Starz thinks it will take a double-team of free episodes — instead of the customary solo shot — to hook viewers on original hoops comedy “Survivor’s Remorse” from NBA star LeBron James.
On Sept. 27, about 78 million U.S. multichannel-video households will have access to the first two episodes for free. Those also will be available online through select websites including Starz.com, Twitter, YouTube, Facebook, the Starz Play app. The episodes will also be available on Amazon Instant Video, Walmart’s Vudu, Sony Entertainment Network and Microsoft Xbox Video services.
Typically, Starz and other pay channels release only the premiere episode of a new show for free, hoping the tease will drive subscribers to sign up to see the full run. The last time Starz offered multiple eps in a broad sampling promo was when it released the first three episodes of “Magic City” for free in 2012 prior to linear premiere. It streamed five episodes of reality series “The Chair” featuring YouTube star Shane Dawson in August ahead of linear debut, but that was available only to existing Starz subs.
“Survivor’s Remorse” follows b-ball phenom Cam Calloway (played by Jessie Usher), who inks a multimillion-dollar contract with a pro basketball team and finds his life upturned by sudden notoriety and wealth. Series is executive produced by LeBron James — who was himself a hoops star thrust into the limelight overnight — with Tom Werner, Maverick Carter, Mike O’Malley, Paul Wachter and Victor Levin. It premieres on the cabler’s linear service Saturday, Oct. 4, at 9 pm ET/PT.
On Sept. 27, about 78 million U.S. multichannel-video households will have access to the first two episodes for free. Those also will be available online through select websites including Starz.com, Twitter, YouTube, Facebook, the Starz Play app. The episodes will also be available on Amazon Instant Video, Walmart’s Vudu, Sony Entertainment Network and Microsoft Xbox Video services.
“Survivor’s Remorse” co-stars RonReaco Lee as Calloway’s cousin and confidant who moves with him to Atlanta. Cast also includes Mike Epps, Tichina Arnold, Teyonah Parris and Erica Ash.
