Twitch secures exclusive content from Disney Digital Network’s top creators as YouTube payment furore endures
Social video site Twitch has sealed a landmark deal with Disney that will see four of its largest creators comes to the platform to create exclusive content.
Jacksepticeye, Markiplier, LuzuGames, and Strawburry17
Jacksepticeye, LuzuGames, Markiplier (all gaming channels), and Strawburry17 (general interest and music videos) will set up and manage channels on the site, broadcast live and create exclusive video-on-demand content as part of a multi-year partnership.
The news will come as a blow to rival YouTube that his stirred up low-level creators recently by changing its monestiation policies. While DND's creators together boast tens of millions of subscribers on the site, their appeal will reduce time on YouTube in each respective fandom.
Michael Aragon, senior vice president of content at Twitch, said the platform always listens to content creators to build them the features they need to be successful. He also threw some shade at YouTube by adding “including our robust approach to monetisation”.
Andrew Sugerman, executive vice president of publishing and digital media at Disney, added: “We’re always looking to create opportunities for our Disney Digital Network digital talent to bring their stories and content to more fans in new ways.
“Partnering with Twitch gives our biggest creators access to the platform’s tools, expertise and community to directly engage with and build their audiences.”
While such creators are vital to the growth of video platforms, brands are beginning to take a second look at their value. In the last year, brand safety issues have arisen around YouTubers like PewDiePie and Logan Paul.