YouTube TV Does Not Carry the CW Network
YouTube TV does not include the CW network in its channel lineup. The CW is owned by Paramount Global and Warner Bros. Discovery, and those companies have not reached a distribution agreement with YouTube TV. If you want to watch CW shows through YouTube TV, you will not find them there.
This is a common point of confusion because YouTube TV carries many broadcast and cable networks, but the CW remains one of the notable gaps in its offering. The CW airs shows like Arrowverse series, Riverdale, and The Flash, along with sports programming and reality content. None of these are available through YouTube TV's main subscription.
Key Takeaways
- YouTube TV's standard package does not include the CW network, and there is no add-on option to get it through the service.
- The CW is available through other streaming services, including the CW's own free app with ads, Paramount+ with ads, and some cable packages.
- YouTube TV does carry other major broadcast networks like ABC, NBC, CBS, and Fox, so you can watch many network shows through the service.
- If you need the CW, you will need to use a different service or the CW's free streaming app alongside your YouTube TV subscription.
Where You Can Watch the CW Instead
The CW operates its own free streaming app called the CW app, which is available on most devices including phones, tablets, smart TVs, and computers. The app shows current episodes with ads, usually within a day or two of broadcast. This is the most direct way to watch CW content without paying extra.
Paramount+ also carries CW shows, though availability depends on your subscription tier. With a Paramount+ plan that includes ads, you can watch many CW programs. Some shows may be available only on the higher-tier ad-free plan, so check the specific show you want before subscribing.
Cable and satellite packages from providers like Comcast, Charter, AT&T, and Dish still include the CW as a standard channel. If you have one of these services, you can watch the CW live or through your provider's on-demand app. Some providers also let you stream CW content through their apps if you log in with your cable credentials.
What Channels YouTube TV Does Include
YouTube TV carries the four major broadcast networks — ABC, NBC, CBS, and Fox — in most markets. You also get cable networks like ESPN, CNN, HGTV, Food Network, AMC, FX, and many others. The exact lineup varies slightly by location, but the service includes over 70 channels in its base package.
YouTube TV does not carry every network. Beyond the CW, some other channels that are not included are Paramount Network, BET, and certain regional sports networks. Before subscribing, you can check the full channel list for your zip code on YouTube TV's website to see exactly what is available in your area.
Why the CW Is Not on YouTube TV
Streaming rights and licensing agreements determine which networks appear on which services. The CW's parent companies have chosen to distribute their content through Paramount+ and the CW's own app rather than licensing it to YouTube TV. These negotiations happen behind the scenes and can change over time, but as of now, no agreement exists between YouTube TV and the CW.
YouTube TV has had to make similar choices with other networks. The service focuses on carrying the most widely watched channels and networks that reach distribution agreements at terms YouTube finds acceptable. The CW, while popular for certain shows and audiences, reaches fewer viewers overall than the major broadcast networks, which may factor into these negotiations.
Using YouTube TV Alongside Other Services
Many people use YouTube TV as their main service and add other apps for content that is not available. If you want the CW, you could keep YouTube TV for its broad channel selection and use the free CW app for CW shows. This combination costs nothing extra beyond your YouTube TV subscription.
If you prefer not to use multiple apps, Paramount+ is another option. A Paramount+ subscription with ads costs less than YouTube TV alone, so you could use both services for less than the price of a traditional cable package. The trade-off is managing two different apps and interfaces instead of having everything in one place.
Checking Your Local CW Availability
The CW operates through local affiliates in most markets, and your local CW station may be available through an antenna if you live near a broadcast tower. You can check whether your area has a CW station and what channel it broadcasts on by visiting the CW's website or using a tool like TVFool.com.
An over-the-air antenna is a one-time purchase that lets you watch local broadcast channels for free, including your local CW station if one exists in your area. This works alongside YouTube TV — you can use YouTube TV for cable channels and an antenna for local broadcasts. Many people use both methods together to cover all their viewing needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add the CW as a premium channel on YouTube TV?
No. YouTube TV does not offer the CW as an add-on or premium channel. The only way to watch the CW is through a separate service like the CW app, Paramount+, or a cable package.
Will YouTube TV add the CW in the future?
There is no announced plan to add the CW to YouTube TV. Streaming rights depend on negotiations between companies, and these can change, but you should not count on the CW appearing on YouTube TV soon.
Is the CW app really free?
Yes. The CW app is free and supported by ads. You watch commercials, but you do not pay a subscription fee. Current episodes are usually available the day after they air.
Do I need cable to watch the CW?
No. You can watch the CW through the free CW app, through Paramount+, through an antenna if you have a local CW station, or through a cable package. Cable is one option but not required.
What CW shows are on Paramount+?
Most CW shows are available on Paramount+, but the exact list changes. Check Paramount+ directly for the shows you want to watch, as availability varies by subscription tier and region.