Paramount unveils Showtime integration plan, hints at job cuts

Global media company Paramount has announced plans to integrate its flagship Showtime brand into its streaming service Paramount+. From later this year, the service, known for its high end scripted series, will be known as Paramount+ with Showtime, across both the streamer and linear platforms in the US.

Bob Bakish

Explaining the move, Paramount CEO Bob Bakish said: “Almost one year ago we announced that ViacomCBS would become Paramount, harnessing the power of our combined portfolio to become one, integrated company. In that same spirit, we’re announcing we will be integrating Showtime into Paramount+ across both streaming and linear platforms later this year. Our premium streaming tier on Paramount+ and the Showtime linear network will become Paramount+ with Showtime in the US.”

Explaining why Paramount has decided to preserve the Showtime brand, Bakish said: “Showtime has captivated audiences for decades with ambitious original series that defined premium content and fandom. Its name will always stand for groundbreaking entertainment and creative excellence. Now, with its content integrated into our flagship streaming service, and select Paramount+ originals joining the linear offering, Paramount+ will become the definitive multiplatform brand in the streaming space – and the first of its kind to integrate streaming and linear content in this way.”

Bakish added: “This change will drive stronger alignment across our domestic and international Paramount+ offerings, as international Paramount+ already includes Showtime content. And, very importantly, this integration will unlock operational efficiencies and financial benefits across our broader portfolio.”

The phrase operational efficiencies suggests another wave of job cuts could be on the way for the media sector. Alluding to this, Bakish said: “We know this change brings uncertainty for the teams working on these brands and businesses. We are committed to being as transparent and thoughtful as possible throughout this process, and we expect to share additional details in the coming weeks.”

Warner Bros Discovery is going through a similar process of introspection as it decides how to create a unified global streaming platform while protecting its HBO brand.