Disney CEO Comments on Movie Theaters vs. Streaming

The Walt Disney Company’s earnings call was held on Wednesday, August 5th, where Disney CEO Josh D’Amaro updated shareholders on the company’s profits and goals.

The livestream featured a Q&A session in which Chief Financial Officer Hugh Johnston was asked a pressing question about movie theaters vs. streaming services.

A shareholder asked, “How much of earnings growth is dependent on content-driven downstream value vs building out experiences?” This question is business-speak-heavy, but in non-corporate jargon, it’s asking whether Disney is prioritizing IP in movies and television series over creating a classic movie-theater experience.

“Theatrical performance is important to us, but the nature of the film industry is more of a portfolio game,” Johnston replied. “Diversified business helps combat volatility. Growth drivers are experiences and streaming.”

Johnston revealed that Disney Entertainment’s main source of profit is from streaming services Disney+ and Hulu. This is really big news, because if you follow Disney movie earnings, you’ll know that Toy Story 5 just brought in $1 billion at the worldwide box office. So just how much money is Disney+ making, Hugh?!? Disney released that the streaming service earned $11.9 billion in total for 2025. So it’s a lot!

Even though Disney+ is their top priority, you’ll still be able to see Disney movies in theaters with your fellow fans for years to come. Theatrical performance is important to Disney, and Toy Story 5 showed us why. The movie spawned popcorn buckets, sippers, souvenirs, and even theme park events. Making a movie a true experience is not only super fun for fans, but super profitable!

We’ll be sure to keep you updated on more Disney movie and Disney+ stats. Stay tuned to AllEars for more Disney news!

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Do you prefer watching Disney movies in theaters or on streaming? Comment below!