Looney Tunes Shorts Pulled from HBO Max Amid Movie Release

Warner Brothers has made a heartbreaking decision by removing its entire catalog of original Looney Tunes shorts from HBO Max. 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 Brothers.

According to Deadline, this move is part of a broader strategy to focus on adult and family programming, as children's content reportedly does not attract significant viewership on the platform. This decision seems to overlook the immense cultural significance of the Looney Tunes series. For instance, at the end of 2024, HBO Max also canceled its deal with Sesame Street, a show that has been a cornerstone of 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 odd, coinciding with the theatrical release of the new film, "The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Story," on March 14. Originally commissioned by Max, the project was sold to Ketchup Entertainment following the Warner Brothers and Discovery merger. The film's modest marketing budget and limited distribution have resulted in a disappointing opening weekend, grossing just over $3 million across more than 2,800 theaters nationwide.

The outcry over the handling of "Coyote Vs. Acme" last year might have boosted attendance for "The Day the Earth Blew Up" had audiences been more aware of its theatrical run. Warner Brothers Discovery opted not to release "Coyote Vs. Acme," despite its completion, citing high distribution costs. This decision has drawn widespread criticism from the animation community and fans alike. In February, actor Will Forte expressed his frustration, calling the decision "f—king bulls—t" and saying it made his "blood boil" due to its inexplicability and apparent disregard for the art form.