2026 Outlook for HBO Max: WBD CEO David Zaslav Predicts a Promising Year

In a recent speech at the Goldman Sachs investor event, Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav shared his excitement for the future of HBO Max. He believes that the successful launch of HBO Max in Australia serves as a blueprint for upcoming launches in Europe next year, including in the U.K., Ireland, Germany, and Italy.

After three years of internal analysis, Zaslav and his team determined that the key to sustained growth for HBO Max was to expand globally. He acknowledged the challenges they faced in developing the right platform but expressed pride in the 3.5 million new subscribers HBO Max gained in the latest fiscal period, with 3.3 million of those coming from outside the U.S.

One of the strategies for growth has been partnerships with other platforms. For example, HBO Max collaborated with Prime Video Channels and Foxtel in Australia, offering subscribers attractive bundles of content. Zaslav highlighted the strong demand for HBO content in markets like the U.K., where shows like ‘Euphoria’ and ‘The Gilded Age’ have a dedicated following.

Looking ahead to 2026, Zaslav is optimistic about the global expansion of the HBO and HBO Max brands, with a projected reach into 150 million homes. This growth will likely lead to adjustments in pricing, though Zaslav emphasized the importance of offering value to consumers while exploring new opportunities for premium content.

By teaming up with local providers and platforms, HBO Max aims to streamline its rollout across different regions while granting access to its extensive library of HBO content and Warner Bros. movies. Zaslav highlighted the success of bundling services like HBO Max, Disney+, and Hulu, which has helped reduce subscriber churn and increase satisfaction among viewers.

As Zaslav put it, the global reach, profitability, and growth of HBO Max are setting the stage for an exciting year ahead. With ambitious plans for international expansion and a commitment to quality entertainment, HBO Max is poised to continue its upward trajectory.