TLDR: Netflix’s K-Pop Demon Hunters became the most-streamed movie of 2025, racking up 20.5 billion viewing minutes in the U.S. alone, according to Nielsen’s year-end data.

Image Source: Netflix

Mid-Year Release Becomes Streaming Phenomenon

Despite debuting in June 2025—midway through the year—the animated kids’ film topped annual streaming charts and remained on Nielsen’s Streaming Top 10 for 25 consecutive weeks.

The movie’s breakout success prompted Netflix to give it limited theatrical releases following its streaming popularity.

Record-Breaking Performance

• Primary audience: 48% of viewers aged 2-11
• Global record: 482 million views over six months (Netflix’s internal data)
• Hit soundtrack: “Golden” topped Billboard Hot 100 for eight weeks and earned an Oscar nomination for Best Original Song

The film follows pop stars who secretly slay monsters to protect their fans.

Other Top Streaming Movies of 2025

According to Nielsen’s ARTEY Awards data:

1. K-Pop Demon Hunters – 20.5 billion minutes (Netflix)

2. Moana 2 – 9.4 billion minutes (Disney+)

• Combined with the 2016 original, the Moana franchise totaled over 15 billion viewing minutes

3. Happy Gilmore 2 – 7.1 billion minutes (Netflix)

• Top streaming movie for general audiences starring Adam Sandler

4. Wicked – 6.8 billion minutes (Peacock/Amazon Prime Video)

• The movie musical became available on Peacock in spring before moving to Prime Video

Source: Variety