Variety: ABC is prepping exclusive content for its streaming service
CBS isn't the only major network getting into the exclusive content game. According to Variety, ABC is planning to do the same. The programming will be available through WatchABC and the first show is said to be a scripted project starring stand-up comedian Iliza Shlesinger. You might remember Shlesinger from her Netflix specials. What's more, the network doesn't plan to use the new platform only as a means of keeping its properties to itself, but rather a testing grounds of sorts. If a show does well there, it could make the jump to primetime. If you'll recall, WatchABC provides live TV broadcasts (in some markets) and access to both to new and past episodes of shows, some of which require a paid subscription. Details are scarce on how much of the new exclusive content will require a pay TV plan, but this report follows similar moves by other networks.
CBS recently announced plans for a new Star Trek series that'll only be available through its All Access subscription. As Variety points out, the strategy for ABC could be twofold: cater to young viewers who prefer to watch on a mobile device (like CW Seed does) and offering a boost to its own streaming service. ABC's shows are available on Hulu, which its parent company Disney-ABC Television Group owns a piece of, as well as a host of other places. We're sure to get more details before what's been internally labeled as "ABC3" launches, which will reportedly happen next year.
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