Paramount+ launches

ViacomCBS has launched Paramount+, its major entry into the streaming wars.

The SVOD, a rebranded version of CBS All Access, launches with more than 30,000 TV episodes and films from ViacomCBS’s brands and production studios including BET, CBS, Comedy Central, MTV, Nickelodeon, Paramount Pictures and the Smithsonian Channel.

The streamer also has an extensive sports lineup, including live coverage of the UEFA Champions league, NCAA Men’s Basketball Championship, NFL and The Masters.

Paramount+ initially launches in the US, Canada and 18 Latin American countries with multiple tiers. The top premium tier is available for US$9.99 per month, and includes live sports, a linear feed of the CBS network, and ad-free on-demand viewing. There is also a temporary US$5.99 ad-supported tier which includes local live CBS station programming, but this will only be available until June at which point a US$4.99 tier will take its place without the live CBS programming.

ViacomCBS has confirmed that Paramount+ will expand into the Nordics on March 25, with it rolling out in Australia as a rebrand and expansion of 10 All Access later in 2021. The company is yet to confirm additional rollouts in Europe.

Tom Ryan, President and Chief Executive Officer, ViacomCBS Streaming, said: “The launch of Paramount+, which builds on our legacy of innovation and superior storytelling, is a significant milestone for ViacomCBS that demonstrates our commitment to being a global leader in streaming. By combining fresh original content with live and on-demand programming and an established library of titles from world-class entertainment brands, we have created an unrivaled service that offers live sports, breaking news and entertainment for all audiences.”