The popular animated preschool series CoComelon, a global phenomenon known for its catchy nursery rhymes and vibrant animation, is set to transition from Netflix to Disney+ in January 2027. This shift marks a significant change for the show, which has been a cornerstone of Netflix’s kids and family programming since 2020. The move, reported by multiple sources including Deadline, Bloomberg, and Yahoo News, reflects Disney’s ongoing strategy to bolster its dominance in the children’s entertainment market.
A Brief History of CoComelon
CoComelon, created by Jay Jeon and his wife through their company Treasure Studio, Inc., began as a YouTube channel in 2006, focusing on educational content through music and colorful 2D animations. The series, centered on JJ and his friends navigating preschool milestones, gained traction after transitioning to 3D animation in 2017. By 2020, British media company Moonbug Entertainment acquired Treasure Studio, and Candle Media, backed by former Disney executives Kevin Mayer and Tom Staggs, purchased Moonbug for a reported $3 billion.
The show’s success on YouTube, where it remains one of the platform’s most popular channels with approximately 4 billion monthly views, paved the way for its streaming debut on Netflix. CoComelon quickly became a juggernaut, with its eight seasons collectively watched over 200 million times on Netflix in the second half of 2023 alone, according to Netflix’s data dump. Spin-offs like CoComelon Lane further expanded its reach, with the franchise also available on music platforms like Spotify and Apple Music.
Why the Move to Disney+?
Disney’s acquisition of CoComelon’s streaming rights aligns with its position as a leading brand in children’s programming. Disney+ already hosts top preschool shows like Bluey (ranked #1), Spidey and His Amazing Friends (#2), and Mickey Mouse Clubhouse (#3), as reported by Nielsen, where CoComelon currently ranks #6 for preschool audiences (ages 2-5). The addition of CoComelon is expected to strengthen Disney+’s portfolio, potentially replicating the success of Bluey, another independent animated series from an international studio.
The move comes at a time when CoComelon’s viewership on Netflix has shown signs of decline, with a reported 60% drop year-over-year, according to a What’s on Netflix report. This dip may have influenced the decision to seek a new streaming home, though Netflix’s focus on kids’ content remains strong with other animated series like Clash of Clans recently greenlit. Meanwhile, Disney’s deep vault of family-friendly content, including Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars properties, positions it to integrate CoComelon seamlessly into its platform.
What This Means for Viewers
The transition to Disney+ is slated for January 2027, coinciding with the lead-up to a CoComelon animated feature film set for theatrical release by Universal Pictures in 2027, developed in collaboration with DreamWorks Animation. This timing suggests a strategic effort to expand the CoComelon brand across multiple platforms, potentially increasing its visibility through Disney’s marketing and distribution channelsSit’s unclear whether CoComelon will remain on Netflix until 2027 or be removed earlier, as details about the transition timeline are limited.
For families, the move may require a shift in streaming subscriptions, as Disney+ and Netflix offer different pricing models and ad-supported tiers. Disney+’s ad-supported plan includes commercials in kids’ content, unlike Netflix’s ad-based plan, which keeps children’s titles ad-free. Parents will need to weigh these factors, especially since Disney+’s ad-free tier is more expensive.
Broader Implications for Streaming Platforms
The shift of CoComelon to Disney+ highlights the competitive nature of the streaming wars, particularly in the kids’ entertainment space. Netflix has relied heavily on CoComelon to drive engagement, with the show dominating viewership metrics among preschool audiences. Its departure could challenge Netflix’s position in this demographic, though the platform continues to invest in original and licensed animated content. Disney, on the other hand, is reinforcing its dominance by acquiring a proven hit, potentially at the expense of Netflix’s family-oriented subscriber base.
Speculation about Candle Media’s motives has also surfaced. Some reports suggest Moonbug’s parent company may be positioning itself for a potential sale to Disney, given Mayer and Staggs’ ties to the company and their recent advisory roles on Disney’s board. However, these claims remain unconfirmed, and Moonbug’s focus appears to be on expanding CoComelon’s global reach through new channels like the Blippi & Friends initiative and the upcoming theatrical film.
Reception and Criticism
CoComelon’s appeal lies in its educational approach, using music and animation to teach life skills and encourage positive behavior. However, it has faced criticism for its intense visual and auditory style, with some likening its effect on children to “cocaine for babies” due to its fast-paced editing and bright colors. A 2024 Daily Mail article cited concerns from parents and experts about its overstimulation, though its creators emphasize its educational value and expert-driven content development.
Looking Ahead
As CoComelon prepares to join Disney+ in 2027, its move underscores the evolving landscape of children’s media, where streaming platforms compete fiercely for young viewers’ attention. The series’ established fanbase, coupled with Disney’s robust platform, suggests CoComelon will continue to thrive, potentially expanding through new spin-offs or merchandise, much like Bluey. For now, families can continue enjoying CoComelon on Netflix and YouTube, with the upcoming theatrical film adding another dimension to the franchise’s legacy.
