Changing the channel

SVOD provider Netflix Kids takes the top broadcast spot

Netflix Kids’ ranking as the hottest of the Hot50’s broadcasters definitely reflects the impact video streaming services are having on the broader kids entertainment industry. The SVOD giant introduced its Just For Kids section to North American audiences in 2011 and quickly stacked its offering with leading third-party TV series and movies for kids and families. Then in 2013, it sealed a deal with DreamWorks Animation, commissioning 300 hours of original programming—the largest original content deal in Netflix’s history. And it’s been on an original programming tear ever since.
The DWA partnership delivered its first original animated series Turbo F.A.S.T. in 2013, followed by Veggie Tales In the House last month. Madagascar spin-off King Julien and Shrek-based Puss In Boots arrive this month, with Dinotrux expected for 2015. Original series deals have also been struck with the likes of Saban (Popples), Mattel (Ever After High), Scholastic Media (The Magic School Bus 360), 41 Entertainment (Kong—King of the Apes) and Rainbow (Winx Club WOW: World of Winx).
In addition, 2014 saw Netflix tap ex-Nickelodeon exec Brian Wright as its first-ever head of original kids and family programming.
As Netflix continues to launch across Europe in 2015, and expand its global subscriber base of 50 million (and counting), expect to see more content partnerships emerge for the SVOD pioneer.