Cartoon Network website is dead. Here's why Warner Bros killed it

Cartoon Network will continue to offer 11 hours of programming from 6 am to 5 pm daily. (Image credit: Cartoon Network/Instagram)

Warner Bros has officially killed the Cartoon Network website and redirected all the content to a landing page on Max, its subscription-streaming service. Now, fans will have to sign up to watch their favorite Cartoon Network shows. According to a report in Variety, the site appears to have been pulled down on August 8.

The move appears to be a cost-cutting one while encouraging fans to pay up for Max.

“Looking for episodes of your favorite Cartoon Network shows? Check out what’s available to stream on Max (subscription required),” read a pop-up message Max's landing page. “Sign up for Max, where you can also create a Kids Profile with rating restrictions and additional privacy protections to keep it fun and kid-friendly! Cable subscribers, continue to enjoy your favorite CN programming on your TV and connected apps as well!”

The Cartoon Network site had previously offered full episodes and video clips for its roster of shows and offered free access to its games such as "Teen Titans GO!”, “Adventure Time” and “Gumball.”

Speaking to the publication, a Cartoon Network spokesperson said: “We are focusing on the Cartoon Network shows and social media where we find consumers are the most engaged and there is a meaningful potential for growth.” They added that on television, the network will continue to offer 11 hours of programming from 6 am to 5 pm daily.

The development comes a month after speculation that the channel is shutting down shocked fans.

In a statement, the network said, "Cartoon Network would like to clarify that there is no truth to the speculation that the network or the studio is shutting down. With a number of recently announced greenlights, we remain committed to continually investing in innovative content that entertains and inspires our viewers across the globe."

The hashtag “#RIPCartoonNetwork” began to trend on X after a post from the account "Animation Workers Ignited" featuring a video titled “Cartoon Network is dead?!” went viral.