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Rich Eisen Returns to ESPN as Part of New Streaming Service

about 1 year agoUS
Rich Eisen Returns to ESPN as Part of New Streaming ServiceSource: nytimes.com
After more than two decades, Rich Eisen is making a comeback to ESPN, joining their forthcoming direct-to-consumer (DTC) platform. This move is part of ESPN's strategy to enhance content for its new streaming service, allowing customers to access ESPN without a cable subscription.

Key Insights

Return to ESPN:: Rich Eisen will bring "The Rich Eisen Show" to ESPN from Roku in the fall, marking his return after leaving for NFL Network in 2003.

Show Details:: "The Rich Eisen Show," which airs from noon to 3 p.m. ET, may also be broadcast on ESPN Radio. This could serve as a key program for the radio network.

Ownership and Control:: Similar to the agreement with "The Pat McAfee Show," Eisen is expected to maintain ownership and editorial control of his program.

Continued Role at NFL Network:: Eisen will continue his role as the main host for NFL Network’s “GameDay” and its draft coverage, and will still call select regular-season games for the network.

ESPN's DTC Offering:: ESPN is launching a direct-to-consumer service in the fall, aiming to provide access to its content without requiring a cable subscription. Eisen’s show will also be featured on ESPN+, ESPN's current streaming-only platform, and Disney+.

Potential NFL Media Partnership:: With ESPN in advanced talks for NFL Media, the partnership between Eisen and the network could potentially expand.

In-Depth Analysis

Rich Eisen's return to ESPN signifies a strategic move by the network to bolster its direct-to-consumer offering. By licensing Eisen's popular show, ESPN aims to attract a broader audience to its streaming platform. This approach mirrors the successful model used with "The Pat McAfee Show," where ESPN licenses the program while allowing the host to retain ownership and creative control.

ESPN's forthcoming DTC service represents a significant shift in how consumers can access ESPN content. By cutting the cord, subscribers can enjoy ESPN's programming without a traditional cable package. The addition of Eisen's show, alongside other potential acquisitions, highlights ESPN's commitment to providing compelling content on its streaming platform.

The potential partnership between ESPN and NFL Media could further enhance the value of ESPN's DTC service. Integrating NFL Media assets would provide subscribers with even more access to NFL content, making the platform an essential destination for football fans.

FAQs

Q: When will "The Rich Eisen Show" move to ESPN?

The show is expected to move to ESPN in the fall.

Q: Will Rich Eisen still work for NFL Network?

Yes, he will continue to host NFL Network’s “GameDay” and its draft coverage.

Q: Will the show be available on ESPN Radio?

There is a strong possibility that the program could also air on ESPN Radio.

Q: What is ESPN's direct-to-consumer (DTC) service?

It's a new streaming service that allows customers to subscribe to ESPN without needing a cable subscription.

Key Takeaways

Rich Eisen's return to ESPN enhances the network's new streaming service.

ESPN is expanding its content offerings to attract cord-cutters.

The partnership could grow if ESPN acquires NFL Media assets.

Eisen maintains ownership and control over his show.

Discussion

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