Warner Bros. has made a significant move by removing its entire catalog of original Looney Tunes shorts from HBO Max, a decision that has left fans and animation enthusiasts reeling. These iconic shorts, which were produced from 1930 to 1969, represent a "golden age" of animation and have been instrumental in shaping the identity of Warner Bros.
According to Deadline, this removal aligns with the company's strategy to focus on adult and family programming, sidelining children's content due to its lower viewership numbers. This shift in priorities comes despite the cultural significance of the Looney Tunes franchise. For instance, HBO also ended its deal with Sesame Street at the end of 2024, a series that has been foundational in childhood education since 1969. While some newer Looney Tunes spinoffs remain available on HBO Max, the essence of the franchise has been lost.
The timing of this decision is particularly jarring as it coincides with the theatrical release of "The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Story" on March 14. Initially commissioned by Max, the film was later sold to Ketchup Entertainment following the Warner Bros. and Discovery merger. With a limited marketing budget, the film has only managed to earn slightly over $3 million during its opening weekend across more than 2,800 theaters nationwide.
The recent controversy surrounding Warner Bros. Discovery's decision not to release the completed Looney Tunes film "Coyote Vs. Acme" last year due to distribution costs adds another layer to the current situation. The decision not to release "Coyote Vs. Acme" drew widespread criticism from the artistic community and animation fans. Notably, in February, star Will Forte expressed his frustration, calling the decision "f—king bulls—t" and stating that it was both inexplicable and infuriating.
The removal of the Looney Tunes shorts from HBO Max, coupled with the underwhelming release of "The Day the Earth Blew Up," underscores a troubling trend for fans of the franchise. It seems that without adequate promotion and respect for the legacy of these beloved characters, the enthusiasm and support from audiences may continue to wane.
