Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Disney+ and Hulu Lose Millions Amid Kimmel Controversy

10/22/2025

38 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Disney+ lost about 3 million subscribers and Hulu about 4.1 million in September after Jimmy Kimmel (talk-show host)'s show was suspended.
The losses were nearly double the platforms' usual monthly rate.
Disney+ gained 2.2 million subscribers and Hulu gained 2.1 million.
The suspension stemmed from controversial comments about the assassination of activist Charlie Kirk.
Kimmel's show returned on September 23 after a brief hiatus.

History

Historical Context

The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 significantly boosted streaming services, with Netflix adding 16 million subscribers in Q1 alone. In contrast, Disney+ and Hulu, owned by The Walt Disney Company, faced subscriber losses in September 2023, losing 3 million and 4.1 million respectively. This decline highlights the challenges streaming platforms encounter in retaining viewers amid evolving cultural discussions and public controversies.

1 of 2

Story summary

Disney+ lost about 3 million subscribers and Hulu about 4.1 million in September after Jimmy Kimmel (talk-show host)'s show was suspended.
The losses were nearly double the platforms' usual monthly rate.
Disney+ gained 2.2 million subscribers and Hulu gained 2.1 million.
The suspension stemmed from controversial comments about the assassination of activist Charlie Kirk.
Kimmel's show returned on September 23 after a brief hiatus.

1 / 2