Disney+ Acquires CoComelon as Netflix Does Not Renew License
CoComelon is making a move in January 2027 from Netflix to Disney+. This popular preschool series, produced by Moonbug Entertainment, has been a hit on Netflix since 2020. It’s currently ranked as the sixth most-viewed streaming series for preschoolers in the US, according to Nielsen. On Disney+, the top three series for this audience are Bluey, Spidey and His Amazing Friends, and Mickey Mouse Clubhouse.
Despite its popularity, CoComelon saw a 60% decline in viewership between the first half of 2023 and the second half of 2024, leading Netflix to decide not to renew its license. However, Netflix will continue streaming spinoffs like Blippi and CoComelon Lane, which have been successful in their own right. In fact, CoComelon Lane’s first season garnered more views than any season of CoComelon.
Netflix remains committed to children’s programming, with the kids & family audience making up 15% of its total viewing. Although CoComelon is leaving Netflix in 2027, the platform is bringing in preschool classic Sesame Street this year through a new deal. Netflix has exclusive rights to premiere new Sesame Street content worldwide and is planning to launch episodes simultaneously with their airing on PBS stations.
A source close to the negotiations claims that Netflix actually bid higher than its current license fee, but Disney made a better offer. This source disputes Netflix’s claims about viewership decline, stating that CoComelon and CoComelon Lane were the most-watched IP on Netflix in 2023 and 2024, with audiences remaining engaged with both series.
So, while CoComelon may be moving to Disney+ in 2027, Netflix is not saying goodbye to Moonbug Entertainment’s popular franchise just yet. It seems like preschoolers will have plenty to watch on both platforms in the coming years.
