Google has officially discontinued the YouTube Originals program. The division that was formed in 2016 is in charge of producing exclusive video content, including series, educational videos, as well as music and celebrity content, for the YouTube Premium subscription service.
The closing of YouTube Originals was announced directly by YouTube's Chief Business Office Robert Kyncl via Twitter. After this program is terminated, YouTube will focus on funding programs for YouTube Kids and Black Voices.
"With rapid growth new opportunities have emerged and now our investments can have a greater impact for more creators when applied to other initiatives such as the Creator Shorts Fund, Black Voices Fund and Live Shopping," Kyncl wrote in a statement. Verge, Wednesday (19/1/2022).
An update on YouTube Originals: pic.twitter.com/PixhgZ2yhU
— Robert Kyncl (@rkyncl) January 18, 2022
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Since its founding five years ago, YouTube Originals has changed direction several times. Led by Susanne Daniels, they initially created scripted content centered on creators such as the series 'Scare PewDiePie'.
Not only that, they also penetrated Hollywood-style content, by launching series such as 'Cobra Kai' which later moved to Netflix. YouTube then switched to content containing ads and starring celebrities such as Katy Perry and Kevin Hart, to be shown free of charge to all users who do not subscribe to YouTube Premium.
In this announcement, Kyncl also revealed that Daniels will be leaving YouTube in March, a decision that also contributed to the shutdown of YouTube Originals.
In fact, a few months ago YouTube Originals announced several new programs that will be released this year, including a series starring Will Smith and Alicia Keys. YouTube says it will honor ongoing commitments and will be in touch with creators in the coming days.
