Netflix in talks with Hollywood studios for new tier with ads

The Netflix logo is seen on a TV remote controller, in this illustration taken Jan. 20, 2022. Image: Reuters/Dado Ruvic

Netflix Inc. is looking to tweak its programming deals with Hollywood studios to enable the streaming pioneer’s launch of an advertising-supported version of its service, the Wall Street Journal reported on Tuesday.

The company has started talks with Warner Bros., Universal and Sony Pictures Television, the report said, citing people familiar with the matter.

It will also need to renegotiate agreements for older television shows such as “Breaking Bad” from Sony and “NCIS” from Paramount Global, according to the report.

Netflix told Reuters it is still in the early days of deciding how to launch a lower priced, ad-supported option, and added that it is all just speculation at this point.

Warner Bros., Universal and Sony did not immediately respond to Reuters requests for comment.

Earlier in June, co-chief executive officer Ted Sarandos said Netflix is in talks with several companies for advertising partnerships. Read full story

After losing subscribers for the first time in a decade and projecting a two million decline in the upcoming quarter, Netflix said in April it was considering the launch of a lower-priced tier with advertising.

Netflix’s most formidable challenger, Walt Disney Co.’s Disney+, has also said it would introduce an ad-supported tier, as the pandemic boom in streaming fades, competition tightens and rising inflation pinches consumer spending on entertainment. JB

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