In the ever-evolving world of streaming entertainment, viewer habits continue to shift dramatically, with new shows capturing massive audiences and redefining what it means to be a “hit.” According to the latest Nielsen and industry data, Netflix’s “Squid Game” Season 3 currently reigns supreme among original scripted series, amassing an astonishing 15.1 billion minutes viewed in the first half of 2025 alone.
This cements its status as the most-watched streaming original drama globally, a testament to the show’s gripping narrative and cultural impact.
The Unstoppable Rise of “Squid Game” Season 3
Since its debut, Squid Game has been a global phenomenon, blending intense storytelling with social commentary, and Season 3 continues this trend with even higher engagement. The show’s ability to maintain such high viewer retention in its third season is rare in the streaming world, where audience attention often wanes quickly.
Netflix’s investment in international content and high production values clearly pays off, illustrating how global stories resonate universally.
But Wait — Who’s Actually Leading in Total Streaming Time?
While Squid Game dominates original scripted drama, the animated series Bluey has quietly shattered records, becoming the highest-streamed show overall in 2025 with over 25 billion minutes viewed worldwide.
This Australian family favorite appeals to viewers across age groups, combining heartwarming stories with humor and life lessons. Its incredible streaming time highlights how animation and family-friendly content remain a powerhouse in the streaming ecosystem.
Reality TV’s Resurgence: The Case of Love Island USA
Reality TV is also enjoying a renaissance, with Love Island USA breaking Peacock’s viewing records by surpassing 1 billion minutes streamed in its latest season.
The show’s blend of romance, competition, and social dynamics has captured a devoted fanbase, proving that unscripted content still holds significant sway in a landscape dominated by scripted dramas and movies.
Quick Snapshot: Streaming Leaders in 2025
| Show | Viewership Highlight | Platform | Genre |
|---|---|---|---|
| Squid Game S3 | ~15.1 billion minutes in H1 2025 — #1 original drama | Netflix | Scripted Drama |
| Bluey | >25 billion minutes globally — all-time streaming leader | Disney+ (and others) | Animation/Family |
| Love Island USA | Over 1 billion minutes — top reality series | Peacock | Reality TV |
Other Notable Mentions
- Ginny & Georgia (Netflix) continues to draw strong viewership with its compelling blend of drama and mystery.
- The Better Sister (Prime Video) and Tires (Netflix) have also made significant waves, showcasing the diversity of content capturing audiences across platforms.
Why This Matters: Streaming Trends in 2025
The data reveals several key trends shaping the streaming landscape:
- Diverse Content Wins: From international thrillers like Squid Game to family animation like Bluey, and reality hits like Love Island, variety is key to capturing broad audiences.
- Global Appeal: International shows are no longer niche; they are mainstream hits driving subscriber growth worldwide.
- Engagement Over Quantity: Total minutes watched remains a critical metric, reflecting not just how many people tune in, but how deeply they engage with content.
What to Watch Next?
If you’re looking for your next binge-worthy series, consider these options based on current viewership trends:
- For intense drama and social commentary: Squid Game Season 3 (Netflix)
- For heartwarming family fun: Bluey (Disney+ and other platforms)
- For reality TV thrills: Love Island USA (Peacock)
- For fresh drama: Ginny & Georgia (Netflix)
Streaming entertainment continues to evolve rapidly, but one thing remains clear: compelling storytelling, whether through scripted drama, animation, or reality TV, is what keeps viewers coming back for more.
What Was The Most Watched Show of 2024?
Bluey was the #1 most watched streaming show in 2024 with 50.5 Billion minutes watched across all platforms.
Best Video Streaming Service Deals Available Right Now
Streaming TV and movie services can cost a lot when you add them all up. Many people now look for deals to save money while still watching their favorite shows. Finding the best streaming deals can save you hundreds of dollars each year while still giving you access to all the content you love.
These deals change often as companies compete for your business. Some offers bundle services together, while others give discounts for new subscribers. From single service promotions to package deals that combine multiple platforms, there are many ways to cut costs without missing out.
1) Disney+, Hulu, and Max Bundle: $17 per month with ads
The Disney+, Hulu, and Max Bundle offers an excellent way to save money while enjoying content from three popular streaming platforms. For just $16.99 per month, viewers get access to all three services with ads, saving over 30% compared to subscribing to each service separately.
This bundle combines Disney+’s family-friendly movies and shows with Hulu’s extensive TV library and Max’s premium content. Users save about $8 monthly with this package deal, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious streaming fans.
Setting up the bundle is simple. Subscribers can stream shows, movies, and more across all three platforms after signing up. Each service remains separate, so users need to switch between apps to access different content.
For those who want even more options, Disney offers other bundles too. Some packages include ESPN+ instead of Max, giving sports fans another choice.
The bundle is only available to U.S. residents. While the standard bundle includes ads on all services, viewers seeking ad-free options can upgrade for an additional fee.
Many users find this bundle provides the perfect mix of content. With Disney’s animated classics, Hulu’s next-day TV episodes, and Max’s HBO originals, there’s something for everyone in the household.
Compared to cable TV costs, this $16.99 bundle represents significant savings while delivering a wide range of entertainment options. The combined libraries offer thousands of shows and movies at a fraction of traditional television prices.
2) Starz: $3 for three months
Starz is offering an amazing deal right now. New subscribers can get the service for just $3 per month for 3 months, which is 73% off the regular price of $10.99 monthly.
This limited-time special offer gives you full access to everything Starz has to offer. You can enjoy unlimited HD streaming across multiple devices. The plan allows streaming on up to 4 devices at the same time, perfect for families.
One great feature is the ability to download content. This means you can watch your favorite shows and movies offline without using data or needing internet connection.
The Starz streaming service includes exclusive original shows and hit movies. All content comes ad-free, so your viewing experience won’t be interrupted by commercials.
If you’re interested in trying Starz for a longer period, there’s another option. You can prepay $17.99 for six months, which works out to $3 per month.
The best part is that you can cancel anytime. There’s no long-term commitment required with this offer, making it a low-risk way to try the service.
To get this deal, simply visit the Starz website and choose the special offer option. This promotion is part of the best streaming deals available in March 2025.
3) YouTube TV: $70 per month
YouTube TV offers a solid streaming package at $70 per month. This price point has remained stable even as some competitors have increased their rates.
The service includes over 100 channels covering news, sports, entertainment, and more. Users get access to major networks like ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox, plus popular cable channels.
YouTube TV includes unlimited DVR storage at no extra cost. This feature lets viewers record their favorite shows and keep them for up to 9 months.
Sports fans will find plenty of options on YouTube TV. The service carries numerous sports networks, making it a good choice for those who follow multiple leagues.
New subscribers can test the waters with a free trial. YouTube TV typically offers a 10-day trial period for newcomers to experience the service.
The interface is user-friendly and works on most devices. Viewers can watch on smartphones, tablets, computers, and smart TVs without hassle.
Despite a recent price increase, many still consider YouTube TV one of the best live TV streaming services available today. Its channel lineup and features justify the monthly cost for many households.
The service allows up to six user profiles per account. Each family member can have their own watchlist and recommendations.
Users can stream on up to three devices at once. This makes it easy for family members to watch different programs simultaneously.
4) Sling TV: Starting at $23 per month
Sling TV offers one of the most affordable live TV streaming options on the market. New subscribers can get their first month for just $23, making it a budget-friendly choice for cord-cutters.
The service lets viewers customize their experience with different base packages. Sling Orange and Sling Blue each start at $23 for the first month under their current promotion, which is half off the regular price.
Sling stands out by letting customers add only the channels they want. This pick-and-choose approach helps viewers avoid paying for content they don’t watch.
Sports fans appreciate Sling’s coverage options for catching live games. News junkies can stay up-to-date with various news channels included in the base packages.
The platform works on most streaming devices, making it easy to watch at home or on the go. Users can access live TV channels, sports, and news from almost anywhere.
Sling also offers special deals throughout the year. Current promotions include options to prepay and save on longer subscriptions.
Entertainment options are plentiful with Sling. Viewers can enjoy popular reality shows and on-demand content alongside their live programming choices.
For those wanting premium content, Sling provides add-ons like AMC+ and Paramount+ with SHOWTIME. Some promotions even include a free month of Premium Pass with base service selection.
The channel lineup is extensive enough to satisfy most viewers without overwhelming them with too many unwatched options.
5) Fubo: Starting at $60 per month
Fubo offers a variety of streaming plans for sports fans and TV watchers. According to recent information, their service starts at $60 per month, making it a mid-range option among live TV streaming services.
The company is known for its strong sports programming lineup. Fubo includes major networks like ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, and ESPN in their packages, allowing users to watch live sports without a cable subscription.
Fubo is also working on a new, more affordable option. They are preparing a “Sports & Broadcasting” package that will cost between $50 and $60 per month. This new tier might appeal to budget-conscious sports viewers.
Current Fubo plans include Pro, Elite, and Latino options. The Pro plan normally costs $84.99 but offers $30 off for the first month, bringing it down to $54.99. The Elite plan similarly offers a first-month discount.
A key benefit of Fubo is its included DVR service. Users can record their favorite shows and games to watch later. There’s also no contract requirement, so customers can cancel anytime without penalties.
For those comparing streaming services, Fubo competes with YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling, and DirecTV Stream. Each has different channel lineups and price points worth considering.
6) Netflix Standard with Ads: $6.99 per month
Netflix offers a budget-friendly option with its Standard with ads plan. This affordable tier costs just $6.99 per month in the US, making it the cheapest way to access Netflix’s vast library.
The plan launched on November 3, 2022, at 9 am PT. It gives viewers access to most of Netflix’s content while keeping costs low through the inclusion of ads.
These ads are designed to be short and seamless, not disrupting the viewing experience too much. Subscribers can still enjoy shows and movies in 1080p Full HD resolution, ensuring a quality viewing experience despite the lower price point.
There is some confusion about the current pricing. While most search results list the price at $6.99, one result shows $7.99 per month for the Standard with ads plan. This may reflect a recent price increase.
For households with multiple viewers, the Standard with ads plan allows watching on multiple devices at once. This makes it perfect for small families or roommates who want to share an account without breaking the bank.
The plan represents excellent value compared to other streaming services. Verizon even offers it as a perk with select mobile and home internet plans, bundling it with Max (formerly HBO Max) for added savings.
7) Disney+ and Hulu bundle: 72% off
Disney and Hulu have teamed up to offer an amazing streaming deal this March. New and returning eligible subscribers can get the Disney+ and Hulu bundle for just $2.99 per month, which is 72% off the regular price.
This special offer lasts for four months. After that, the price will go back to the standard rate of about $11 per month.
Both services come with ads at this price point. Users get access to all the hit shows and movies from Disney+ alongside Hulu’s big content library.
Disney+ brings viewers Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, and National Geographic content. Hulu adds thousands of TV episodes and movies from many networks and studios.
For those wanting more options, the bundle can also include ESPN+ for sports fans. Different package levels exist to fit various viewing needs.
The Disney+ app now lets users stream Hulu content directly, making it easier to watch everything in one place. This means less switching between apps to find favorite shows.
This deal comes as streaming services compete for subscribers. The big discount might help Disney keep current viewers while adding new ones.
8) Prime Video with Ads: Included with Amazon Prime
Amazon Prime members now get Prime Video with ads as part of their membership. This change started in July 2024, making it the new standard for all subscribers.
The ad-supported version shows limited commercials during movies and TV shows. These ads are shorter than regular TV commercials but still interrupt your viewing experience.
Prime Video offers a huge library of content. You can watch popular shows like “Bluey,” “Teen Mom Family Reunion,” and “Twin Peaks: The Return” with your subscription.
If you prefer to watch without ads, there’s an option. Amazon offers an upgrade to Prime Video Ad-Free for those who want uninterrupted viewing.
Some users have expressed frustration about this change. On Reddit, viewers have complained about paying for a service that now includes advertisements.
Prime Video also offers many ways to expand your viewing options. You can rent or buy movies with exclusive deals that often price titles at $15.99 or less.
Another benefit is the ability to add extra channels. Members can subscribe to additional streaming services like Paramount+, Starz, Acorn TV, and Crunchyroll directly through Prime Video.
These add-on subscriptions make Prime Video work like a hub for all your streaming needs. You can manage multiple services in one place instead of juggling different apps.
9) Peacock Premium: 12 months for a reduced rate
Peacock offers several ways to save money on its streaming service. You can get 12 months for the price of 10 with their annual plan, which costs $79.99 per year for the Premium tier.
Students get an even better deal. College and university students can stream for just $1.99 per month for a full year, which is 75% off the regular price.
Military members aren’t left out either. Those who verify their military status can get Premium for $3.99 monthly for 12 months.
Teachers qualify for a 50% discount on Peacock Premium. This brings the monthly cost down to $4 per month, making it much more affordable.
Peacock Premium gives users access to 80,000+ hours of content. This includes TV shows, movies, and sports that aren’t available on the free plan.
The discounted annual plan works out to about $6.67 per month. This saves subscribers about $20 compared to paying month-by-month at the regular rate.
These yearly plans help viewers save money while enjoying Peacock’s full content library. The service regularly updates its offerings with new shows and movies.
10) Paramount+ and Showtime Bundle: Discounted offer
Paramount+ offers a valuable bundle that combines its streaming service with Showtime content. This package, called Paramount+ with SHOWTIME, gives viewers access to a wide range of movies, shows, and original content in one convenient subscription.
The bundle is priced at $12.99 per month. This rate includes ad-free viewing for most content except live TV programming. Subscribers can also download movies and shows to watch offline.
New customers can try the service before committing. Paramount+ offers a 7-day free trial for those interested in testing the bundle’s features and content library.
College students can get special pricing in 2025. The student discount brings the Paramount+ Essential plan down to $5.99 per month, which is 25% off the regular $7.99 price.
For those who prefer to pay annually instead of monthly, Paramount+ offers yearly payment options. These annual plans range from $59.99 to $119.99 per year, providing savings of $12-$24 compared to monthly payments.
The Paramount+ with SHOWTIME bundle is marketed as their “Best Value” option. It includes everything in the Essential plan plus the bonus of no ads (except during live TV) and the ability to download content for offline viewing.
This bundle brings together Paramount’s extensive library with Showtime’s premium content. Viewers get access to hit originals, movies, documentaries, and live TV.
Evaluating Free Trials
Almost every streaming service offers free trials ranging from 7 to 30 days. Make a calendar of when each trial ends to avoid unexpected charges.
Try setting reminders on your phone three days before a trial ends. This gives you time to decide if the service is worth keeping.
Some services like Paramount+ and Peacock frequently extend free trial periods during special events or holidays. Black Friday and major sports tournaments often trigger these extended offers.
Consider using different email addresses for multiple trials of the same service. However, many platforms now require credit card information upfront.
Key tip: Don’t activate all free trials at once. Stagger them to maximize viewing time and properly evaluate each service’s content library.
Bundling Services for Discounts
Combining multiple streaming platforms can lead to significant savings. The Disney Bundle (Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+) offers up to 40% savings compared to individual subscriptions.
Cell phone carriers often include streaming perks:
- T-Mobile: Free Netflix with select plans
- Verizon: Disney Bundle included with certain packages
- AT&T: HBO Max discounts for wireless customers
Credit card companies sometimes offer streaming credits or cashback. American Express and Chase frequently provide statement credits for select streaming services.
Many streaming platforms now offer annual payment options at discounted rates. Paying for a year upfront typically saves 15-20% compared to monthly payments.
Students should check for special pricing. Services like Hulu, Paramount+, and Peacock offer significant student discounts with valid .edu email addresses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Streaming services offer many ways to save money through deals, bundles, and free trials. Smart strategies can help viewers get the content they want without breaking the bank.
Which platforms offer the best value for live TV streaming packages?
YouTube TV provides excellent value at $70 per month with over 100 channels and unlimited DVR storage. Many sports fans find this package worth the price.
Sling TV offers a budget-friendly alternative starting at just $23 per month. Their Orange and Blue packages let you pick channels that matter most to you.
Fubo is another strong contender starting at $60 per month, with a focus on sports programming plus news and entertainment channels.
How can consumers find current deals or discounts on streaming services?
Check streaming service websites directly for special promotions, especially during holidays or seasonal events. Many platforms offer limited-time deals for new subscribers.
Deal aggregator websites like TechRadar’s streaming deals section track current offers in one place. These sites update regularly with the latest discounts.
Social media accounts of streaming services often announce flash sales and promo codes. Following these accounts can alert you to money-saving opportunities when they happen.
What are the options for streaming service bundles that can save subscribers money?
The Disney+, Hulu, and Max bundle offers significant savings at $17 per month with ads or $30 without ads. This package provides access to thousands of shows and movies from three major platforms.
Many wireless carriers partner with streaming services to offer free or discounted subscriptions. Check with your phone provider about potential streaming perks.
Amazon Prime members get Prime Video included with their membership, plus options to add channels like Starz, which currently offers a deal of $3 for three months.
Are there any cost-effective alternatives to traditional cable for streaming TV shows and movies?
Free ad-supported services like Tubi, Pluto TV, and Freevee offer thousands of movies and TV shows without any subscription costs. The selection includes older titles but updates regularly.
An HD antenna lets you watch local broadcast channels for free with no monthly fees. This works well paired with a budget streaming service for cable networks.
Library-based services like Hoopla and Kanopy provide free streaming through your public library card. These platforms offer quality films, documentaries, and educational content.
Which streaming services provide a free trial, and for how long is the trial period?
Most major streaming services offer 7-day free trials, including Hulu, Paramount+, and Apple TV+. These let you test the platform before paying.
Some services like Netflix have eliminated their free trial programs. However, they now offer different pricing tiers to accommodate various budgets.
YouTube TV and Fubo typically offer longer 14-day trials. These extended periods give you time to explore their live TV offerings fully before committing.
What strategies can be used to minimize costs when subscribing to multiple streaming platforms?
Rotate subscriptions instead of keeping them all active at once. Subscribe to one service, watch what you want, then cancel and move to another.
Take advantage of free options like network apps that offer recent episodes without subscriptions. Many shows are available for free a day or week after they air.
Look for annual payment options which often discount the monthly rate by 15-20%. This strategy works best for services you know you’ll use year-round.
