Whether you‘re a long-time fan of CW teen television or a new cord-cutting viewer, this guide will help you access their latest shows. Get info on The CW‘s history, programming, where to find it on DISH Network and beyond.
A Quick Primer on The CW
For those unfamiliar, The CW Network formed in 2006 after the UPN and WB networks merged resources to better compete.
Early iconic hits included Gossip Girl and retro classics like Gilmore Girls. However, The CW struggled for relevancy and ratings in those early years against bigger cable competitors with more mainstream appeal.
The tide turned when The CW pivoted to DC superhero shows and darker comic book adaptations. Hits like Arrow, The Flash and Riverdale built a devoted (if smaller) fandom. But can they stay afloat in the streaming era?
I‘ll overview everything you need to know to access The CW on DISH Network and without cable below. Let‘s start by finding where it lives on your channel lineup.
Locating The CW on Your DISH Lineup
The CW is included with most DISH Network packages. But the channel number differs across their coverage footprint:
| Market | Channel |
|---|---|
| Los Angeles | 5 |
| Chicago | 26 |
| Philadelphia | 57 |
| Dallas | 33 |
| San Francisco | 44 |
| Boston | 11 |
| Phoenix | 61 |
| Seattle | 11 |
| Detroit | 50 |
| Denver | 2 |
(See table above showing channel for major metro areas)
Don‘t see your city listed? Contact DISH to confirm your local channel. Without their service, read on for over-the-air antenna and streaming options.
Who Owns The CW These Days?
In August 2022, Nexstar Media Group acquired a 75% controlling interest in The CW Network. The remainder belongs to previous partners Warner Bros. Discovery (12.5%) and Paramount Global (12.5%).
This shift comes at a transitional period for The CW, with long-running shows ending. Nexstar aims to boost profitability by 2025 with lower programming costs. What does this mean for the future of the network?
The CW‘s 2024 Programming: What‘s Airing Now?
While era-defining hits like the Arrowverse have ended, The CW still airs plenty of teen serials, reality competitions and acquired content. Current and upcoming titles include:
Dramas
- Superman & Lois – Ongoing adventures of the famed superhero balancing reporting duties and family life
- Gotham Knights – Batman‘s rebellious adopted son forms an unlikely team when tragedy strikes
- Walker Independence – An 1870‘s-set prequel to drama Walker starring Jared Padalecki
- Criss Angel‘s Magic With the Stars – Celebrity competition series featuring famed mystical entertainer Criss Angel
Unscripted Programming
- World‘s Funniest Animals – Footage of humorous animal moments hosted by Elizabeth Stanton
- Farmhouse Fixer – DIY guru Jonathan Knight helps families renovate vintage farmhouses
- Whose Line Is It Anyway? – Long-running improvisational comedy show
Acquired Titles & Syndication
- The Chosen – Multi-season streaming phenomenon about Jesus and his disciples
- Penn & Teller: Fool Us – Stage magic competition where performers try to fool the legendary duo
While changes are afoot, The CW sticks to niche, youth-oriented shows it‘s beloved for by a dedicated audience. Even amidst cancellations and final seasons, their brand endures.
Watching Without DISH: Antennas, CW App and More
If you‘ve cut cable/satellite, there are still options:
- Over-the-air antennas receive The CW‘s broadcast signal for free in supported areas – Try This Indoor Antenna
- The CW App offers next-day streaming for recent episodes with a cable/streaming package login
- CW shows also live on Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video and more on-demand
Take advantage of these alternatives to stay caught up on favorites old and new if you lack DISH access. Stream or use newer technologies like OTA antennas.
Let‘s Summarize: Key CW Viewing Takeaways
Hopefully this guide gave you the CW history download, latest on where it lives on DISH Network, their programming strategy and how to watch it all:
- Formed in 2006 after UPN and WB merger, hits niche drama niche after struggling
- Included with most DISH packages; channel varies (see major city lineup)
- Nexstar Media has a 75% stake and wants CW profitable by 2025
- Focus remains on niche teen shows, dramas and acquired content
- View new and older shows via antennas, CW App, Netflix and more
Have questions not covered about accessing The CW? Sound off below in the comments!
