In 2007, people rolled their eyes when Netflix first decided to stream movies rather than just mail you DVDs. But fast-forward about a decade, and companies such as Disney are pushing nearly meme-able amounts of content out onto their streaming services. Netflix, Hulu, Amazon and other streaming companies now generate an incredible amount of original content — 160 scripted shows, almost a third of the record 495 on all of TV.
An estimated 33 million Americans cut the cord on cable in 2018, so it’s no surprise that more companies want in on the streaming game. From powerhouses such as Star Wars and Marvel to animated classics such as “The Lion King,” Disney has a massive stable of beloved shows and movies to attract subscribers to its new Disney+ streaming platform.
Netflix has a lot to lose in this competition. Disney content makes up 8 to 12 percent of Netflix’s total viewership in the United States, according to estimates from video-measurement firm 7Park Data. Once the pair’s distribution deals come to an end, all of that content will be available only on Disney+ — as will newer releases, such as this year’s “Captain Marvel” or the upcoming “Frozen 2.”
