What Happened to Poker Central?
Poker Central was launched in 2015 as the first 24/7 poker network. The channel aimed to provide poker fans with a constant stream of live and recorded poker content, including tournaments, interviews with players, and other poker-related shows.
However, in recent years, the channel has faced some significant setbacks that have raised concerns about its future. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what happened to Poker Central and what it means for the future of poker broadcasting.
The Rise of Poker Central
Poker Central was founded by Cary Katz, a successful businessman and avid poker player. Katz saw an opportunity to create a dedicated poker network that would cater to the growing number of poker enthusiasts around the world.
The channel launched in October 2015 with a mission to “deliver high-quality programming that appeals to all types of poker fans.” The network featured original programming such as “Pokerography,” which profiled notable players in the game’s history, as well as live broadcasts of major tournaments like the World Series of Poker.
At first, things looked promising for Poker Central. The channel received positive reviews from critics and viewers alike. Many praised its innovative approach to covering the game and its commitment to showcasing both professional and recreational players.
The Challenges Faced by Poker Central
Despite its early success, Poker Central has faced several challenges in recent years that have threatened its viability as a standalone network.
One of the biggest issues facing the channel is declining viewership. According to industry reports, ratings for Poker Central have fallen significantly since it launched. This decline can be attributed to several factors, including increased competition from other networks and streaming services and a general decline in interest in televised poker.
Another significant challenge facing Poker Central is financial sustainability. Operating a 24/7 television network requires significant resources, including production costs for original programming and acquisition fees for broadcast rights to major tournaments. As a result, the channel has struggled to generate enough revenue to cover its expenses.
In 2019, Poker Central was forced to make some tough decisions to stay afloat. The network canceled several of its original shows, including “Super High Roller Club” and “Poker Nights,” and laid off several employees. Additionally, the channel announced that it would be moving away from 24/7 programming and focusing more on live events.
What Does the Future Hold for Poker Central?
Despite these challenges, Poker Central remains committed to providing poker fans with high-quality content. The channel continues to produce original programming such as “Dolly’s Game,” which follows poker legend Doyle Brunson as he plays in high-stakes cash games.
Moreover, Poker Central has made strategic partnerships with major players in the industry to expand its reach. In 2020, the network partnered with CBS Sports to broadcast select events on the CBS Sports Network. This partnership allows Poker Central to reach a broader audience and potentially attract new viewers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Poker Central has faced significant challenges in recent years, it is still an essential player in the world of televised poker. The network’s commitment to producing high-quality content and strategic partnerships give hope for its future success.
However, as the landscape of television broadcasting continues to evolve rapidly, only time will tell whether Poker Central can adapt and thrive in this new era of media consumption.
