After multiple reports that the new CNN+ subscription streaming service was struggling to attract viewers, CNN and Warner Bros. Discovery announced recently that CNN+ will cease operations effective April 30 -- just a month after its launch. The company said customers will be able to receive prorated refunds of their subscription fees as a result of its closure.
Alongside the news, the service's chief exec Andrew Morse, EVP and chief digital officer of CNN Worldwide and head of CNN+, is also leaving the company after a transition period.
This could be one of the fastest shutdowns in streaming anyone have ever seen, much like Quibi.
"As we become Warner Bros. Discovery, CNN will be strongest as part of WBD’s streaming strategy which envisions news as an important part of a compelling broader offering along with sports, entertainment and nonfiction content," said Chris Licht, chairman and CEO of CNN Worldwide, in a statement about the service's closure.
"We have therefore made the decision to cease operations of CNN+ and focus our investment on CNN’s core news-gathering operations and in further building CNN Digital. This is not a decision about quality; we appreciate all of the work, ambition and creativity that went into building CNN+, an organization with terrific talent and compelling programming. But our customers and CNN will be best served with a simpler streaming choice," Licht added.
CNN+ was already showing poor adoption after its 29 March 2022 debut, reports said.
According to CNBC's sources, fewer than 10,000 people were using the service on a daily basis after its first two weeks.
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