Streaming Originals Roll Back Diversity, Narrowing Path for Creatives

BusinessHollywood & EntertainmentStreaming Originals Roll Back Diversity, Narrowing Path for CreativesByDr. Ana-Christina Ramón and Dr. Darnell Hunt,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. We are the authors of UCLA’s annual Hollywood Diversity Report.Follow AuthorJun 17, 2026, 10:00am EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.SummaryA new UCLA Hollywood Diversity Report reveals a concerning trend in streaming originals for 2025. Along with fewer original films being produced by major streamers, diversity declined in front of and behind the camera. BIPOC leads fell from 51% in 2024 to 36% in 2025. In addition, women had reduced opportunities as directors and most helmed low-budget films. This regression occurs even as BIPOC households continue to disproportionately drive viewership for top streaming films. For instance, "KPop Demon Hunters," an animated film with an all-Asian cast, became Netflix's most-watched original, largely due to strong engagement from women and BIPOC audiences. Viewers are demanding diverse, original content. Streamers risk losing profitability and audience engagement by rolling back diversity.Show More Diversity takes a hit among streaming originals, while BIPOC viewers continue to drive ratings for its most-watched filmsUCLA Hollywood Diversity Report 2026, Featuring Film, Part 2: Streaming CoverUCLA IRLE“In any given moment we have two options: to step forward into growth or step back into safety.” — Abraham MaslowStreaming services continue to dominate the media landscape. In 2025, viewers watched 16.7 trillion minutes of streaming content, which was a 19 percent increase from the previous year and a record high. At the same time, about half of adult viewers are dissatisfied with the cost of streaming and cable services, according to an AP-NORC poll. Recent concerns have emerged over how inflation ma...