Disney+ Hotstar set a new record by achieving 59 million concurrent viewers during the World Cup finals between India and Australia.
Disney+ Hotstar achieved a new record in concurrent viewership, reaching 5.9 Crore (59 million) viewers during the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 final between India and Australia on November 19.
This milestone surpassed the platform’s previous high of 53 million concurrent viewers during the semifinal match between India and New Zealand on November 15.
The platform has been offering the World Cup matches for free in standard definition, a strategy similar to Jio Cinema’s approach with the Indian Premier League (IPL).
This achievement is significant for Disney+ Hotstar, as Disney is reportedly exploring various strategies for its business in India, including potential joint ventures or sales. As mentioned in a Wall Street Journal report from July, this is part of a broader initiative to reduce costs and stimulate growth.
Disney’s CEO, Bob Iger, commented on the situation during a November 9 earnings call. He acknowledged the challenges faced in India but expressed a desire to maintain Disney’s presence there. “In India, our linear business does quite well. It’s making money. But we know that other parts of that business are challenged for us and others, and we are looking, I’ll call it expansively. We’re considering our options there,” he stated. Considering its massive population, Iger also emphasized the potential in India and expressed a desire to improve the company’s position and profitability in the Indian market.
In the World Cup final, the Indian team was dismissed for 240 runs by Australia. The Australian team won it comfortably clinching their 6th World Cup title. Viewer numbers were anticipated to climb further if the match became more intense.
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