Andy Forssell on HBO Max at TechCrunch Disrupt 2021

The Launch of HBO Max in a Changing Entertainment Landscape

WarnerMedia introduced HBO Max to the streaming market in May 2020, entering a highly competitive field. Despite initial challenges, the launch proved remarkably well-timed.

As global lockdowns took effect and individuals sought new entertainment options, HBO’s newest streaming platform gained traction, mirroring the success of Disney+, which also debuted around the same period.

Leveraging Original Content and Day-and-Date Releases

HBO Max capitalizes on the established reputation of HBO’s acclaimed original series. Furthermore, it adopted a strategy of releasing films simultaneously in theaters and on the streaming service.

This approach was facilitated by numerous studios embracing streaming releases due to widespread cinema closures. Warner Bros., a sister studio, notably premiered several high-profile films on the platform, including “Wonder Woman 1984” and “Space Jam: A New Legacy,” as the pandemic persisted.

Navigating Industry Concerns and Evolving Strategies

The past year has presented various challenges for the service. The trend of bypassing traditional theatrical releases has drawn criticism from some industry figures.

David Chase, the creator of “The Sopranos,” recently expressed significant displeasure regarding the HBO Max release of its prequel. This followed a legal dispute initiated by Scarlett Johansson against Disney concerning the streaming debut of “Black Widow.”

WarnerMedia has responded by adjusting its strategies. This included removing HBO Max from Amazon Prime Channels and introducing a more affordable, ad-supported subscription tier.

TechCrunch Disrupt: An Inside Look at HBO Max

Andy Forssell, WarnerMedia EVP and head of business operations for HBO Max, will be a featured speaker at our virtual TechCrunch Disrupt event, taking place September 21-23.

He will discuss the service’s launch amidst unprecedented circumstances, as well as future plans for the app and the broader video streaming industry.

Prior to his role at WarnerMedia, beginning in 2019, Forssell held leadership positions at Otter Media, Fullscreen, Inc., and served as acting CEO and SVP of Hulu.