Charter Communications offers Paramount+ Essential to Spectrum TV customers
In a strategic move to retain cable TV subscribers, Charter Communications is now providing the ad-supported version of Paramount+ to all Spectrum TV Select and Mi Plan Latino packages across the nation at no extra cost. This new offering, which began on August 22, is part of a renewed multiyear distribution agreement between the two companies, initially signed in May.
A treasure trove of content
Paramount+ Essential offers streaming access to a vast array of programming from CBS, BET, Comedy Central, MTV, Nickelodeon, Paramount Pictures, and more. Spectrum video customers now have access to over 40,000 TV episodes and movies, including original series like Tulsa King, Special Ops: Lioness, SpongeBob SquarePants, and Big Brother, as well as live sports on CBS.
Enhancing the viewing experience
Tom Montemagno, executive VP of programming acquisition for Charter, emphasized the benefits of this partnership: “This collaboration not only enhances the viewing experience with access to top-rated original content and live sports, but it also creates new distribution opportunities for Paramount. It’s a significant step towards building a healthier video ecosystem that benefits both our customers and the industry as a whole.”
Future plans and pricing adjustments
Under the Paramount-Charter agreement, the cable operator also plans to introduce BET+ Essential for Spectrum TV customers sometime in 2024. This addition comes on the heels of Paramount’s recent price hike for its streaming services, effective August 20. The price of Paramount+ Essential increased by $2, now costing $7.99 per month for new subscribers, while Paramount+ With Showtime went up by $1, to $12.99 per month.
Paramount Global executives have stated that they will only count Charter customers who have activated Paramount+ Essential in their streaming subscriber counts. Although the financial terms of the deal were not disclosed, such agreements typically involve the distributor (Charter) paying a wholesale per-subscriber fee to the content owner (Paramount).
Navigating the evolving media landscape
Like many traditional media companies, Paramount Global has faced declining TV revenue and is striving to bolster its streaming business. The company has undertaken mass layoffs to cut costs and is currently in a state of flux. The board’s special committee on mergers and acquisitions is evaluating a new $6 billion bid from an investor group led by Edgar Bronfman Jr., putting on hold its deal to merge with David Ellison’s Skydance Media.
Similar deals and future outlook
The streaming components of the Paramount-Charter deal are reminiscent of the agreement Charter struck last year with Disney, which allowed select Spectrum TV customers to access Disney+ and ESPN+ at no additional charge.
Ray Hopkins, Paramount’s president of U.S. networks distribution, expressed optimism about the partnership: “Paramount and Charter have a long-shared commitment to deliver more ways for audiences to enjoy their favorite premium content as the media landscape continues to evolve. We look forward to expanding our reach and engagement with Spectrum subscribers through the addition of Paramount+ Essential for the first time, a broad household offering with something for everyone across our leading portfolio of news, sports, and entertainment programming.”
Accessing Paramount+ on Spectrum
Charter’s TV subscribers can access Paramount+ through Charter’s Xumo Stream Box or any other device that supports Paramount+. Eligible Spectrum video customers can activate their Paramount+ Essential subscription here.
Personal reflections for enthusiasts
For cinema and TV series enthusiasts, this partnership is a goldmine. Imagine diving into the gritty world of Tulsa King or the intense drama of Special Ops: Lioness without any additional cost. The inclusion of beloved classics like SpongeBob SquarePants and reality hits like Big Brother ensures there’s something for everyone.
For music lovers, the potential future addition of BET+ Essential could mean more access to exclusive music-related content and documentaries, enriching the overall entertainment experience.
In a rapidly changing media landscape, such strategic partnerships are crucial. They not only provide value to subscribers but also help traditional media companies transition smoothly into the digital age. This collaboration between Charter and Paramount is a testament to the evolving nature of content consumption and distribution, promising a richer, more diverse viewing experience for all.