the inmates at CNN celebrate their return to biased reporting while the executives struggle to regain control.
Desperation Displayed as the Attempt to Resurrect CNN Involves Possible Move to Max Streaming Platform https://t.co/m9U5Rn2qaA
— RedState (@RedState) June 29, 2023
It’s no surprise that CNN is desperately clinging to any lifeline it can find. The network has become a laughingstock, a shadow of its former self. Its bias and lack of journalistic integrity have driven away viewers in droves. It’s time for CNN to face the hard truth that their brand of journalism is no longer relevant or trusted. Moving to a streaming platform may provide a temporary boost, but it won’t solve the underlying issues plaguing the network. Perhaps it’s time for CNN to consider a complete overhaul or bow out gracefully.
Source: Red State
