Netflix’s top licensed content: A deep dive into the first half of 2024
Netflix’s original shows and movies often dominate the platform’s most-viewed content rankings. However, the streaming giant also offers a vast array of licensed content that continues to captivate audiences. The first half of 2024 has seen a significant amount of viewing hours dedicated to these third-party titles, showcasing the diverse tastes of Netflix’s global audience.
Kids’ content reigns supreme
It’s no surprise that children’s programming continues to perform exceptionally well on Netflix. Leading the pack is the beloved preschool series CoComelon, produced by Moonbug Entertainment, which amassed an impressive 124.5 million views. This figure doesn’t even include the two seasons of the Netflix original CoComelon Lane, which garnered an additional 34.4 million views. Moonbug’s Little Angel series also made a significant impact with 52.4 million views across its five volumes.
Following closely is the British animated favorite Peppa Pig, which pulled in 117.4 million views over six seasons. The enduring appeal of these shows highlights the importance of engaging and educational content for young viewers.
Nostalgia and new favorites
The spinoff of “The Big Bang Theory,” Young Sheldon, continues to attract a substantial audience, with 106 million views across six seasons. This series, which recently concluded its run on CBS, has found a new home and a fresh audience on Netflix.
Another notable mention is Suits, which has experienced a resurgence in popularity thanks to its availability on Netflix. The legal drama, which ended its run on USA Network years ago, garnered 81.2 million views across nine seasons. This revival underscores Netflix’s ability to breathe new life into older series and introduce them to new viewers.
Classic hits and cult favorites
Reruns of The Walking Dead and Breaking Bad continue to pay off for Netflix, with 47.1 million and 38 million views, respectively. These shows have become cultural touchstones, and their continued popularity on Netflix speaks to their enduring appeal.
Other notable licensed TV shows that performed well include Showtime’s Dexter with 33.2 million views and HBO’s Sex and the City with 33.1 million views. These series have maintained their relevance and continue to attract viewers, old and new alike.
Animated family films dominate the movie charts
Three of Netflix’s top 10 movies for the first half of 2024 were licensed animated family films. Leading the charge is The Super Mario Bros. Movie from Universal/Illumination, which racked up 80 million views. Following closely are Minions with 73 million views and DreamWorks Animation’s The Boss Baby with 64 million views.
These films’ success highlights the universal appeal of animated content and its ability to draw in viewers of all ages. The combination of engaging storytelling, vibrant animation, and beloved characters makes these movies a hit with families worldwide.
Regional availability and licensing limitations
It’s important to note that Netflix’s licensing agreements vary by region, meaning not all content is available worldwide. For instance, The Big Bang Theory is not available in the U.S. on Netflix. Similarly, shows licensed from HBO, such as Sex and the City and Insecure, are available in the U.S., Latin America, and some European countries.
Additionally, some content is available for limited periods. For example, Top Gun: Maverick was only available on Netflix for a few months in 2024 and was not accessible globally. These regional and temporal limitations can impact viewing figures and availability.
Most-watched licensed content on Netflix (First half of 2024)
TV Shows
Show | Studio | Views |
---|---|---|
CoComelon | Moonbug Entertainment | 124,500,000 |
Peppa Pig | Hasbro | 117,400,000 |
Young Sheldon | Warner Bros. Television | 105,800,000 |
Suits | Universal Content Productions | 81,200,000 |
Masha and the Bear | Animaccord | 70,200,000 |
Brooklyn Nine-Nine | Universal Television | 65,900,000 |
Big Bang Theory | Warner Bros. Television | 55,000,000 |
Little Angel | Moonbug Entertainment | 52,400,000 |
The Walking Dead | AMC Studios | 47,100,000 |
Bebefinn | Pinkfong | 39,800,000 |
Breaking Bad | Sony Pictures Entertainment | 38,000,000 |
Movies
Film | Studio | Views |
---|---|---|
The Super Mario Bros. Movie | Universal/Illumination | 80,300,000 |
Minions | Universal/Illumination | 72,700,000 |
The Boss Baby | DreamWorks Animation | 63,600,000 |
Despicable Me 3 | Universal/Illumination | 61,600,000 |
Shrek | DreamWorks Animation | 56,900,000 |
The Equalizer 3 | Columbia Pictures | 53,500,000 |
Trolls | DreamWorks Animation | 42,700,000 |
Sing 2 | Universal/Illumination | 40,400,000 |
Top Gun: Maverick | Paramount Pictures/Skydance | 37,100,000 |
Hotel Transylvania 2 | Sony Pictures Animation | 36,500,000 |
Netflix’s ability to curate a diverse range of content, from nostalgic TV shows to animated family films, ensures that there is something for everyone. The platform’s extensive library of licensed content continues to draw in viewers, providing hours of entertainment and joy.