Warner Bros. Discovery is set to unveil TEEN TORTURE, a revealing three-part documentary series exposing the shadowed domain of America’s “troubled teen” industry (TTI). Directed by Tara Malone, this daring narrative sheds light on the billion-dollar industry constructed on the contentious premise of “tough love” as a methodology, despite a chilling history of deaths, abuse, and trauma suffered by its subjects. Over six decades, these programs have operated under the radar, shielded by formidable forces.
Premiering on Max, the series illuminates the grim reality of the TTI, presenting firsthand accounts from survivors and whistleblowers who have stood up to challenge the status quo. Spearheading a social media revolution in 2021, these voices, including well-known figures like rap artist Bhad Bhabie, recount tales of extreme mistreatment and cult-like entrenchment experienced by the youth subjected to these facilities.
Despite initial triumphs in raising awareness, the TTI persists tenaciously, bolstered by deep-rooted authority, unyielding against attempts at scrutiny and transformation.
Year-to-date Performance
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
WBD’s Upcoming Content to Aid Subscriber Growth
Warner Bros. Discovery’s repertoire includes a rich variety of upcoming content, spanning from original series to movie premieres and network releases.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for WBD’s 2024 DTC subscribers stands at 106.13 million, reflecting a year-over-year growth of 8.6%.
Exciting premieres lined up include MILF of Norway and the Quad Gods in July. Fans of animated adventures can look forward to Justice League: Crisis on Infinite Earths Part Two and Kite Man: Hell Yeah!.
Furthermore, Discovery Channel boasts a captivating lineup of shark-themed documentaries like Jaws vs. Leviathan, Sydney Harbor Shark Invasion, and Great White Serial Killer: Sea of Blood. These are complemented by riveting programs such as Expedition Unknown: Shark Wrecks of WWII and Monster Hammerheads: Species X.
Additions like Love Lies Bleeding from A24, the HBO Original documentary Charlie Hustle & The Matter of Pete Rose, and the CNN Originals series Secrets & Spies: A Nuclear Game further enrich the content roster.
Despite a 36.7% year-to-date decline in shares for this Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) entity, attributed to fierce competition from streaming giants like Netflix, Amazon, and Disney, Warner Bros. Discovery boasts a 99.6 million strong subscriber base, showcasing resilience in the market.
Positive Outlook and Conclusion
Warner Bros. Discovery’s expansive content library and future productions signal promising prospects for the company.
Amidst a gradual yet steady advertising landscape, the company is anticipated to thrive. Advertising revenues spiked by 70% ex-FX in the first quarter, fueled by heightened engagement on Max in the U.S., driven by the inception of B/R Sports on Max in October 2023 and growth in ad-lite subscriptions.
Forecasts indicate a narrowed loss per share for the second quarter of 2024, with a Zacks Consensus Estimate at 16 cents, having decreased by 6 cents in the last 60 days. Likewise, the consensus for the full-year loss per share is pinned at 38 cents, reflecting a 10 cent narrowing over the same period.