Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) has filed a lawsuit against Sling TV, alleging that the provider's "day pass" offering of WBD networks violates their distribution agreement. This action mirrors a similar lawsuit filed by Disney against Sling.
WBD argues that Sling TV's day pass, which allows subscribers 24-hour, weekend, or weeklong access to its channels, including CNN, contravenes their contract. The agreement reportedly only permits monthly access. WBD suggests Sling Orange, the service offering the day passes, presents a significant threat to its direct-to-consumer streaming strategy and its deals with other pay TV providers.
WBD is preparing the launch of its own standalone CNN streaming service. The inclusion of CNN in Sling Orange is a key point of contention. Disney’s concerns reportedly stemmed from Sling Orange's inclusion of ESPN, given Disney’s own direct-to-consumer streaming offering. Interestingly, Fubo, a Sling competitor, offers a “skinny” sports package including ESPN, but not WBD channels, without apparent legal issues.
WBD and ESPN were previously partnered with Fox Corp. on the now-canceled Venu Sports streaming venture. Despite this legal action, WBD channels remain accessible through a range of traditional and virtual MVPDs, although not typically as "skinny" bundles.