Disney+ is facing a wave of cancellations after Jimmy Kimmel Live! was temporarily suspended on ABC last month — a decision that has sparked a nationwide backlash and a broader debate about free speech in entertainment.
According to early data reported by multiple industry outlets, Disney+ lost an estimated 2.8 to 3 million subscribers in September 2025. Sister platform Hulu reportedly saw an even sharper decline, with over 4 million cancellations during the same period. Both services experienced their highest churn rates of the year — Disney+ rising from 4% to nearly 8%, and Hulu from 5% to 10%.
Despite the losses, both platforms still gained new users during the month, suggesting a volatile mix of cancellations and sign-ups.
Controversy Sparks Boycott Campaigns
The downturn followed Disney’s September 17 suspension of late-night host Jimmy Kimmel, after he made controversial remarks referencing conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The network pulled Jimmy Kimmel Live! for nearly a week, returning it to air on September 23.
Within hours of the suspension announcement, hashtags such as #CancelDisneyPlus and #CancelHulu began trending across X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok. Protesters from both political sides accused Disney of either political censorship or platforming divisive rhetoric, leading to a wave of public subscription cancellations.
Search data from Google Trends showed a surge in “cancel Disney+” and “cancel Hulu” queries, peaking at their highest levels in over a year.
Financial and Industry Implications
The controversy arrives at a difficult time for Disney, which had just announced price increases across its streaming services. Analysts believe the timing may have intensified consumer frustration, turning a political flashpoint into a broader customer retention problem.
“Disney is operating in a polarized environment where entertainment and ideology are colliding,” said Rachel Myers, senior media analyst at StreamMetrics. “The Kimmel controversy is a reminder that corporate image, celebrity conduct, and public trust are now intertwined more than ever.”
Although Disney has not issued an official comment regarding the subscriber figures, the company continues to emphasize its commitment to “creative freedom balanced with corporate responsibility.”
Looking Ahead
Analysts say the next quarter will be critical. A sustained churn rate could impact Disney’s streaming revenue projections and investor confidence — particularly as the company competes with Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Apple TV+ for market share.
Public relations experts note that how Disney manages both its public narrative and its internal accountability will determine whether the backlash becomes a short-term episode or a long-term reputational setback.
Sources: Public statements from Disney, event organizers, and market analysts; verified coverage from SF Chronicle, People, Benzinga, My San Antonio, and Axios.
