Warner Bros to split cable and streaming businesses in major restructuring

As cable television continues to experience stagnation, with the trend of cord-cutting growing stronger each year, Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) is adapting to the evolving media landscape by separating its streaming and cable operations. This landmark decision aims to maximize the potential of both businesses, according to WBD.

The company announced Monday its plan to split into two publicly traded entities: The Streaming & Studios division, which will include Warner Bros. Television, Motion Picture Group, DC Studios, HBO, and HBO Max; and Global Networks, featuring CNN, TNT Sports in the U.S., Discovery, and Bleacher Report.

Notably, Discovery+ will not be included in the Streaming segment, indicating that WBD may not prioritize it as much as HBO Max.

Recently, HBO Max reverted to its original branding, emphasizing the company’s commitment to premium content, in contrast to Discovery titles, which have underperformed, leading to several removals.

This decision reflects a broader trend among media companies, such as Comcast’s spinoff of NBCUniversal’s cable channels last year.