Get ready for ‘Trump TV,’ because it appears to be on the horizon.
A report Friday by the UK’s Daily Mail notes that the Trump Media and Technology Group is currently seeking new staffers for a video streaming platform that the company will pit against current behemoths including Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+.
In recruitment adverts posted on Wednesday, “the company announced it was seeking a content buyer and a development manager to create programming for its TMTG+ service,” the report said. “The service is part of Trump’s attempt to build an alternative media ecosystem after being kicked off Facebook and YouTube in the wake of the January 6 violence last year.”
According to the advertisement, the streaming service plans to offer a range of programming, some of which is original and some brought in from elsewhere, like existing platforms.
“Trump Media & Technology Group’s streaming video on demand service will be a ‘Big Tent’ platform offering broad-based entertainment rooted in free speech,” it says. “The American public is seeking ‘non-woke’ entertainment, and TMTG+ will provide content for all to enjoy.
“In addition to the social media platform Truth Social, our SVOD platform TMTG+ will be the home for a wide variety of non-scripted, scripted, and original content,” it adds.
The content development manager will work on the development of new programming, casting for roles, and pilots.
“In addition to the Social Media platform Truth Social, our [streaming video on demand] platform TMTG+ will be the home for a wide variety of non-scripted, scripted, and original content,” the ad continues.
“The team at Trump Media & Technology Group Streaming Video is seeking a Content Development Manager with a passion for day-to-day development of the TMTG+ programming slate,” the posting adds. “The role will generate and develop internal concepts for original unscripted content, short form series episodes and specials. Our ideal candidate will be able to establish priorities and multi-task efficiently within a fast-paced environment while meeting strict deadlines.”
Among the responsibilities listed include managing projects in development “including paper development, casting and pilots, responding to pitches from outside producers and evaluate strength in relation to SVOD direction,” plus staying “current on developing trends at networks, AVOD and SVOD platforms and identify relevant programming opportunities, as well as stay aware of emerging talent and upcoming non-scripted programming.”
Requirements include four-plus years of development experience, “at either a network, production company, digital content producer or streamer,” with applicants having a Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent, relevant experience.
“Excellent writing and storytelling skills; proficient at writing notes and giving direction,” is also a requirement.
The announcement comes on the heels of the failure of CNN+, a streaming news offering by CNN that flopped and was canceled less than a month after being launched.
One of the former streaming network’s biggest hires was Chris Wallace, who left Fox News after 18 years to join CNN+. But now that it has closed shop, Wallace is headed to HBO Max.
“Chris Wallace will get a second chance for his interview show after CNN+ was pulled off the air, with the series reportedly moving to HBO Max. Wallace’s show Who’s Talking To Chris Wallace will move to the HBO streaming service, where new owners Warner Bros. Discovery are focusing their cord-cutting investments,” the Daily Mail reported separately.
“Meanwhile, the fate of other talent recruited for CNN+ remains up in the air, including food-media star Roman, former NPR host Audie Cornish, ex-NBC News host Kasie Hunt, and sports commentators Jemele Hill and Rex Chapman. Monday marked the first official workday for new CNN boss Chris Licht, who suggested he will move the network away from opinion-led shows that have dominated over the last few years,” the report added.
Wallace, who abruptly left Fox News to join CNN’s new streaming service before it was doomed after just a few weeks, recently spoke about everything that has happened.
“I am going to be fine,” Wallace said during a panel discussion hosted by the Common Ground Committee. “I’m in good shape, whether it’s at CNN or someplace else.”