May 27, 2025 | Tech Desk
In a significant shift in media consumption trends, YouTube has emerged as the most-watched streaming platform on television screens, surpassing entertainment giants like Disney+ and Netflix, according to the latest Nielsen data.
YouTube has surpassed Disney and Netflix in U.S. TV viewing, according to Nielsen’s February 2025 Media Distributor Gauge. The platform achieved a record 11.6% share of total TV viewing time, marking its highest share to date and the second time it has topped the gauge since its inception in November 2023.
Disney, encompassing Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+, held the second spot with a 10% share, while Netflix tied for fourth with Paramount at 8.2%. This shift reflects YouTube’s growing appeal across various demographics, notably among older viewers. Adults aged 65 and over have nearly doubled their YouTube viewing in the past two years, now comprising 15.4% of its audience, nearly matching the 16.9% share of children aged 2 to 11 .
Industry experts suggest this marks a turning point in how audiences consume content. While platforms like Netflix and Disney+ focus heavily on high-budget original shows and movies, YouTube’s user-generated and niche content is increasingly resonating with viewers seeking personalized and relatable programming.
Analysts predict that YouTube’s rising viewership and revenue growth could soon position it as the leading media company, surpassing Disney in both TV viewership and financial performance