In a groundbreaking move, Warner Bros. Discovery has recently cemented its position by acquiring BluTV, a prominent subscription video-on-demand service situated in Turkey. This strategic acquisition marks a pivotal point in the company’s endeavours to bolster its global streaming presence.
The union between Warner Bros. Discovery and BluTV is the culmination of a longstanding partnership that commenced in 2021, catapulting with the launch of Discovery+ on BluTV. Notably, this alliance also saw investment by Discovery Inc., securing a substantial 35 per cent stake in BluTV. Following this trajectory of collaboration, the acquisition of BluTV by Warner Bros. Discovery further solidifies their shared commitment to fostering innovative entertainment solutions.
BluTV heralded for its premium originals, Turkish TV series, and an extensive array of Hollywood and international content, initially emerged in Turkey in 2016 before expanding its footprint into the Middle East and Northern Africa region in 2018. Boasting a diverse library, BluTV offers a staggering 10,000 hours of on-demand premium content and live channels to its subscribers globally, catering not only to Turkish and Arabic-speaking audiences but also to a wider international viewer base.
This acquisition amplifies the streaming giant’s repository, incorporating revered Hollywood productions such as The Last of Us, The Handmaid’s Tale, and the timeless classic, Friends. With an impressive lineup of 26 original productions and an ever-expanding catalogue, BluTV has steadily carved its niche in the competitive streaming landscape.
Moreover, the strategic collaboration between Discovery+ and BluTV in 2021 facilitated an enriched viewing experience for subscribers, granting access to an array of renowned brands like Discovery Channel, TLC, DMAX, ID, and live sports via Eurosport 1 and 2. The subsequent inclusion of HBO content, along with esteemed kids’ channels Cartoon Network and Cartoonito, further augmented BluTV’s allure, featuring iconic series such as Game of Thrones, Sex and the City, and the beloved classic, Tom & Jerry.
David Zaslav, CEO of Warner Bros. Discovery, emphasized the company’s commitment to amplifying growth initiatives, framing the acquisition of BluTV within the broader context of their global expansion strategy. This move signifies a significant stride in fortifying their foothold in the ever-evolving streaming sphere.
Commenting on the acquisition, Jamie Cooke, GM CEE, Middle East & Turkey of Warner Bros. Discovery, expressed enthusiasm for integrating BluTV into their portfolio. Cooke highlighted the fusion of captivating Turkish content with a rich array of international series, epitomizing an unparalleled formula for local relevance and global success.
The acquisition of BluTV stands as a testament to Warner Bros. Discovery’s unwavering dedication to innovation, setting the stage for an exciting chapter in the evolution of global streaming services.
