Higher Demand for HBO-Branded Titles Over Max in Streaming Services
Several big-budget Warner Bros. IP series that were originally created for Max are being rebranded as HBO originals. This rebranding includes popular series like “Harry Potter,” the “It” prequel “Welcome to Derry,” and the Green Lantern adaptation “Lanterns.” Recently, “The Penguin” and “Dune: Prophecy” have also joined the list of former Max originals that will now premiere on the linear HBO channel.
The shift to HBO originals is significant as the HBO brand is synonymous with prestige and quality. This distinction isn’t just industry-related; it also impacts audience reception. HBO titles tend to overperform in terms of audience demand on Max. HBO originals constitute the largest share of series available to stream on Max, accounting for 16.5% of the content.
The decision to rebrand these series as HBO originals underscores the reputation and appeal of the HBO brand. It reflects a strategic move to leverage the established credibility and success of HBO content within the streaming landscape. This repositioning aims to draw in audiences who associate HBO with high-quality programming and storytelling.
The transition of these Warner Bros. IP series to HBO originals signifies a new chapter for these beloved franchises. By aligning them with the HBO brand, the series are poised to reach a wider audience and further solidify HBO’s position as a leading content provider in the streaming industry.
