YouTube tops Disney and Netflix in TV viewing, Nielsen finds | TechCrunch
May 27, 2025 - techcrunch.com
Nielsen's April 2025 "Media Distributor Gauge" report highlights YouTube's growing influence in the TV landscape, as it has held the largest share of TV viewing for three consecutive months, reaching 12.4% of total audience time. This marks an increase from 12% the previous month and 9.6% a year ago. YouTube's dominance surpasses major media companies like Disney, which held a 10.7% share in April. The report also notes that TVs were the primary device for YouTube viewing in the U.S. during the first quarter of 2025.
YouTube's share of TV viewing is expected to grow further, bolstered by a new deal with the NFL announced at its annual Upfront event. This agreement will allow YouTube to exclusively stream the first Friday game of the NFL season to a global audience, marking its debut as a live broadcaster for NFL games.
Key takeaways:
YouTube has maintained the largest share of TV viewing for three consecutive months, reaching 12.4% in April 2025.
YouTube's TV viewing share increased from 12% the previous month and 9.6% a year ago.
Disney held the second-largest share of TV viewing in April 2025, with 10.7%.
YouTube announced a significant deal with the NFL to exclusively stream the first Friday game of the season globally.
