By Mallory Mattingly
Two new streaming services, FOX One and Disney’s ESPN flagship service, both launched last Thursday. The two networks hope the streamers bring in more consumers, but did they also just seal cable’s fate?
According to Variety, both streaming platforms have a goal to reach “the tens of millions of ‘cord cutters’ who don’t subscribe to cable or satellite and who still might want to watch ESPN’s NFL and NBA telecasts or studio shows, or Fox’s MLB games, Fox News programs or selections from the Fox broadcast network.”
For sports fans who’ve held onto cable, these streamers offer the perfect opportunity to ditch traditional TV.
Related: How the FOX ONE and ESPN Bundle Will Work
“Athletes give us a sense of hope, belonging, & motivation to be great in our own individual way,” ESPN wrote on Instagram of the new platform. “We’ll always be a vehicle that allows sports to aspire the next generation. All of the feels, all in one place.”
But ESPN and Fox want to hold onto their legacy TV audiences, too.
“The traditional MVPD ecosystem is still important. This has been very important to our business historically, and it’s going to continue to be very important to our business as we move forward,” said ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro. “We are running parallel paths here.”
However, the pair’s bundle, which launches Oct. 2, is likely yet another nail in cable’s coffin.
For just $39.99 a month, it offers fans every game that airs “on the family of FOX and ESPN networks, along with accessing content featured on the FOX One and ESPN’s new direct-to-consumer apps,” Fox Sports said.
“Working with FOX One on this bundle offer allows us to bring ESPN’s world-class sports content to even more fans in a seamless and innovative way,” said Sean Breen, EVP, Disney Platform Distribution. “This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to delivering premium experiences across platforms and meeting consumers where they are — anytime, anywhere.”
“Announcing ESPN as our first bundle partner is evidence of our desire to deliver the best possible value and viewing experience to our shared customers,” Tony Billetter, SVP, Strategy and Business Development, FOX Direct to Consumer, added. “Viewers will have access to an incredible portfolio of content through this bundle, including NFL, NBA, WNBA, MLB, NHL, College Football and Basketball, NASCAR, INDYCAR, UFC, as well as the upcoming FIFA World Cup, and more as we continue to look for opportunities to streamline the user experience, especially for the ultimate sports fan.”
Time will tell if cable can hang on as streaming’s reach continues to grow.
Read Next: The Day Cable TV Died
Questions or comments? Please write to us here.
– Content: +2Share:
– Content: +1