Comcast Chief on TV Division’s Future and Cable Channel Spinoff: ‘We’re Running a Broadcast-Plus- Streaming Strategy’

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During the Q4 earnings discussion, executives at NBCUniversal shared an interesting statistic that highlights why Comcast is planning to split off most of NBCU’s cable networks into a separate entity. It turns out that approximately 98% of the viewing on NBCUniversal channels through the Peacock streamer is primarily influenced by the NBC broadcast network and Bravo.

During a discussion with financial analysts, Brian Roberts, both chairman and CEO of Comcast, underscored that NBCUniversal has a robust plan for managing NBC and Bravo – the cable network Comcast will keep – in harmony with its active Universal Studio TV production division. It’s important to note that NBCUniversal won’t solely concentrate on its Peacock streaming platform for television content. Instead, they aim to develop a more cohesive strategy to attract audiences across NBC, Bravo, and Peacock platforms.

Mike Cavanagh, president of Comcast and in charge of NBCUniversal, stated that we’re not solely focusing on a strategy for Peacock. Instead, we’re implementing a strategy that combines broadcasting and streaming, aiming to enhance this blend in the years to come.

Regarding the channels that will be split off as a standalone entity – CNBC, MSNBC, USA Network, Syfy, Oxygen, E! and Golf Channel – Cavanagh noted, “These channels were not central to our focus on Peacock and NBC’s streaming future. They would benefit more and have better prospects for our shareholders under the management of a strong leadership team.” This team was recently revealed earlier this month, with veteran NBCUniversal executive Mark Lazarus at its helm.

Previously during our conversation, Cavanagh emphasized that NBCU is expected to remain among the biggest global media corporations, generating approximately $40 billion in yearly income.

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2025-01-30 17:46