Streaming news service CNN+ will debut in the first quarter of 2022, CNN Worldwide said Monday morning. (Adweek)
CNN’s chief digital officer Andrew Morse, who will be the executive in charge of CNN+, remarked that this would be “the most important launch for CNN since Ted Turner launched the network in June of 1980.” (TVNewser)
The centerpiece, as you’d expect, will be the live material. CNN+ plans to offer eight to 12 hours of in-depth topical coverage and “lifestyle” material every day, with both veterans and newcomers at the helm. There will also be chances to interact with anchors and experts in real-time discussions. (TechCrunch)
Morse said CNN is still determining how much CNN+ will cost consumers and made clear the streaming service will not have any kind of ad-supported component at launch. The early 2022 launch will also be restricted to the U.S., though CNN will be looking to expand the distribution footprint worldwide for CNN+ in the months after launch. (Variety)
CNN said it will hire 450 employees across departments such as editorial, product and engineering in the next six to nine months. (NY Post)