Tucker Carlson, the polarizing former Fox News commentator, this week launched the Tucker Carlson Network, a new paid streaming service. Priced at $9 per month, the service aims to capitalize on his substantial conservative following. 

This move marks a significant transition for Carlson following his controversial departure from Fox News due to a lawsuit involving election fraud claims. Since leaving Fox, he has been busy maintaining a robust online presence, especially on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), indicating his sustained influence. He also previously co-founded and later sold his stake in the Daily Caller. 

His new subscription-based venture places him in a competitive streaming landscape, notably charging more than similar right-of-center platforms. The Tucker Carlson Network is owned and operated by Last Country, Inc.  When Last Country was launched earlier this year, it was reported that its goals were to offer longer videos behind a subscription paywall. It subsequently raised $15 million from 1789 Capital in October, leading to this week’s debut of the Tucker Carlson Network.

The Tucker Carlson Network offers a variety of content, including interviews, documentaries, and a direct Q&A feature with subscribers. including shows like “The Tucker Carlson Encounter,” “Tucker Carlson Uncensored,” and “Ask Tucker.” Additionally, the platform plans to release full-length films and documentaries. 

The executives leading the Tucker Carlson Network include Neil Patel as the Chief Executive Officer and Justin Wells as the President. Patel, who co-founded the conservative news site The Daily Caller with Carlson, was also a chief policy adviser to former Vice President Dick Cheney. Wells, Carlson’s former executive producer at Fox News, oversees all programming and content on the streaming service. This team brings together significant experience in both politics and media, guiding the strategic direction of the network.

INSIDER TAKE

Carlson’s venture highlights the evolving nature of media consumption and the potential for prominent personalities to establish independent digital platforms. However, its success hinges on whether Carlson’s audience is willing to follow him behind a paywall (a test of conservative loyalty) and the viability of his brand in a crowded digital space.