Looney Tunes Shorts Removed from HBO Max Amid Movie Release

The recent decision by Warner Brothers to remove the entire catalog of original Looney Tunes shorts from HBO Max has left fans and animation enthusiasts reeling. These iconic shorts, which ran from 1930 to 1969, represent a golden era in animation and were instrumental in building Warner Brothers' legacy. Despite their cultural significance, the company has chosen to prioritize adult and family programming over children's content, which they claim does not generate sufficient viewership.

This move is part of a broader trend at HBO Max, evidenced by the cancellation of new episodes of "Sesame Street" at the end of 2024, a show that has been a cornerstone of childhood education since 1969. While some newer Looney Tunes spinoffs remain available, the essence of the franchise has been stripped away.

The timing of this decision is particularly baffling, as it coincides with the theatrical release of "The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Story" on March 14. Originally commissioned by Max, the film was sold to Ketchup Entertainment after the Warner Brothers and Discovery merger. With a limited marketing budget, the film managed to earn just over $3 million during its opening weekend across more than 2,800 theaters nationwide.

The removal of the Looney Tunes shorts comes on the heels of another controversial decision by Warner Brothers Discovery last year, when they opted not to release the completed film "Coyote Vs. Acme" due to distribution costs. This decision sparked widespread outrage among the creative community and fans alike. In February, actor Will Forte described the move as "f—king bulls—t," expressing his frustration and disbelief at the studio's choice.

The outcry over "Coyote Vs. Acme" suggests that there is still a significant audience for Looney Tunes content. Had "The Day the Earth Blew Up" been promoted more aggressively, it might have drawn larger crowds, capitalizing on the public's frustration with Warner Brothers' recent decisions regarding the franchise.