NBCU to launch subscription-based comedy streaming service
NBC Universal aims to launch a comedy-based subscription web video service later in the year, people with knowledge of the plans say, reported the Wall Street Journal.
The service would likely feature “The Tonight Show” starring Jimmy Fallon and “Saturday Night Live” along with original series, according to the Journal.
The firm’s foray into comedy streaming is likely to be the first in a number of innovations according to Elisabeth Sami, SVP of strategy and development of the media firm.
Speaking at an event organized by marketing platform Taboola, she told the audience that the company deems experimentation as a fundamental prerequisite in terms of keeping key talent on board.
“In the short term we will monetize through pre-roll and post-roll, eventually moving to a subscription model," she said of the streaming service.
"However, there is always value in giving people a taste of the content before you start charging,” she added.
She also cited the example of MSNBC Morning Joe host Mika Brzezinski, author of best-selling book “Knowing Your Value,” as key talent for NBC. She is to be supported this year in terms of developing live events designed to support women in the workplace.