Cartoon Network’s Streaming Shuffle: Why Tubi is the Recent Home for Classic Animation
For fans of beloved Cartoon Network series, the past few years have been marked by uncertainty as shows disappeared from HBO Max. Now, a significant portion of that library is finding a new home on Tubi, signaling a broader trend in how classic animation is distributed and consumed.
The Great Streaming Migration
The move of shows like Powerpuff Girls, Scooby-Doo, Ben 10, Justice League, Codename: Kids Next Door, and Ed, Edd & Eddy to Tubi isn’t an isolated incident. It’s part of a larger pattern of Warner Bros. Discovery shifting away from kids’ content on HBO Max. This has left many wondering where these iconic series would land. Tubi, with its free, ad-supported model, has emerged as a surprising but welcome haven.
Tubi’s Rise as an Animation Destination
Tubi’s success with Looney Tunes demonstrates the platform’s potential for attracting viewers to older cartoons. The strong performance of Looney Tunes even led to a deal with Turner Classic Movies, extending the franchise’s reach. This suggests that there’s a significant audience actively seeking out these classic properties, and Tubi is positioned to capitalize on that demand.
Beyond the Headliners: A Boost for Niche Cartoons
The Tubi deal isn’t just about the biggest names. The inclusion of lesser-known series like Evil Con Carne and Loonatics Unleashed is a notable benefit. It provides a platform for these shows to reach new audiences and re-engage long-time fans. Even shows like Mucha Lucha!, which haven’t been widely available for years, are getting a second chance.
The Future of Classic Animation Distribution
This shift highlights a growing trend: the fragmentation of streaming content. Instead of relying on a single platform to house all your favorite shows, viewers are increasingly navigating a landscape of specialized streamers. Tubi’s focus on free, ad-supported content, combined with its growing animation library, makes it a compelling option for budget-conscious fans.
The success of Tubi could also encourage other platforms to invest in acquiring and curating classic animation libraries. This could lead to more competition and ultimately benefit viewers with greater access to the shows they love.
What Does This Signify for Warner Bros. Discovery?
Warner Bros. Discovery’s decision to move these titles off HBO Max reflects a strategic shift away from kids’ programming. While this may disappoint some fans, it allows the company to focus on other areas of its business. The licensing deal with Tubi provides a revenue stream for these properties, ensuring they continue to generate value even if they’re no longer part of HBO Max’s core offering.
Pro Tip:
Keep an eye on Tubi’s announcements for new additions to its Cartoon Network library. The streamer is rolling out content in waves, so there’s likely more to come.
FAQ
Q: Is Tubi free to watch?
A: Yes, Tubi is a free, ad-supported streaming service.
Q: Will all Cartoon Network shows eventually end up on Tubi?
A: It’s unlikely that *all* shows will move to Tubi, but a significant portion of the library is now available there.
Q: Are there any other streaming services offering classic Cartoon Network content?
A: Some shows have found homes on platforms like Prime Video, but Tubi currently has the largest collection.
Q: What does this mean for the future of Cartoon Network?
A: While the future is uncertain, the move to Tubi ensures that the legacy of Cartoon Network lives on, even as the brand evolves.
Did you know? Pepsiman, who runs the YouTube channel Broken Saw, first identified the Tubi pages for several Cartoon Network shows.
Stay tuned for more updates on the streaming landscape and the future of classic animation. What are your favorite Cartoon Network shows? Let us know in the comments below!
