How HBO Makes Money from Game of Thrones

Game of Thrones, the epic fantasy series based on George R.R. Martin’s novels, has been a massive hit for HBO since its debut in 2011. The show has not only captivated audiences worldwide but also generated significant revenue for the network. Let’s delve into the various ways HBO has monetized this beloved series.

Subscription Revenue

One of the primary sources of income for HBO is its subscription model. HBO Go, the network’s streaming service, offers subscribers access to a vast library of original programming, including Game of Thrones. As the show gained popularity, more people subscribed to HBO, leading to increased revenue from subscription fees.

According to a report by Variety, HBO had approximately 46.9 million subscribers in 2019. Assuming an average subscription fee of $15 per month, HBO’s subscription revenue from Game of Thrones alone could be around $1.5 billion annually.

Merchandising

Merchandising has been a significant revenue stream for HBO, especially for a show like Game of Thrones, which has a vast and passionate fanbase. The network has released a wide range of merchandise, including clothing, home decor, collectibles, and even a board game.

According to a report by Statista, the Game of Thrones merchandise market was valued at approximately $1.5 billion in 2019. This figure is expected to grow as the show continues to attract new fans and the existing fanbase continues to support the brand.

International Licensing

Game of Thrones has been a global phenomenon, with viewers tuning in from all corners of the world. HBO has leveraged this international popularity by licensing the show to various networks in different countries.

According to a report by Deadline, HBO has earned over $1 billion in international licensing fees for Game of Thrones. This revenue is generated from the sale of the show’s rights to local networks, which then broadcast the series in their respective countries.

Home Video Sales and Streaming

After the conclusion of the series, HBO released the complete Game of Thrones collection on home video and digital platforms. This allowed fans to purchase or rent the entire series, generating additional revenue for the network.

According to a report by The Hollywood Reporter, HBO earned over $100 million in home video sales and streaming revenue for Game of Thrones. This figure is likely to increase as more fans discover the series and seek to own the complete collection.

Marketing and Sponsorship

HBO has also generated revenue through marketing and sponsorship deals related to Game of Thrones. The show has been featured in various promotional campaigns, and sponsors have paid to have their brands associated with the series.

According to a report by Ad Age, HBO has earned over $50 million in marketing and sponsorship revenue for Game of Thrones. This revenue is generated from partnerships with companies looking to capitalize on the show’s popularity.

Table: Revenue Streams for Game of Thrones

Revenue Stream	Estimated Revenue
Subscription Revenue	$1.5 billion
Merchandising	$1.5 billion
International Licensing	$1 billion
Home Video Sales and Streaming	$100 million
Marketing and Sponsorship	$50 million
Total	$4.15 billion

In conclusion, HBO has successfully monetized Game of Thrones through various revenue streams, including subscription revenue, merchandising, international licensing, home video sales and streaming, and marketing and sponsorship. The show’s immense popularity has allowed HBO to generate significant revenue, solidifying its position as a leading premium cable network.