Earlier this year, YouTube outpaced Netflix in America for 12 months straight as the most-watched streaming platform, with users watching over 1 billion hours of its content daily. Netflix was not about to let that slide, of course. The streaming giant is now working to snatch up YouTube gems to solidify its spot as the top streaming service in all living rooms across America. But what this means for fans is that the shows they once enjoyed for free on YouTube will now come with a subscription fee. And they are, per usual, not too happy about it. 

Netflix is negotiating to acquire one of YouTube’s hottest shows, Hot Ones. According to Bloomberg, the company is angling to seal a deal with the owner of Hot Ones, BuzzFeed, to stream the show live on its platform. This move could be a goldmine for Netflix, as Hot Ones attracts many A-listers and could also open up new revenue streams- since the OTT platform is trying to expand its advertising business.

YouTube is undoubtedly a heavyweight in the streaming arena. But Netflix does not see it as the same kind of threat to its viewership as some of its competitors do. In fact, the only real threat that YouTube poses to Netflix comes from the advertising side of things. And with shows like Hot Ones, even this issue might get a fix. However, this strategy is in no way beneficial to the original Hot Ones audience.

Fans “bet those wings are gonna SLAP” as the 'Bad Boys' Star, Will Smith Prepares for His Debut on 'Hot Ones'

Ever since the report, fans have criticized Netflix for plucking the best shows from YouTube and cashing in at the expense of viewers.

Netflix has had its share of success in replicating some YouTube content in specific cases. For instance, Cocomelon, the animated series for toddlers, has become a hit on both YouTube and Netflix. However, the streaming giant is not content with just that. Fans, who were already grumbling about Netflix’s relentless subscription price hikes, are now boiling over at the platform’s audacious move to shift YouTube shows and incorporate them into its own lineup. 

Some feared that Netflix could never do justice to Hot Ones' charm. "They'll ruin it," said a fan. 

Meanwhile, some fans were happy to see the host, Sean Evans, growing with his show. 

A win for one often means a loss for another, or more often, the audience- but it is nearly impossible for all parties to come out ahead from such business deals. Nonetheless, for those who are already regular Netflix viewers, it is time to buckle up for some hilarious celebrity interviews as they squirm, wipe their eyes, and fan their faces while digging into those blazing hot chicken wings. 

“They didn’t invite you on the show”: Millie Bobby Brown Mocks Noah Schnapp Making a Cameo on Her ‘Hot Ones’ Episode

What do you think about Netflix acquiring Hot Ones? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!