YouTube to channels that run fake trailers: No revenue

TOI Tech Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Apr 3, 2025, 20:01 IST

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YouTube has demonetised channels like Screen Culture and KH Studio Trailers that post AI-generated fake movie trailers. This move aims to curb misleading content monetisation. Despite their creative goals, these channels are now barred from earning ad revenue and face uncertain appeal outcomes.

YouTube

YouTube has demonetised channels that upload AI-generated fake movie trailers, a report claims. YouTube is reportedly targeting channels that trick users with fake trailers that promise, for example, surprise Marvel sequels or a Harry Potter and the Cursed Child trailer featuring Daniel Radcliffe. With this move, the Google-owned video streaming platform aims to curb the monetisation of misleading content that attracts millions of views. The platform reportedly wants to strip these channels of their revenue streams rather than removing the videos outright.
According to a report by Deadline, popular accounts such as Screen Culture and KH Studio Trailers, which together boast over two million subscribers, have been affected by these new measures as YouTube intensifies its crackdown on deceptive clickbait content.

Fake movie trailer channels are violating YouTube’s policies

Screen Culture, a channel with over 1.4 million subscribers, is known for creating conceptual fan trailers that closely resemble official movie previews.

Meanwhile, KH Studios boasts nearly 700,000 subscribers, uploads fake trailers based on hypothetical scenarios, such as casting Henry Cavill as James Bond or envisioning Leonardo DiCaprio in a Squid Game season.
Both channels have been suspended from YouTube's Partner Program, rendering them unable to earn ad revenue from their videos. While they have the option to appeal, success is uncertain. YouTube's policies explicitly prohibit content that is misleading, deceptive, or primarily designed to attract views without substantial original contribution.
In a statement to Deadline, KH Studios' founder said: “I’ve been running KH Studio full-time for over three years now, putting everything into it. It’s tough to see it grouped under ‘misleading content�?in the demonetisation decision when my goal has always been to explore creative possibilities �?not to misrepresent real releases.�?br/>However, Screen Culture is yet to share an official statement about YouTube’s decision.

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