Story perspectives

Animation Industry Faces Pressure Amid Declining Viewership

4/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

The business model for kids and family animation is under pressure due to declines in linear viewership and tighter commissioning.
At Spain’s Quirino Future Lab, Sherry Gunther Shugerman and Bobbie Page, producers, said fewer buyers are commissioning content, especially from original intellectual property.
Online platforms are offering new routes for creators to reach audiences directly.
Glitch Productions generates revenue through merchandise and fan engagement, exemplified by The Amazing Digital Circus.

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Story summary

The business model for kids and family animation is under pressure due to declines in linear viewership and tighter commissioning.
At Spain’s Quirino Future Lab, Sherry Gunther Shugerman and Bobbie Page, producers, said fewer buyers are commissioning content, especially from original intellectual property.
Online platforms are offering new routes for creators to reach audiences directly.
Glitch Productions generates revenue through merchandise and fan engagement, exemplified by The Amazing Digital Circus.