Customers ditched Disney+, Hulu after Kimmel suspension

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🗞️ Driving the news: Disney saw cancellation rates for its streaming platforms Disney+ and Hulu double in September following the brief suspension of Jimmy Kimmel Live! by ABC
• The suspension came after host Jimmy Kimmel made remarks regarding the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk
• According to Antenna data, Disney+ churn rose from 4% to 8%, while Hulu jumped from 5% to 10%

🔭 The context: The streaming industry is experiencing increased political scrutiny and audience fragmentation, with content decisions having greater consequences for subscriber loyalty
• Disney, already navigating a challenging media landscape and cost-cutting across its platforms, now faces heightened sensitivity to political backlash and public perception — particularly as it balances creative expression and brand reputation.

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: While not directly a sustainability issue, disruptions in major streaming platforms can affect the digital media ecosystem’s ability to support climate storytelling and educational programming
• Platforms like Disney+ and Hulu are influential distribution channels for environmental content, documentaries, and public awareness campaigns
• Sustained instability could weaken their role in amplifying climate narratives to mass audiences.

⏭️ What's next: Disney is likely to reevaluate its content moderation and public relations strategies in response to increased audience polarization
• Retention efforts may include content diversification or messaging reassurance to both viewers and stakeholders
• Analysts will watch whether this signals broader volatility in media consumption tied to sociopolitical events and its potential impact on long-term subscriber growth

💬 One quote: “Cancellations surged after the suspension—an indication of how quickly audiences react to perceived political decisions by content providers.” – Industry analyst (paraphrased)

📈 One stat: In September, Disney+ cancellation rates doubled to 8%, while Hulu’s hit 10%, according to Antenna.

See on illuminem's Data Hub™ the sustainability performance of Disney and its peers Comcast, Paramount Global, and Warner Bros.

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