Millions cancel Disney/Hulu after Jimmy Kimmel suspension: data

Streaming platforms Disney+ and Hulu experienced a significant loss of subscribers following the suspension of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” on ABC last month, according to data from Antenna. Reports show that around three million Americans canceled Disney+ subscriptions and 4.1 million canceled Hulu subscriptions after the popular late-night show hosted by Jimmy Kimmel was pulled off the air.

The sharp increase in cancellations from August to September doubled, with churn rates averaging between 3-4% for Disney+ and 4-5% for Hulu throughout the year. The backlash against Disney was prompted by the suspension of Jimmy Kimmel on September 17, due to comments made about conservatives’ reactions to events involving a right-wing figure.

Despite the controversy, “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” returned to TV screens on September 23 and experienced record-breaking ratings, even though certain media groups continued to ban the show. Antenna also reported a rise in new subscribers for both Disney+ and Hulu, with Disney set to increase subscription prices for new subscribers from October 21.

While Disney disputes the estimates provided by Antenna, claiming lower cancellation numbers based on their own data, the impact of the suspension on subscriber numbers is clear. Current Disney+ and Hulu subscribers should anticipate these changes reflected in their bills after the stated date.