# **Max Streaming Service Limits Access to CNN and B/R Sports for Ad-Free Subscribers**
Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) has revealed a significant update to its Max streaming platform, restricting CNN Max and Bleacher Report (B/R) Sports availability solely to ad-free subscribers starting March 30. This shift represents a change in WBD’s strategy regarding the delivery of live news and sports content on its service.
## **Modifications to CNN Max and B/R Sports Accessibility**
At present, all Max subscribers, including those utilizing the ad-supported tier, can view CNN Max and B/R Sports. However, from March 30 onward, only those who subscribe to Max’s pricier ad-free options will maintain access to these live news and sports channels.
JB Perrette, CEO and president of global streaming and games at WBD, noted that the decision was made after more than a year of studying user interaction with live news and sports material on Max.
> “We’ve been diligently seeking ways to enhance the sports distribution landscape in the US. We believe the ideal location for that content, for now, is within the Standard and Premium tiers,” stated Perrette.
He further mentioned that this alteration would enable ongoing investment in WBD’s premium sports and news content.
## **Subscriber Impact**
This change is likely to displease some subscribers who chose the ad-supported tier for cost-effectiveness. The price gap is considerable:
– **Ad-supported plan:** $10 per month or $100 yearly
– **Ad-free plan:** $17 per month or $170 yearly (a 70% rise)
Importantly, the live content being excluded from the ad-supported tier already features advertisements, making this transition particularly controversial for cost-sensitive subscribers.
When CNN Max launched in September 2023, WBD initially pledged that it would be accessible to all Max subscribers at no additional charge. However, the company has since reversed this commitment, as indicated by updates on the CNN Max website.
## **B/R Sports and the Outlook for Live Streaming**
B/R Sports was introduced on Max in October 2023, with WBD initially intending to impose an additional $10 monthly fee for access after a promotional phase. Nevertheless, the company has now opted not to sell B/R Sports as a standalone add-on “for the time being.”
This decision comes during a wider industry movement toward live sports content, with streaming services pouring billions into acquiring broadcasting rights. For instance, Netflix recently finalized a **$5 billion agreement** to stream WWE Raw, while other platforms are fiercely competing for significant sports events.
During a recent investor conference, WBD CEO David Zaslav acknowledged the escalating costs of sports rights, remarking:
> “Some of the prices being paid are becoming more challenging. We don’t require any more sports anywhere globally to support our business.”
Instead, Zaslav highlighted the necessity of concentrating on movies and TV series that WBD can hold long-term.
## **Max’s Expansion and Financial Results**
In spite of these changes, Max has experienced considerable growth. WBD’s Q4 2024 earnings report indicates:
– The company acquired **6.4 million** new direct-to-consumer (DTC) subscribers across Max, Discovery+, and HBO.
– Max’s subscriber count rose by **20% year-over-year** in 2024.
– WBD’s DTC division reported an annual profit of **$677 million**, a substantial increase from **$103 million** in 2023.
With **116.9 million total DTC subscribers**, Max remains a significant contender in the streaming sector. However, the decision to limit CNN Max and B/R Sports to ad-free subscribers might challenge customer loyalty, especially as streaming costs continue to climb.
## **Conclusion**
WBD’s choice to restrict access to CNN Max and B/R Sports for ad-free subscribers reflects wider industry patterns, where streaming services are reorganizing their pricing strategies to maximize revenue. While this decision might enhance profits, it risks alienating cost-conscious users who have already accommodated ads as part of their viewing experience.
As the streaming environment evolves, it remains uncertain if WBD’s approach will succeed—or drive more subscribers toward rival platforms.
