Paramount+ Increases Prices Amid Enhanced Content Investments
Paramount+ is set to implement price increases for its streaming service starting in early 2026. This decision comes as the company boosts its investment in enhanced content, which includes new partnerships and original programming. CEO David Ellison emphasized that expanding the streaming service remains the company’s top priority.
Price Changes for Paramount+
According to a shareholder letter released on Tuesday, the Essential (ad-supported) plan will increase by $1 to $8.99 per month, while the Premium (ad-free) plan will rise by $1 to $13.99 per month. Additionally, annual subscriptions will see adjustments as follows:
- Essential plan: $89.99 per year
- Premium plan: $139.99 per year
Investment in Content
The planned price adjustments aim to support a robust investment exceeding $1.5 billion in 2026. This funding will enhance direct-to-consumer offerings, including investments in UFC programming and Paramount+ Originals. The company has recently signed a significant seven-year, $7.7 billion deal with TKO, the parent company of UFC (and WWE), allowing Paramount+ to stream multiple UFC events in the U.S.
Ellison highlighted the importance of live sports in driving engagement and attracting new audiences. He noted that agreements with the UFC will help boost retention rates and increase long-term monetization opportunities.
Upcoming Programming Highlights
Paramount+ is committed to delivering a diverse slate of original content. This includes:
- Tulsa King – currently its most-watched title
- Landman – upcoming season
- Dexter: Resurrection – renewal announced
- Final season of Yellowjackets
In addition, the company plans to introduce an Originals launch calendar, allowing for more consistent content releases throughout the year.
Subscriber Growth and Revenue
In the latest quarter, Paramount+ welcomed 1.4 million new subscribers, bringing the total to 79 million. This figure reflects growth from 77.7 million in the previous quarter. The total direct-to-consumer revenue reached $2.1 billion, marking a 17 percent increase year-over-year, driven largely by a 24 percent rise in Paramount+ revenue.
Looking ahead, Ellison anticipates that the direct-to-consumer segment will achieve profitability in 2026, signaling strong potential for continued growth in the streaming market.
