History of HBO Max in Timeline
HBO Max is a subscription-based streaming service owned by Warner Bros. Discovery, launching in the US on May 27, 2020. It provides access to a wide array of content from Warner Bros., Discovery Channel, HBO, CNN, Cartoon Network, and related brands. With 125.5 million paid memberships, it ranks as the fourth most-subscribed video-on-demand service, following Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and Netflix.
1969: Sesame Street episodes available on HBO Max
In 1969, select episodes from all fifty seasons of Sesame Street became available to stream on HBO Max for the first time ever.
1993: Sky Movies renamed HBO in New Zealand
In 1993, Sky Movies in New Zealand was renamed HBO, after originally operating as a joint venture between HBO and Sky Network Television.
1998: Time Warner sold share in HBO back to Sky
In 1998, Time Warner sold its share in Sky Movies (previously named HBO) back to Sky Network Television, and it was renamed back to Sky Movies.
2005: Doctor Who revival
In 2005, the first 11 seasons of the Doctor Who revival were made available through BBC studios on HBO Max.
February 2011: Sky Atlantic launches in the UK and Ireland with HBO programming
In February 2011, Sky Atlantic launched on Sky platforms in the United Kingdom and Ireland, maintaining a distribution deal with HBO to offer most of its programming on the channel. This five-year agreement prioritizes newer HBO programs on Sky Atlantic before other UK and Irish television channels.
February 9, 2012: HBO Netherlands Started
On February 9, 2012, HBO Netherlands was launched as a joint venture between HBO and Dutch cable operator Ziggo. It aired as a three-channel multiplex service and offered a localized version of HBO Go to subscribers.
2012: Fox Showcase began airing HBO Programming
In 2012, Fox Showcase, an Australian premium television service, began airing HBO original programming through a licensed distribution arrangement with subscription television provider Foxtel.
October 10, 2013: OCS launches OCS City channel dedicated to HBO productions
On October 10, 2013, Orange Cinéma Séries (OCS) launched the channel OCS City (nicknamed Génération HBO) to broadcast only HBO productions. The HBO catalog was also available to stream on their streaming service.
September 28, 2016: HBO Netherlands Announces Closure
On September 28, 2016, HBO Netherlands announced it would cease operations on December 31, 2016. Ziggo also bought exclusive rights to HBO programming on that same day.
November 1, 2016: Ziggo to Offer HBO Programming Exclusively
On November 1, 2016, it was announced that Ziggo will offer HBO programming exclusively as part of their new Movies & Series service starting from January 2017.
December 31, 2016: HBO Netherlands Ceases Operations
HBO Netherlands officially ceased operations on December 31, 2016, after operating as a joint venture between HBO and Ziggo.
January 2017: Ziggo starts offering HBO Programming exclusively
Starting in January 2017, Ziggo began offering HBO programming exclusively as part of their new Movies & Series service.
October 10, 2018: WarnerMedia Announces Streaming Service
On October 10, 2018, WarnerMedia announced its plan to launch an over-the-top streaming service in late 2019, featuring content from its entertainment brands.
May 2019: Otter Media Takes Over Streaming Service Development
In May 2019, Otter Media was transferred to WarnerMedia Entertainment to take over the streaming service. Andy Forssell replaced Brad Bentley as executive vice president and general manager, reporting to Otter CEO Tony Goncalves, who led development.
July 9, 2019: Streaming Service Announced as HBO Max
On July 9, 2019, WarnerMedia announced the service would be known as HBO Max and would launch in spring 2020. Reese Witherspoon's Hello Sunshine and Greg Berlanti were signed to production deals for the service.
October 29, 2019: HBO Max Official Launch Date Announced
On October 29, 2019, it was announced that HBO Max would officially launch in May 2020.
2019: HBO and HBO Now subscriber numbers
At the end of 2019, there were 34.6 million HBO or HBO Now subscribers.
2019: HBO Max deals with partners
Deals with some partners including Foxtel in Australia and Sky in New Zealand which includes a significant portion of HBO Max's original programming were agreed or renewed between 2019 and 2021.
February 5, 2020: Warner Max Film Label Announced
On February 5, 2020, Warner Bros. and HBO Max announced the Warner Max film label, which would produce eight to ten mid-budget movies per year for the streaming service starting in 2020.
February 20, 2020: Distribution deal with YouTube TV announced
On February 20, 2020, WarnerMedia announced a distribution deal with YouTube TV that would allow members to add HBO and Cinemax, while also being able to include HBO Max as an add-on.
April 15, 2020: Distribution deal with Charter Spectrum announced
On April 15, 2020, WarnerMedia announced a distribution deal with Charter Spectrum to give access to HBO Max for HBO subscribers via their TV Everywhere credentials.
April 20, 2020: HBO Max Launch Date Announced
On April 20, 2020, WarnerMedia announced HBO Max's launch date as May 27.
April 27, 2020: HBO Now subscribers via Apple migrated to HBO Max
On April 27, 2020, an agreement was announced for HBO Now subscribers via Apple (both in-app subscriptions and Apple TV Channels) to be migrated to HBO Max. Content from HBO Max would be listed in the Apple TV app, and there would be a dedicated HBO Max hub in the app.
May 13, 2020: AT&T CEO reveals Amazon unlikely to partner for HBO Max launch
On May 13, 2020, AT&T CEO John Stankey indicated that Amazon was unlikely to become a launch partner for HBO Max due to disagreements over hosting Max programming on Amazon Prime Video Channels.
May 20, 2020: WarnerMedia announces distribution deals with multiple providers
On May 20, 2020, it was announced that WarnerMedia had made distribution deals with Altice USA, Cox Communications, Xbox, Samsung, PlayStation, Verizon Communications, and the National Cable Television Cooperative (NCTC).
May 27, 2020: HBO Max Launches in the United States
On May 27, 2020, HBO Max, Warner Bros. Discovery's subscription video on-demand streaming service, was first launched in the United States. The platform offers content from Warner Bros., Discovery Channel, HBO, CNN, Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, Animal Planet, TBS, TNT, Eurosport, and their related brands.
May 29, 2020: HBO Max acquires streaming rights to Young Sheldon
On May 29, 2020, HBO Max acquired the exclusive streaming rights to "Young Sheldon", a spin-off of "The Big Bang Theory".
June 9, 2020: Gone with the Wind temporarily removed
On June 9, 2020, "Gone with the Wind" was temporarily removed from HBO Max's library.
June 27, 2020: Harley Quinn to stream on HBO Max
On June 27, 2020, it was revealed that DC Universe original "Harley Quinn" would stream its first two seasons on HBO Max.
June 29, 2020: HBO Max secures streaming rights to David Makes Man
On June 29, 2020, HBO Max secured the exclusive streaming rights to the Oprah Winfrey Network series "David Makes Man".
July 2020: Katy Keene canceled
In July 2020, "Katy Keene", which premiered on The CW during the 2019-2020 season, was canceled.
July 2020: HBO Max Subscriber Numbers Announced
In July 2020, AT&T announced that HBO Max had achieved 26.6 million subscribers after its first month, including 23.6 million wholesale customers. However, only 4.1 million customers had activated their HBO Max accounts by the same date, which was seen as a disappointment.
July 31, 2020: HBO Now rebranded to HBO
On July 31, 2020, HBO Now was rebranded to simply "HBO".
August 7, 2020: WarnerMedia restructuring
On August 7, 2020, WarnerMedia announced a significant restructuring, leading to the departure of Greenblatt and Reilly. WarnerMedia Entertainment was dissolved, and programming operations were combined with Warner Bros. under Ann Sarnoff. Bloys gained complete programming oversight of HBO and HBO Max, while Forssell became the head of a new HBO Max operating business unit.
August 2020: WarnerMedia president announces HBO Max global expansion
In August 2020, as part of the WarnerMedia restructuring, president Jason Kilar announced the global expansion of HBO Max.
October 2020: HBO Max activated subscribers reached 8.6 million
In October 2020, AT&T revealed that the number of activated HBO Max subscribers had reached 8.6 million by the end of September, while the number of nominal subscribers reached 28.7 million. The total number of HBO / HBO Max subscriptions in the U.S. also increased to 28 million.
October 2020: Settlement with American Council of the Blind
In October 2020, the American Council of the Blind announced it had reached a settlement with WarnerMedia whereby at least 1,500 hours of HBO Max content will be available with audio description (AD) by the end of March 2021.
October 28, 2020: Tiny Toon Adventures reboot announced
On October 28, 2020, it was announced that the 1990s series "Tiny Toon Adventures" would be rebooted for Cartoon Network and HBO Max as "Tiny Toons Looniversity", with Steven Spielberg returning as executive producer.
November 16, 2020: WarnerMedia and Amazon reach agreement for HBO Max on Fire TV
On November 16, 2020, WarnerMedia and Amazon announced an agreement to make HBO Max available on Fire TV and Fire Tablet devices starting the next day, and to allow HBO subscribers via Prime Video Channels access to the HBO Max app. However, the additional Max programming would still not be hosted on the Prime Video Channels platform.
December 3, 2020: 2021 film lineup to have simultaneous theatrical and streaming release
On December 3, 2020, it was announced that the entire 2021 film lineup would see a simultaneous theatrical release and a one-month limited release on the streaming service, starting with The Little Things on January 29.
December 16, 2020: WarnerMedia and Roku reach agreement for HBO Max on Roku devices
On December 16, 2020, WarnerMedia and Roku announced an agreement to make HBO Max available on Roku devices starting the next day, and to allow HBO subscribers via Roku Channels access to the HBO Max app. Additionally, Roku remote controls with HBO Now shortcut buttons began routing viewers to the HBO Max app.
2020: Initial Launch Plans for WarnerMedia's Streaming Service
In 2020, WarnerMedia was planning a full launch of its streaming service in the first quarter.
February 2021: Cartoonito to launch in the United States
In February 2021, it was announced that WarnerMedia's international preschool brand Cartoonito would launch in the United States via Cartoon Network and HBO Max.
March 12, 2021: AT&T announces ad-supported HBO Max tier launching in June
On March 12, 2021, during their Investor Day event, AT&T announced that an ad-supported tier for HBO Max would launch in June 2021. HBO original programming would remain ad-free for subscribers of the tier, but access to Same-Day Premieres would not be available.
March 2021: WarnerMedia to add audio description to content
By the end of March 2021, at least 1,500 hours of HBO Max content will be available with audio description (AD) due to a settlement between WarnerMedia and the American Council of the Blind.
March 2021: WarnerMedia confirms HBO Max will not launch in select European countries before 2025
In March 2021, WarnerMedia confirmed that HBO Max would not launch in the UK, Ireland, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, and Italy before 2025. This was due to an existing deal for HBO programming with Sky Group, which was renewed in 2019, but did not automatically include Max Originals produced by third-party companies or Warner Bros. Television.
March 2021: Warner Bros. to discontinue same-day releases in 2022
In March 2021, it was announced that Warner Bros. would discontinue same-day releases in 2022, using a 45-day exclusive release window for theaters as part of an agreement with Cineworld.
March 26, 2021: HBO Max begins rolling out audio description on select titles
On March 26, 2021, HBO Max began rolling out audio description (AD) on select titles.
April 1, 2021: U-Next carried HBO and HBO Max original programs
In Japan, U-Next reached a deal to carry HBO and HBO Max original programs in Japan beginning on April 1, 2021, replacing a previous deal between HBO and Amazon Prime Video Japan.
April 23, 2021: Adult Swim and HBO Max animation teams merge
On April 23, 2021, Adult Swim and HBO Max's adult animation development teams merged under the leadership of Suzanna Makkos.
June 2021: WarnerMedia Appointed Managing Director for HBO Max Launch
In June 2021, WarnerMedia appointed a managing director for the launch of HBO Max in eight territories across Southeast Asia and the exploration of the possibilities to launch HBO Max in the Indian market.
June 29, 2021: HBO Max launches in Latin America and the Caribbean
On June 29, 2021, localized versions of HBO Max launched in Latin America and the Caribbean.
June 30, 2021: HBO and HBO Max Subscriber Count
As of June 30, 2021, AT&T reported that HBO and HBO Max had a combined total of 69.4 million paying subscribers globally. This included 43.5 million HBO Max subscribers in the U.S., 3.5 million HBO-only U.S. subscribers, and 20.5 million subscribers to either HBO Max or HBO in other countries.
July 29, 2021: WarnerMedia and Dish resolve dispute, restore HBO and offer HBO Max access
On July 29, 2021, WarnerMedia and Dish announced an agreement to resolve their dispute, restoring HBO to Dish's satellite service and offering HBO subscribers access to HBO Max via Dish at no extra cost.
September 1, 2021: Harry Potter films return to HBO Max
On September 1, 2021, the Harry Potter films returned to HBO Max after an adjustment in the agreement.
September 2021: Accessibility enhancements to HBO Max website and apps
By September 2021, WarnerMedia was to implement accessibility enhancements to the HBO Max website and apps due to a settlement with the American Council of the Blind.
September 2021: Ziggo's rights to HBO Programming set to expire
In September 2021, it was reported that Ziggo's rights to HBO programming were set to expire at the end of the year.
October 2021: Plans for HBO Max in Turkey, Greece and the Baltic states halted
In October 2021, plans to introduce HBO Max in Turkey, Greece and the Baltic states, where HBO Go was absent, were announced but later halted following the creation of Warner Bros. Discovery. Rights for HBO and Max programming were instead given to Vodafone TV in Greece, TV operators in Turkey including Digiturk, and Go3 and Telia in the Baltic states.
November 22, 2021: Disney and WarnerMedia amend HBO contract
On November 22, 2021, Disney and WarnerMedia reached a deal to amend the pre-existing contract HBO had with 20th Century Studios to allow Disney+ or Hulu and HBO Max to share streaming rights to half of 20th Century Studios' and Searchlight Pictures' 2022 theatrical slate in the United States during the pay-one window.
December 15, 2021: Ron's Gone Wrong available on Disney+ and HBO Max
On December 15, 2021, "Ron's Gone Wrong" became the first film under the deal between Disney and WarnerMedia, becoming available on both Disney+ and HBO Max.
2021: Cinemax content arrived on HBO Max
By the end of 2021, much of Cinemax's original content had arrived on HBO Max, addressing concerns about its absence at launch.
2021: HBO Max deals with partners
Deals with some partners including Foxtel in Australia and Sky in New Zealand which includes a significant portion of HBO Max's original programming were agreed or renewed between 2019 and 2021.
2021: HBO Max Expands to International Markets
In 2021, the HBO Max service began to expand into international markets. The service also carries first-run original programming under the "Max Originals" banner, programming from the HBO pay television service, and content acquired via either third-party library deals or co-production agreements. HBO Max succeeded both HBO Now, a previous HBO SVOD service, and HBO Go, the TV Everywhere streaming platform for HBO pay television subscribers. HBO Now and HBO pay television subscribers were migrated to HBO Max at no additional charge, and HBO Max also supplanted the streaming component of DC Entertainment's DC Universe service, with its original series being migrated to HBO Max as Max Originals.
January 1, 2022: Crunchyroll hub removed from HBO Max
On January 1, 2022, HBO Max removed the Crunchyroll hub, redirecting subscribers to a "global animation" page.
January 2022: Deadline reports on Warner Bros. streaming compensation
In January 2022, Deadline reported that Warner Bros. spent over $200 million compensating talent for the shift to streaming. The business move would "never occur again given its high cost".
February 1, 2022: Launch Date Officially Announced
On February 1, 2022, the launch date for HBO Max was officially announced for March 8, 2022.
February 15, 2022: South Park episodes moving to Paramount+
On February 15, 2022, it was announced that first-run episodes of South Park would move to Paramount+ beginning with season 27 in 2024, and the series library would move from HBO Max to the service in 2025 in the United States.
February 2022: Sony Pictures and WarnerMedia extend agreement
In February 2022, Sony Pictures and WarnerMedia announced an extension of their agreement to carry films from Sony's subsidiary companies and television series from Sony Pictures Television Studios on HBO Max throughout Central and Eastern Europe, beginning in 2022.
March 8, 2022: WarnerMedia and Sesame Workshop plan new shows
On March 8, 2022, WarnerMedia and Sesame Workshop announced plans for new shows for Cartoon Network and HBO Max, including "Charlotte's Web" and "Bea's Block", and the special "Sesame Street: The Nutcracker".
March 14, 2022: Discovery Plans to Merge with HBO Max
On March 14, 2022, Discovery CFO Gunnar Wiedenfels stated that the company planned to pursue an eventual merger of HBO Max with its own streaming service Discovery+.
April 2022: Warner Bros. Discovery halts international expansion of HBO Max
Following the merger of WarnerMedia with Discovery, Inc. in April 2022, Warner Bros. Discovery decided to halt international expansion of HBO Max, planning to replace it with Max and continue licensing content to other distributors.
April 2022: WarnerMedia and Discovery, Inc. Merge
In April 2022, WarnerMedia merged with Discovery, Inc. to form Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD). HBO Max and Discovery+ became the combined company's flagship streaming services. The company initially planned to merge HBO Max and Discovery+ in 2023 but ultimately chose to retain Discovery+.
July 2022: HBO Max Ceases Original Series Development in Europe
In July 2022, HBO Max ceased new original series development in Central Europe, Nordic Europe, the Netherlands, and Turkey, and removed selected international series from the platform worldwide. The service also abandoned development of live-action children's and family programming.
August 3, 2022: Max Original Films and HBO Series Removed From Service
On August 3, 2022, multiple Max Original films and HBO series were removed from the service without prior notice as part of cuts to direct-to-streaming films. Upcoming Max Original films Batgirl and Scoob! Holiday Haunt had been both abruptly cancelled, despite being nearly complete. WBD CEO David Zaslav stated that the company would cut children's programming and emphasize theatrical films over direct-to-streaming releases.
August 4, 2022: Magnolia Network programs coming to HBO Max
On August 4, 2022, it was announced that selected Magnolia Network programs would become available on HBO Max in September 2022.
August 15, 2022: HBO reorganized by Warner Bros. Discovery
On August 15, 2022, HBO was reorganized by Warner Bros. Discovery, resulting in layoffs within HBO Max's non-scripted originals, live-action family originals, international originals, and casting units. Makkos also began reporting to HBO's head of comedy Amy Gravitt.
August 2022: HBO Max and Discovery+ Merger Announced
In August 2022, WBD announced that Discovery+ and HBO Max would merge "next Summer", launching first in the United States.
August 2022: Warner Bros. to decide release window on a case-by-case basis
In August 2022, it was reported that Warner Bros.' film distribution strategy would change following the merger of WarnerMedia and Discovery, Inc., with the length of the release window now to be decided for each film on a case-by-case basis.
September 2022: Magnolia Network programs available on HBO Max
In September 2022, selected Magnolia Network programs became available on HBO Max, with Discovery+ remaining the main streaming home of its programming.
October 7, 2022: Harley Quinn: A Very Problematic Valentine's Day Special announced
On October 7, 2022, HBO Max announced "Harley Quinn: A Very Problematic Valentine's Day Special", which premiered on February 23, 2023.
November 2022: Targeting Launch in Spring 2023
During its third-quarter earnings report in November 2022, WBD stated that the merged service was now targeting a "Spring 2023" launch in the U.S.
December 2022: Potential Names Considered for Merged Service
In early-December 2022, it was reported that multiple names were being considered for the merged service—including simply "Max".
2022: CNN+ subscription service closed
In 2022, CNN's standalone subscription service, CNN+, was closed shortly after the WarnerMedia/Discovery merger due to conflicting with the company's goal of having one streaming service.
2022: All American: Homecoming placed on Netflix
In 2022, the All American spin-off, All American: Homecoming, which premiered on the CW, was placed on Netflix with its parent show.
2022: Disney deal with WarnerMedia ends
In 2022, the Disney deal with WarnerMedia for streaming 20th Century Studios and Searchlight Pictures films on HBO Max ended, with Disney+ and Hulu assuming the full pay-one rights to those films in the future.
2022: Subscriber Growth for HBO and HBO Max in Q1
In Q1 2022, HBO and HBO Max had reached 76.8 million global subscribers.
2022: HBO Max reassumes streaming rights to Warner Bros. films
In mid-to-late 2022, HBO Max would reassume streaming rights to Warner Bros. films upon their respective pay television premieres on the linear HBO service, depending on the scheduled start of their individual HBO exhibition agreements.
January 2023: Amazon Prime Video extends deal for HBO productions in France
In January 2023, Amazon Prime Video extended its deal with Warner Bros. Discovery to include all HBO productions and their linear TV channels in France, following the expiration of deals with OCS and Canal+ respectively.
February 11, 2023: Price Hike for Current Subscribers
On February 11, 2023, current subscribers of HBO Max saw the price hike for the ad-free tier, which had previously been announced on January 12, 2023.
February 2023: Foxtel and Warner Bros. Discovery renewed their partnership
In February 2023, Foxtel and Warner Bros Discovery renewed their partnership, making HBO and Warner Bros. content available across Foxtel's pay-TV channels as well as its Foxtel Now and Binge streaming services.
February 2023: WBD to Announce Merged Service
In February 2023, WBD announced that it would officially announce the merged service on April 12 and would continue operating Discovery+ in conjunction with the service. One day before the scheduled announcement, it was confirmed that the service would be called "Max". WBD acquired the max.com domain name earlier that year for $1.8 million.
February 23, 2023: Harley Quinn Valentine's Day Special Premiere
On February 23, 2023, "Harley Quinn: A Very Problematic Valentine's Day Special" premiered on HBO Max.
March 2023: 6,000 hours of HBO Max content with audio description
By March 2023, at least 6,000 hours of HBO Max content will be available with audio description (AD) due to a settlement between WarnerMedia and the American Council of the Blind.
March 2023: OSN's exclusive licensing deal renewed
In March 2023, OSN's exclusive, multi-year licensing deal was renewed, meaning a HBO Max launch is unlikely in the Middle East and North Africa region in the near future. OSN currently carries HBO content across 22 countries in the Middle East and North Africa region on its linear channels as well as its OSN+ streaming service.
March 16, 2023: Amazon Prime Video launches Le Pass Warner in France
On March 16, 2023, Amazon Prime Video launched Le Pass Warner ("The Warner Pass"), a subscription-based channel, offering Warner Bros. Discovery content in France. Selected programs were released without a subscription for a limited time. The Warner Pass was removed following the launch of Max in France, with subscribers automatically transferred.
May 23, 2023: HBO Max Rebrands as Max
On May 23, 2023, HBO Max was replaced with a newly rebranded service named "Max" in the United States, introducing a redesigned user interface and adding more Discovery content.
August 13, 2023: CNN announces new streaming news hub on Max
On August 13, 2023, CNN announced a new streaming news hub on Max known as CNN Max, set to launch on September 27. CNN Max will feature a mix of original news programs and simulcasts of primetime programs from CNN's U.S. and international linear networks. CNN International is also available through Max in European countries such as France and Poland.
October 5, 2023: HBO Max announces plans to launch sports-focused tier
On October 5, 2023, HBO Max announced plans to launch a new sports-focused tier in the United States, initially known as the Bleacher Report Sports add-on. The tier would feature live sporting events and studio shows from TNT Sports, including Major League Baseball (MLB), the National Basketball Association (NBA), the National Hockey League (NHL), and the NCAA Division I men's basketball tournament, as well as exclusive USA Soccer matches and programs, and select on-demand content.
November 2023: Subscriber Losses Reported for WBD Streaming Platforms
In November 2023, it was reported that WBD lost 2.5 million subscribers over a six-month period, with their shares falling 19% as a result.
December 6, 2023: Warner Bros. Discovery Acquired BluTV
On December 6, 2023, Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) fully acquired the Turkish streaming service BluTV.
December 14, 2023: WBD announces consolidation of GCN+ programming rights into sports add-on
On December 14, 2023, amid the closure of the GCN+ service, Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) announced that its programming rights would be consolidated into the sports add-on in February 2024, including the Giro d'Italia and various UCI tours and events.
2023: Cartoonito slate of series
By 2023, Cartoonito would have a slate of 50 series on Cartoon Network and HBO Max.
2023: WBD Unveils Max
In 2023, WBD officially unveiled Max: the new service would first launch in the United States on May 23, and in other regions throughout 2023 and 2024. While the new service maintains similar price points to HBO Max, support for 4K resolution video and Dolby Atmos became exclusive to the new "Ultimate" tier.
2023: Merged Service Rolled Out to Other Markets
In 2023, the unified service of HBO Max and Discovery+ began to be rolled out to other markets beginning in late-2023.
2023: Max faced criticism for consolidating creators credit
Upon its launch in 2023, Max faced criticism from the Directors Guild of America and Writers Guild of America West for grouping directors and writers under a singular "creators" credit. Max later announced that they would fix the credits.
February 2024: GCN+ programming rights consolidated into sports add-on
In February 2024, Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) consolidated GCN+'s programming rights into the sports add-on, including the Giro d'Italia and various UCI tours and events.
February 27, 2024: Max Launches in Latin America and the Caribbean
On February 27, 2024, Max, the rebranded version of HBO Max, launched in Latin America and the Caribbean.
April 2024: HBO Max's programming integrated into Movistar Plus+ packages
Starting in 2024, HBO Max's programming began to be integrated into more expensive packages in the Spanish TV service Movistar Plus+, with all programming from the service becoming available on Movistar Plus+ by April 2024.
May 2024: WBD and Disney Partner for Bundle
In May 2024, WBD announced a partnership with Disney Streaming to offer a bundle of Max with Disney+ and Hulu in the United States.
June 11, 2024: Max launches in France
On June 11, 2024, Max was launched in France, including access to Warner Bros. Discovery's French linear TV channels and an option for a sports-focused add-on with live sports events and Eurosport channels. During the 2024 Summer Olympics, Max shared the broadcast with France Télévisions, providing coverage to all subscribers.
July 9, 2024: TNT Sports coming to Max in Chile
On July 9, 2024, Warner Bros. Discovery announced that TNT Sports would arrive at Max in Chile the week of July 15, with an innovative proposal where sports fans can subscribe independently or by adding it to the platform's available plans. It will include live events and original content.
July 25, 2024: Launch of Max, Disney+, and Hulu Bundle
On July 25, 2024, the bundle of Max with Disney+ and Hulu was launched in the United States.
September 17, 2024: Linear TV channel Max Avances launches on Movistar Plus+
On September 17, 2024, a linear TV channel called Max Avances, dedicated to broadcasting HBO and Max content, was launched exclusively on Movistar Plus+. Following the reimplementation of the HBO Max name, the channel was renamed HBO Max Avances.
September 18, 2024: Partnership Agreement Signed Between Warner Bros. Discovery and U-Next
On September 18, 2024, Warner Bros. Discovery signed an exclusive partnership agreement with U-Next. The deal will allow Max to launch within the U-Next system featuring a library of more than 2,500 works and 16,000 episodes from 8 brands including HBO, Max Originals, Harry Potter, DC, Warner Bros., Cartoon Network, Discovery Channel, and Animal Planet.
September 25, 2024: Max officially launched on U-Next in Japan
On September 25, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. JST, Max officially launched on U-Next in Japan, featuring a library of more than 2,500 works and 16,000 episodes from 8 brands including HBO, Max Originals, Harry Potter, DC, Warner Bros., Cartoon Network, Discovery Channel, and Animal Planet.
October 2024: Warner Bros Discovery and Sky New Zealand signed a new partnership agreement
In mid-October 2024, Warner Bros Discovery and Sky New Zealand signed a new partnership agreement that would allow Sky to remain the exclusive distributor of both HBO and Max content in New Zealand from October 30, 2024. Under the partnership, Sky New Zealand would host Max as a hub on its Sky Box, Sky Pod and Sky Go platforms and its Neon streaming service. The SoHo channel would also be revamped as a linear HBO channel featuring HBO Original content.
October 24, 2024: New Max DAZN package available in Spain
From October 24, 2024, Max in Spain has a new Max DAZN package that costs €44.99 per month, in addition to the Sports package that is optional for the Standard and Premium plans. It includes four DAZN channels in addition to Eurosport with the best sport that fans could wish for.
October 30, 2024: New Partnership Agreement between Warner Bros Discovery and Sky New Zealand
In mid-October 2024, Warner Bros Discovery and Sky New Zealand signed a new partnership agreement that would allow Sky to remain the exclusive distributor of both HBO and Max content in New Zealand from October 30, 2024. Under the partnership, Sky New Zealand would host Max as a hub on its Sky Box, Sky Pod and Sky Go platforms and its Neon streaming service. The SoHo channel would also be revamped as a linear HBO channel featuring HBO Original content.
December 4, 2024: Max adds Channels tab
On December 4, 2024, Max added a "Channels" tab offering live feeds of HBO and its linear multiplex channels (with the exception of HBO Family and HBO Latino).
December 9, 2024: Warner Bros. Discovery and Sky announce bundling partnership in UK and Ireland
On December 9, 2024, Warner Bros. Discovery and Sky announced a non-exclusive bundling partnership in the UK and Ireland. Max is expected to launch in early 2026, and Sky customers will gain access to the ad-supported version at no additional cost.
2024: Sports-focused tier added to Max in Europe
During the summer of 2024, a sports-focused tier was added to Max in Europe in conjunction with its pan-European sports brand Eurosport. This tier offers the linear channels Eurosport 1 and Eurosport 2, and coverage for various sports events including the 2024 Summer Olympics, Giro d'Italia, Vuelta a España, and Tour de France.
2024: Max Launch in Other Regions
In 2024, Max continues to launch in other regions.
2024: Rooster Teeth content removed
In 2024, Otter Media company Rooster Teeth contributed content until its closure, with season two of Gen:Lock being a timed exclusive for HBO Max.
2024: South Park first-run episodes moving to Paramount+
In 2024, first-run episodes of "South Park" move to Paramount+ starting with season 27.
January 2025: AEW programs simulcast on Max
Starting in January 2025, Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) will simulcast All Elite Wrestling's (AEW) weekly television programs Dynamite and Collision on Max, adding digital rights in the United States.
February 14, 2025: JioCinema merged with Disney+ Hotstar to form JioHotstar
On February 14, 2025, JioCinema merged with Disney+ Hotstar to form JioHotstar which integrates HBO contents that were previously on JioCinema.
February 2025: TNT Sports content available to Pack Fútbol subscribers
From February 2025, TNT Sports content will be available to users with a subscription to Pack Fútbol with their enabled cable operator and to TNT Sports subscribers independently.
February 20, 2025: Max Relaunched in Vodafone TV in Greece
On February 20, 2025, the offer present in Vodafone TV was relaunched as Max in Greece. All Max content is now available across all TV packages in Vodafone Greece.
February 25, 2025: Max to launch as standalone service in Australia
On February 25, 2025, Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) announced that Max would be launched as a standalone service in Australia on March 31, 2025. Foxtel and Binge will lose access to most HBO and Max Originals, but Foxtel subscribers will be provided a 'Basic with Ads' plan at no extra cost if they have a compatible Foxtel IQ box.
February 26, 2025: Sports add-on scrapped, sports content included in Max tiers
On February 26, 2025, Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) announced that the Bleacher Report Sports add-on had been scrapped as part of a change in strategy. Live sports content would be available at no additional charge as part of the "Standard" and "Premium" tiers of Max (as B/R sports on Max).
March 4, 2025: BluTV to be Relaunched as Max
On March 4, 2025, it was announced that BluTV would be relaunched as Max on April 15, 2025, as part of WBD's global streaming consolidation strategy.
March 30, 2025: Global launch of Max rebrand
On March 30, 2025, the Max rebrand, featuring a shift from blue to monochrome corporate colors, was launched globally.
March 31, 2025: Max launched as standalone service in Australia
On March 31, 2025, Max was launched as a standalone service in Australia. Foxtel and Binge lost access to most HBO and Max Originals, but Foxtel subscribers with a compatible Foxtel IQ box were provided a 'Basic with Ads' plan at no extra cost.
April 15, 2025: BluTV relaunched as Max
On April 15, 2025, BluTV was relaunched as Max as part of Warner Bros. Discovery's global streaming consolidation strategy.
May 14, 2025: HBO Max Branding to Return
On May 14, 2025, it was announced that the HBO Max branding would return, reverting to its original name on July 9, 2025.
May 2025: Discovery+ and Max Subscriber Count
As of May 2025, Discovery+ and Max had reached a combined total of 122.3 million subscribers.
June 2025: Sinners to be first film on streaming platform in Black American Sign Language (BASL)
In June 2025, tying in with its setting and themes, it was announced that Sinners would become the first film to be offered on a streaming platform in Black American Sign Language (BASL).
July 8, 2025: Rebranding back to HBO Max rollout
On July 8, 2025, it was reported that the rebranding back to HBO Max would begin to roll out on July 9, with WBD executives wanting it to take effect before the announcement of the nominations for the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards.
July 9, 2025: HBO Max Reverts to Original Name
On July 9, 2025, the service formerly known as Max will revert to its original name, HBO Max.
July 22, 2025: HBO Max to launch in Baltic and Post-Soviet States
On June 10, 2025, it was announced that HBO Max would finally launch in the Baltic states, as well as in other Post-Soviet states, including Armenia, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, on July 22, 2025. Launches for Albania, Cyprus, and Malta were also announced for that same time frame.
September 2025: AEW PPV promotion focused on Max
In September 2025, the agreement between Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) and All Elite Wrestling (AEW) took effect, with promotion for AEW pay-per-view (PPV) events being focused exclusively on Max. This began with All Out.
November 17, 2025: CNN Max is discontinued
On November 17, 2025, CNN Max will be discontinued and will no longer be available.
2025: South Park series library moving to Paramount+
In 2025, "South Park" series library would move from HBO Max to Paramount+ in the United States.
2025: Harry Potter TV series planned
In 2025, WBD announced a television series adaptation of Harry Potter is planned to premiere during the 2025–26 season and will run for ten years.
2025: Sesame Street future seasons streaming exclusively
Until 2025, future seasons of Sesame Street will stream exclusively on HBO Max, along with Esme & Roy and several new spin-offs.
2028: TBS off-network rights to The Big Bang Theory extended
In 2028, TBS's off-network rights to the show "The Big Bang Theory" will be extended as a result of a deal between HBO Max and TBS.
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