In a remarkable display of popularity, the Australian animated series *Bluey* has retained its crown as the most-streamed programme in the United States for 2025, amassing an impressive 45.2 billion minutes of viewing on Disney+. This marks the second consecutive year that *Bluey* has outperformed Netflix’s *Stranger Things*, further solidifying its position in the hearts of viewers across the globe.
A Phenomenon in Streaming
Despite having a modest library of just 154 episodes—most running under ten minutes—*Bluey* has captivated audiences with its charming storytelling and relatable family dynamics. First premiered in 2018, the show follows the adventures of Bluey Heeler, a playful young dog, along with her parents, Chilli and Bandit, and her younger sister, Bingo. Each episode offers a delightful slice of life that resonates with both children and parents alike, often leaving viewers emotionally moved.
The series concluded its third season with a special 28-minute episode in April 2024, and fans can look forward to a feature-length film set to debut in theatres in 2027. This upcoming film, crafted by creator Joe Brumm and produced in collaboration with Ludo Studio and BBC Studios, promises to continue the beloved series’ legacy.
The Competition
*Stranger Things*, Netflix’s acclaimed science fiction drama, finished its fifth and final season in 2025. The show garnered just under 40 billion minutes of viewing time this year, making it the leading original series on the platform. However, it still fell short of *Bluey*’s overall viewing figures. ABC’s *Grey’s Anatomy* trailed closely behind, with 40.92 billion minutes viewed across both Netflix and Hulu, showcasing the enduring popularity of long-running series.
The Nielsen Streaming Content Ratings, which measure total minutes viewed across major platforms such as Disney+, Hulu, and Prime Video, revealed that nine out of the top ten programmes were either long-standing network shows or animated series, highlighting a trend in viewer preferences for familiar content.
Streaming Trends in 2025
The year 2025 saw an unprecedented surge in total streaming consumption in the US, reaching a staggering 16.7 trillion minutes—a 19 per cent increase from 2024 and the highest on record. In terms of film, Netflix’s animated feature *KPop Demon Hunters* topped the charts with 20.6 billion minutes, followed by Disney’s *Moana 2*.
New series also made waves; HBO Max’s *The Pitt* emerged as the most successful new show, racking up 11.4 billion minutes viewed. In a world increasingly dominated by streaming, it is clear that audience appetites are evolving, favouring both nostalgia and innovative storytelling.
Why it Matters
*Bluey*’s triumph in 2025 is not merely a reflection of viewing figures; it signifies a broader cultural resonance that transcends age boundaries. The show’s ability to engage families with its heartfelt narratives speaks volumes about contemporary viewing habits and the demand for quality content. As streaming platforms continue to battle for supremacy, *Bluey* serves as a reminder that storytelling rooted in authenticity and emotional depth can triumph over mere spectacle, reshaping the landscape of children’s programming for years to come.
