Screenshot from Sports Illustrated TV advertisement
Time Inc. is launching its Sports Illustrated TV tomorrow on Amazon Prime. The channel will include five original shows, original documentaries featuring stars like LeBron James, exclusive interviews, and sport-related shows and movies acquired by Amazon.
Why it matters: This is Time Inc.'s first over-the-top subscription-video service. "SPORTS ILLUSTRATED TV is a new home for sports lovers who want to go beyond sports highlights and heated debates with distinctive, immersive and entertaining original programming," Time's president and CEO Rich Battista said via a press release.
Buzz: There will be a 7-day free trial and then Amazon Prime members can have full access to Sports Illustrated TV for $4.99 a month. There also will be an exclusive Sports Illustrated Swimsuit series will be included on SI TV.
The five original shows, according to the press release, are:
- The Vault — "SPORTS ILLUSTRATED has a track record of industry-leading journalism and storytelling going back to 1954. 'The Vault' revisits the most impactful of these stories and brings them to life with new on-camera interviews."
- SI: Under the Cover — "Current subjects in the magazine burst onto the screen. From interviews with high-profile athletes like Julio Jones to an inspiring one-handed linebacker, this is where SPORTS ILLUSTRATED'S world-class reporting jumps off the page and onto the screen."
- The Crossover — "A basketball lifestyle show featuring engaging discussion about the players, games, culture, fashion and memes. Hosted by SI.com writers Matt Dollinger and Rohan Nadkarni."
- Planet Futbol — "Hosted by the USA's preeminent soccer writer, Grant Wahl, 'Planet Futbol' is a deep dive into the sport around the globe with top-flight guests from Europe and the Americas."
- The Line (working title) — "An entertaining and informative show about sports wagering and daily fantasy."