Charter Reinvents Cable Bundles With Streaming Deals From Major Networks

For years, cable subscribers have complained about overpriced packages stuffed with channels they never watch. Now, Charter Communications is betting big on a new approach—one that fuses traditional pay-TV with the streaming revolution.
After its groundbreaking 2023 deal with Disney, which brought Disney+ and ESPN+ to select Spectrum subscribers at no extra charge, Charter is doubling down on the strategy. The company has now inked agreements with AMC Networks, Warner Bros. Discovery, and Paramount to integrate their streaming services into cable bundles, offering more value while keeping customers hooked on its ecosystem.
“In recent years, video packages have become increasingly inflexible, forcing customers to pay for programming they don’t want or can’t afford as top content moves to streaming apps,” said Tom Montemagno, Charter’s EVP of programming acquisition. “This shift in the ecosystem, combined with changing consumer preferences, highlighted the need for a new approach to the video distribution model that prioritizes customer choice and value.”
While exact details of the deals remain undisclosed, the move signals a significant transformation in the pay-TV industry. With streaming platforms struggling to reach profitability and cable providers fighting subscriber losses, this hybrid model could be the key to revitalizing both sectors.
David Zaslav, CEO of Warner Bros. Discovery, and Kim Kelleher, CCO of AMC Networks, are among the media executives betting on this revamped distribution model. Charter’s strategy may serve as a blueprint for the industry, merging the best of linear television with the flexibility of streaming.
As traditional TV and streaming continue to merge, Charter’s experiment with bundled streaming could be a game-changer. Whether it’s enough to stop cord-cutting remains to be seen, but for now, it’s a bold step toward the future of media consumption.
Film, TV, and entertainment industry news. Plus, every Friday, a special Awards Insider edition.
By signing up, you agree to our user agreement (including class action waiver and arbitration provisions), and acknowledge our privacy policy.
SiriusXM and Wondery secure top podcast deals to drive growth.
By Lars NielsenThe biggest entertainment deals of 2024 and the power players behind them.
By Lars NielsenRedBird IMI acquires All3Media, expanding its global TV production empire.
By Lars NielsenAs Disney dives into gaming with a $1.5 billion Epic Games play, Hollywood’s biggest studios are finally waking up to the power of video games as the ultimate IP gold mine.
By Lars NielsenParis 2024 boosted On Location’s hospitality, driving Endeavor’s overall growth.
By Lars Nielsen