Cocomelon

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Cocomelon is a popular children’s YouTube channel that makes 3D animated nursery rhymes and original songs. It’s run by Moonbug Entertainment, which is part of Candle Media. The channel focuses on videos for young children, with on-screen lyrics and a mix of kids, adults, and animal characters interacting in everyday life.

Origins and name changes
- The YouTube channel started in September 2006 under the name checkgate, then became ABC Kid TV in 2013.
- It shifted to 3D animation in 2016 and rebranded as Cocomelon in 2018, introducing a set of recurring characters.
- The content originally centered on the alphabet, but moved toward nursery rhymes and kid-friendly songs.

Growth and reach
- Cocomelon is one of the most-subscribed and most-viewed channels on YouTube. By January 2026, it had about 200 million subscribers and over 214 billion views.
- The channel expanded globally with many language versions and later joined Netflix as a show and in other platforms.
- In 2021, Moonbug Entertainment bought Cocomelon for about $3 billion, and Candle Media later acquired Moonbug.

What it offers
- Videos are designed for ages 2 to 5 and mix educational songs with everyday scenarios. Most footage is 3D animation, with occasional live-action elements.
- The channel released several spin-offs and new formats, including:
- JJ’s Animal Time (a short-format series)
- It’s Cody Time (a Cody-focused spin-off)
- Nina’s Familia (Latine culture emphasis, bilingual content)
- Cocomelon Lane (a Netflix original series with a more traditional preschool TV feel)
- Cocomelon Classroom (live-action/animation hybrid, 2024)
- Netflix began airing Cocomelon as a Netflix Original in 2022. A new original movie is planned for release in 2027, distributed by Universal Pictures and produced with DreamWorks Animation and Moonbug.

Merchandise, events, and collaborations
- Cocomelon expanded into toys (with Jazwares) and a clothing line (with Puma).
- The brand has hosted live events such as Cocomelon Party Time and connected with other platforms through podcasts, Cameo messages, and streaming deals.
- Special experiences include Cocomelon Town at festivals and partnerships with entertainment and travel projects.

Reception and impact
- Common Sense Media says the show is appropriate for young children and complements the YouTube channel, though it notes the format is more for kids than adults.
- The Guardian described the show as very repetitive and simple, but emphasized it’s designed for preschoolers who enjoy it.
- Some experts and reports have raised concerns about screen time, pacing, and transparency about ownership, but the brand remains highly influential in children’s media.

Latest notes
- As of 2024–2026, Cocomelon remains a leading preschool brand with ongoing content, live experiences, and cross-media ventures, continuing to expand its global reach and product lines.