YouTube surpasses major Hollywood studios in 2025 advertising revenue

YouTube generated an estimated $40.4 billion in advertising revenue in 2025, surpassing the combined ad earnings of several major entertainment companies, according to new projections from research firm MoffettNathanson reported by The Hollywood Reporter.

The video-sharing platform’s advertising income exceeded the total $37.8 billion earned collectively by media giants including The Walt Disney Company, NBCUniversal, Paramount Global and Warner Bros. Discovery. 

The figures highlight the growing shift in how audiences consume entertainment and how advertisers are increasingly focusing on digital platforms.

The results also mark a reversal from the previous year. In 2024, YouTube recorded $36.1 billion in advertising revenue, trailing the combined $41.8 billion generated by the four traditional media companies.

For decades, major Hollywood studios dominated the entertainment industry with blockbuster films and popular television programming. 

However, the rapid rise of online video platforms has reshaped viewing habits. Traditional broadcasters have also faced declining audiences on linear television while managing the high costs associated with producing large-scale content.

YouTube’s parent company, Alphabet Inc., reported last month that the platform generated about $60 billion in total revenue in 2025. 

Beyond advertising, a significant portion of the company’s income now comes from subscription services such as YouTube TV, YouTube Premium, YouTube Music and the sports package NFL Sunday Ticket.

Despite its strong performance, YouTube’s advertising revenue remains below that of tech giant Meta Platforms, which generated about $196.2 billion in ad revenue in 2025.

YouTube has also been expanding its use of artificial intelligence tools. Recently, the company introduced a pilot program that allows government officials, politicians and journalists to use technology designed to detect AI-generated deepfakes and request their removal if they violate platform policies.