Fox News to launch digital streaming for ‘superfans’
CLEVELAND — In the increasingly competitive market for television viewers, content is king. It’s the reason why Disney, ESPN and CBS Sports are set to launch their own standalone subscription services. They soon will be joined by Fox News.
The streaming service, dubbed Fox Nation, will launch by the end of the year. Fox Nation’s programming will not overlap with the cable network’s broadcast, but, except for the occasional appearance by Sean Hannity, Tucker Carlson and the like, instead will rely on a new set anchors and commentators, The New York Times reported Monday.
The service will have original shows and could become a vehicle for the network to showcase rising personalities like Tomi Lahren.
In a press release, the network says Fox Nation “will take a deep dive into the big issues of the day with live exclusive daily streaming content and long-form programming available only to subscribers,” give viewers “access to exclusive events and 20-plus years of archival FNC programming not available anywhere else,” and promises “interaction with all of FNC’s popular opinion hosts and personalities.”
John Finley, head of program development and production for Fox News, said, “With our traditional cable viewership at an all-time high, we are proud to announce a new digital offering geared entirely toward the Fox News superfans, who represent the most loyal audience in cable, if not all of television. This initiative will capitalize on providing that viewer, who is among the most affluent and well-educated in cable, with a highly specialized content experience on a platform they can watch anytime, anywhere.”
Fox said an announcement on subscription price will come later. ESPN plans to charge $4.99 a month for its ESPN Plus service.