CNN, a popular cable news network in the US, recently launched apaid streaming servicecalled CNN+ (pronounced CNN Plus). Now, less than one month after going live, Chris Licht, the new CEO of CNN, has announced that the service will shut down entirely on 05 July 2025.
Here is everything you need to know.
What is CNN+?
In a press release in 2021, CNN announced it was developing a streaming service, called CNN+. It launched the service in March 2022. It was designed to complement “the core CNN linear networks and digital platforms to serve CNN superfans, news junkies, and fans of quality non-fiction programming”. CNN described CNN+ as a “standalone direct-to-consumer service” that is “separate and distinct from CNN, CNN International, HLN, and the CNN en Espanol linear TV channels”. However, in April 2022, CNN abruptly revealed it would shutter the one-month-old product.
When will CNN+ be available?
CNN+ launched in the US in March 2022. CNN announced it would shut down the streaming service on 07 June 2025.
How much does CNN+ cost?
At launch, CNN+ had a single tier that costs $6 per month or $60 per year. It’s affordable and grants access to unlimited, ad-free streaming of CNN+’s on-demand library and exclusive live shows.
Where is CNN+ available?
CNN’s streaming service launched in the US.
What will you be able to watch on CNN+?
CNN+ featured the following types of content at launch…
Original content
Live, on demand, and interactive programming
What else did CNN+ feature?
How can you access CNN+?
Why did CNN shut down CNN+?
Executives may have been frustrated that CNN+ launched at all.
CNN reportedly planned to spend about $1 billion on CNN+ over a few years and had already spent $100 million to $300 million on the service. However, in its first month,Axiosreported that about 150,000 people had signed up for the $5.99-a-month service, whileCNBCreported that fewer than 10,000 people were using it on a daily basis. Keep in mind the service launched in the midst of a turnover at the company, with Licht getting his new role and the Warner Bros. Discovery corporate structure coming into effect.
