The new Disney+ streaming service had barely gotten off the ground when Netflix (NASDAQ: NFLX) responded to the launch by announcing a deal with kids' TV network Nickelodeon. The deal will produce original animated content based on its library of characters as well as new characters created just for the platform.
Although such partnerships take time to negotiate, and this one was in the works for a while, it's clear Netflix is desperate to blunt Disney's debut by having programming to attract children. Announcing it just days after Disney+ launched with over 10 million subscribers indicates that Netflix wanted to grab a bit of the spotlight that was beaming brightly on its rival.
While SpongeBob SquarePants and Invader Zim no doubt have legions of youthful fans, the characters are not going to mute the buzz Disney+ is generating surrounding the release of its live-action Star Wars series, The Mandalorian.