Warner Bros. Discovery and Charter Communications announced a multi-year distribution partnership, fully integrating cable channels with streaming services like HBO Max and Discovery+.
“This innovative partnership with Charter recognizes the value of our linear content and the investments we’ve made in premium original programming, sports and news, while also significantly expanding the distribution of Max’s ad-supported service to Spectrum’s millions of Select customers,” said David Zaslav, President and CEO of Warner Bros.
Major boost for Spectrum customers
Charter, known for its flexible packages, is joining forces with WBD’s powerhouse content library. This translates to a major boost for Spectrum customers. Select packages will now include Max (Ad Lite) at no additional cost, granting access to a vast library of HBO, Max, and Discovery+ content. This represents a significant increase in value for Spectrum subscribers, with nearly $60 worth of popular streaming services bundled in at no extra charge.
“This strategic relationship with WBD further evolves the linear and broadband video distribution model and supports Spectrum’s efforts to provide flexible packages, whether through hybrid linear-DTC full video relationships, smaller video packages with DTC add-ons, or a suite of a-la-carte or bundled DTC options for broadband customers,” said Chris Winfrey, President and Chief Executive Officer, Charter Communications, which operates the Spectrum brand.
Max established as a “preferred partner” for Spectrum
The agreement doesn’t stop there. This long-term deal secures continued distribution of WBD’s popular channels like CNN, Food Network, and HGTV on Spectrum. Additionally, Max is established as a “preferred partner” for Spectrum, meaning it will be prominently featured when the company markets streaming services to its broadband subscribers.
This move reflects a broader industry shift towards a hybrid model, where traditional cable channels co-exist and complement streaming services.
