Hulu pulled Astroworld: Concert From Hell from its platform after receiving many critics, via Variety. The documentary special was aired in late November. The news special was produced by KTRK, ABC’s owned-and-operated local station in Houston. Hulu released the film on its platform on Wednesday but took it down quickly after controversies blasted.
Astroworld: Concert From Hell features the recent event of the Astroworld Festival. The festival became a tragic event, causing ten people to lose their lives and thousands in panic. The music festival was headlined by Houston native Travis Scott, with big-name guest performers such as Drake. Investigations on this incident are still in progress, and several lawsuits are filed against Scott, Live Nation, and other affiliated parties.
The 50-minute documentary displays the background and development of the festival, with many interviews of officials and attendees. It also shows how an exciting event turned into a disaster.
Social media users are not happy with Hulu’s action to release the film on its streaming service. One comment says “Hulu making a documentary about Astroworld is in poor taste all around. People are still burying their loved ones. The legal cases haven’t even started. Great documentaries are done when all the facts are laid out. Not enough time has passed to fully discuss this.” Most criticism focus on blaming the special that came far too soon following the tragic event. Many assumed the documentary is produced by the Disney-controlled streamer.
Despite the confusion circulating the social media outcry, Hulu decided to avoid further discussion and pulled off the special. Some complained that they were watching the special midway when Hulu suddenly stopped them from watching.
Scott responded to the tragedy with an apology statement. According to Variety, attendees received full refunds.