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State of the Screens

CNN thinks it’s figured out what a post-cable network looks like, and it’s betting $70 million on…

By May 2, 2018No Comments

What is Great Big Story? A streaming video network that primarily creates 3–5 minute videos.

How is CNN involved? CNN recently invested $40m ($70m total) in GBS at an estimated valuation of $250m.

The average age for each network:
1)
CNN — 58
2)
Great Big Story — 27

Facebook and YouTube have been primary distribution channels up to this point.

What is GBS going to do with the capital? Creating content around the clock will be an immediate step.

Stealth cable network? The move to 24-hour content should get them added on streaming pay-TV services like Sling TV and DirecTV Now.

Their content currently reaches 30–60m people per week.

Users watching on a connected-TV have an average session of 38 minutes.

Michael Beach

Michael Beach is the Chief Executive Officer of Cross Screen Media, a media analytics and software company that enables marketers to plan, activate, and measure CTV and linear TV at the local level. Michael is also the founder and editor of State of the Screens, a weekly newsletter focused on video advertising that is a must-read for thought leaders in the advertising industry. He has appeared in such publications as PBS Frontline, The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Axios, CNBC and Bloomberg, and on NPR’s Planet Money podcast.