Add my name to the list of people who gave up the Platinum package. Just a few minutes ago I went to my account on the dish network web site and removed the platinum pack from my account. I am not one of those to drop programming on a whim, but since losing (programming that shouldn't be mentioned lest a small war ensue) and then Smithsonian I have not been happy with this package. The addition of CI as a "premium HD channel" which contains A&E Networks brand of stretch-o-vision, an unatractive Universal channel with poor programming and commercial cuts at seemingly random points in the programs made me take a critical look at what programming I really watch on that package. It came down to HDNet Movies and MGM movies. Looking back for a few months and ahead for a week, I saw NOTHING I cared to watch or, if I did, there was an alternative somewhere else.
I see no advantage to these very weak 5 channels (Universal, MGM, HDNet Movies, CI and WFN) and at $10 it is ludicrously overpriced considering the content!
The funny thing is that when I dropped the package, I was offered HBO and Starz for free for 3 months! Since I already have AEP, I will be seeing a $20 credit on my bill for the next three months minus the $10 monthly charge for the awful platinum HD will make my bill a lot easier to swallow for a little while anyway.
See ya
Tony