Warner Brothers Discovery (WBD) has shut down the Cartoon Network website, redirecting viewers to its subscription streaming service Max, in an effort to cut costs. Reports indicate that visitors to the Cartoon Network website are now met with a message directing them to Max, the subscription page. This message, according to Variety, reads: “Looking for episodes of your favourite Cartoon Network shows? Check out what’s available to stream on Max (subscription required).” This shift aims to drive growth for Max, as a company official told Variety, “We are focusing on the Cartoon Network shows and social media where we find consumers are the most engaged and there is a meaningful potential for growth.”
The website, previously a hub for full episodes of popular shows like The Powerpuff Girls, Tom and Jerry, and We Bare Bears, is now aligning with the ongoing streaming war by directing users to its subscription platform. This decision comes after Warner Brothers Discovery reported a 6% decline in earnings for the second quarter of 2024, reaching approximately ₹ 8,152 crore ($9.71 billion), along with a loss of ₹ 8,359 crore ($10 billion). The website shutdown is a cost-cutting measure aimed at boosting Max subscribers. The Max subscription offers a kid’s profile section with content restrictions, further appealing to families.
While the website is no longer active, Cartoon Network will continue to offer 11 hours of programming daily on cable television from 6 am to 5 pm. Fans who wish to access their favorite Cartoon Network shows will need to subscribe to Max or rely on cable TV broadcasts.
