Showtime as a standalone app technically wound down when Paramount merged it into Paramount+ with Showtime, but viewers still search for the standalone trial because the brand is sticky. The current path to Showtime content involves Paramount+, which does offer a trial.
Showtime Free Trial: The Definitive Answer
Yes, indirectly. Showtime content is now bundled into the Paramount+ with Showtime tier, which carries a 7-day free trial. The legacy standalone Showtime app has been discontinued in favor of this bundled experience.
It's a useful way to confirm the channel lineup, streaming quality, and overall experience on your preferred devices before committing to a paid plan.
Trial Duration and Eligibility for Showtime
Signing up for Paramount+ with Showtime unlocks a 7-day free trial for new subscribers. Eligibility is tied to your email and payment method on Paramount+. The trial auto-converts to the $12.99/month bundled rate unless cancelled before day seven. The Paramount+ Essential tier (no Showtime) is cheaper but does not include Showtime originals, NFL on CBS in 4K, or live CBS streaming.
Remember to cancel before the trial concludes if you don't want to be charged. Setting a calendar reminder for day 6 is the cleanest way to avoid an unintended renewal.
Showtime Free Trial via Bundles and Promotions
Showtime content can also be reached through partner platforms with their own trial structures:
- Amazon Prime Channels: Showtime is still sold as a Prime Channel add-on with an occasional 7-day trial. Content overlaps heavily with Paramount+ with Showtime.
- Hulu add-on: Showtime add-on on Hulu typically runs $10.99/month with a frequent free-first-month promo.
- YouTube TV add-on: Same model on YouTube TV: add-on price with rotating intro promos.
- Roku Channel Premium: Showtime is occasionally sold through Roku Channel Premium subscriptions with their own trial window.
Track these promos around major launch windows: new seasons of flagship shows, NFL kickoff, and the holiday shopping window are the usual peaks for Showtime bundle deals.
Alternative Streaming Services with Free Trials (Like Showtime)
If the Paramount+ with Showtime tier doesn't make sense for you, these alternatives offer comparable prestige drama and original content:
- Max: HBO originals and theatrical movies. No standard free trial.
- Starz: Outlander, Power universe, and theatrical movies. Intro promo pricing instead of a standard free trial.
- AMC+: AMC originals like The Walking Dead universe, plus Shudder and IFC content.
- Paramount+ Essential: Cheaper Paramount+ tier without Showtime, with the same 7-day free trial.
Comparing trial lengths, channel mix, and current promotional pricing is the fastest way to find the right fit if Showtime doesn't quite work for you.