WBD Global Streaming Subscribers Increase by 5.3 Million in Q1 Report

Warner Bros Discovery recently announced that their global subscriber base has reached 122.3 million, with an increase of 5.3 million subscribers. The company aims to achieve a milestone of 150 million members worldwide by the end of 2026. This growth was largely driven by their streaming services, which saw an 8% increase in revenues to $2.7 billion in the first quarter of the year. CEO David Zaslav highlighted the success of the ongoing international rollout, with plans to launch in the UK in 2026.

In addition to their streaming success, Warner Bros Discovery reported an overall revenue decline of 10% to $8.9 billion. Despite this, streaming advertising revenue grew by 35% to $237 million, thanks to an increase in ad-lite subscribers. Zaslav emphasized a focus on quality over quantity for their streaming content, with recent hits like Season 3 of The White Lotus and The Pitt receiving positive reception.

The studios division of the company experienced an 18% revenue drop to $2.3 billion, partly due to a slow start to the year following successful Q4 releases like Dune: Part Two and Godzilla v Kong. However, recent box office successes like A Minecraft Movie and Sinners have helped offset these declines. The highly anticipated Superman film is set to open in July, with other projects like Supergirl and Lanterns in various stages of production.

Despite the revenue challenges, Warner Bros Discovery’s stock price saw a 5% increase after the financial report was released. Zaslav also mentioned potential restructuring into Global Linear Networks and Streaming & Studios divisions, hinting at potential spin-offs of the company’s television assets. With a continued focus on streaming growth and quality content, Warner Bros Discovery is aiming to maintain its position as a key player in the entertainment industry.