Disney+ Cancellations Surge Following Kimmel Controversy
In a dramatic turn for the streaming giant, Disney+ saw approximately three million U.S. subscribers cancel their accounts in the wake of ABC’s temporary suspension of Jimmy Kimmel Live! The ripple effect extended to Hulu as well, with 4.1 million cancellations reported during the same period—nearly double the usual churn rate .
What Triggered the Backlash?
On September 19, 2025, ABC—owned by The Walt Disney Company—announced the abrupt suspension of Jimmy Kimmel’s late-night show following controversial remarks made during a live broadcast. While the suspension lasted only days (production resumed September 23 ), the decision ignited a firestorm across social and political spheres.
Viewers on both sides of the aisle reacted strongly: some demanded accountability, while others decried censorship. The backlash translated directly into subscription behavior, with reports of the Disney+ cancellation page crashing due to overwhelming traffic .
By the Numbers: Streaming Churn in October 2025
| Service | Cancellations (U.S.) | Change vs. Avg. Month |
|---|---|---|
| Disney+ | ~3,000,000 | +102% |
| Hulu (Disney-owned) | ~4,100,000 | +95% |
Did New Sign-Ups Offset the Loss?
Interestingly, Disney reported a simultaneous increase in new subscriptions during the same window, suggesting the controversy also drew curious or supportive viewers . However, industry analysts caution that short-term spikes rarely compensate for mass cancellations in the long run—especially when brand trust is shaken.
Broader Implications for Streaming Wars
This incident underscores a growing trend: streaming loyalty is increasingly tied to corporate values. Subscribers no longer just pay for content—they vote with their wallets based on perceived ethics, political alignment, and crisis response.
Disney’s challenge now is twofold: retain its core family-friendly audience while navigating the minefield of late-night political commentary—a genre inherently at odds with its traditional brand identity.
What’s Next for Disney+?
With two shows recently canceled and four renewed in 2025 , Disney+ is clearly recalibrating its content strategy. Whether this includes distancing from politically charged programming remains to be seen. For now, the Kimmel episode serves as a stark reminder: in the age of instant outrage, one suspension can cost millions.
