hbo

HBO, short for Home Box Office, is an American premium television network and streaming service owned by Warner Bros. Discovery. It began broadcasting on November 8, 1972, as a satellite-delivered, subscription-based channel offering first-run films and later expanding into original programming. The network is known for a subscription model with limited or no advertising on its flagship channels.

Over the years, HBO became part of larger media conglomerates through corporate reorganizations. It was acquired by Time Warner in 1990, and after Time Warner’s later corporate changes, the brand became part of WarnerMedia. Following further corporate mergers, HBO is now part of Warner Bros. Discovery. The network operates in conjunction with a broader set of related channels and services and has marketed a direct-to-consumer streaming platform that carries both HBO content and material from other Warner brands.

Programming and influence have been a defining feature of HBO. The network has produced a wide range of acclaimed original series, including The Sopranos, The Wire, Game of Thrones, Boardwalk Empire, True Detective, and Chernobyl, as well as numerous high-profile documentaries, specials, and films. HBO is widely regarded for its high production values, serialized storytelling, and willingness to tackle mature themes, contributing significantly to the development of prestige television.

In streaming, HBO content has been distributed through HBO Max, a premium service launched to complement the traditional cable network. In 2023, the service was rebranded as Max, which continues to offer HBO programming alongside other Warner Bros. Discovery titles. HBO remains a major player in television, film licensing, and streaming, with a global audience and a substantial influence on contemporary entertainment.