Summary
Based on a study, HBO Max has the highest cancellation rate among streaming platforms at 26.9%, surpassing Netflix.
Despite its reputation for show cancellations, Netflix had a cancellation rate of 10.2%, placing it fifth among streaming services. Comparatively, Disney+, Paramount, and Hulu had higher cancellation rates.
HBO Max's notable cancellation rate can be attributed to recent developments such as its merger with Warner Bros., which resulted in the removal of certain shows as part of cost-cutting measures.
A recent study by Variety reveals that Max, the streaming platform co-owned by Warner Bros. and HBO, has the highest rate of show cancellations among all streaming platforms. Max reportedly cancelled 26.9% of shows, a significantly higher rate compared to the combined cancellation rate of 12.2% from other major streamers.
Understanding Max's High Cancellation Rate
While Max may have emerged as the clear winner, it is usually Netflix that bears the brunt of criticism when it comes to show cancellations. This negative reputation likely arises from the fact that Netflix has been producing original streaming content long before other major platforms like Disney+ even existed. As a result, Netflix has a lengthier track record of cancelling shows and, given its vast content library, is more likely to disappoint its fan base.
In truth, Netflix ranks fifth among streaming services in terms of cancellation rates, standing at 10.2%. Disney+ takes second place with a cancellation rate of 21.1%, followed by Paramount at 16.9% and Hulu at 15.2%. At the bottom of the list, Apple TV+ boasts the lowest cancellation rate at a mere 4.9%.
Max's cancellation rate is initially shocking but can be explained by recent factors, such as its merger with Warner Bros. and HBO. The merger led to the removal of some of Max's previous content in order to cut costs. For instance, Westworld season 5 was abruptly cancelled and taken off the platform as a tax write-off, which caused confusion and disapproval among subscribers. This precedent raises concerns about the possible cancellation of other unconventional HBO shows. With this new revelation, Max's high cancellation rate may instill fear in viewers who previously criticized Netflix for its cancelled shows.