Mark Wahlberg’s Streaming Success Leaves Rivals in the Dust

Mark Wahlberg, a familiar face in the world of cinema, has managed to reinvent himself in the digital age, securing a place at the very top of the streaming hierarchy. This year, the actor’s earnings have soared, with estimates suggesting he’s pocketed a staggering $60 million, largely thanks to his strategic focus on direct-to-streaming releases. His recent ventures have not only brought him financial success but have also cemented his reputation as a leading figure in the industry.

Dominating the Digital Arena

Wahlberg’s approach has been straightforward: embrace the streaming revolution. Since 2020, he’s appeared in seven projects for platforms such as Netflix, Apple TV+, Prime Video, and Paramount+, consistently landing lucrative deals. For each new project with Apple and Prime Video, he’s reportedly earned between $20 and $25 million, a testament to his enduring appeal and business acumen.

His latest films, Play Dirty and The Family Plan 2, have both made significant waves. The former debuted as the top title across all streaming services on Prime Video, while the latter, despite receiving rather lukewarm reviews, shot straight to number one on Apple TV+ upon release. Both films showcase Wahlberg’s knack for picking projects that resonate with audiences, even if critics remain unconvinced.

Recent Releases and Their Impact

In 2025, Wahlberg’s output has been particularly prolific. Play Dirty, a heist thriller, and The Family Plan 2, a family-oriented action comedy, have both drawn considerable attention. The two films differ in tone and style, yet each has found its audience. Play Dirty features a star-studded cast and is based on Donald E. Westlake’s Parker novels, while The Family Plan 2 continues the story of its 2023 predecessor.

Despite modest ratings—Play Dirty holds a 5.9/10 on IMDb and 43% on Rotten Tomatoes, while The Family Plan 2 sits at 5.6/10 and 35% respectively—both have performed exceptionally well in terms of viewership. The trend is clear: big names and accessible streaming releases are drawing in audiences, even as traditional box office hits become less reliable. As one industry insider put it,

The biggest star in streaming is Mark Wahlberg. Without a doubt on the movie side. There’s no question, just go look at all his movies.

Shifting Tides in the Film Industry

While other high-profile releases have struggled to make an impact in cinemas, Wahlberg’s films have thrived online. The likes of Dwayne Johnson’s Smashing Machine and Glen Powell’s The Running Man have not met expectations at the box office, highlighting a broader shift in viewing habits. According to industry analysts, Wahlberg’s streaming projects have generated an estimated $680 million in global revenue since 2020, underscoring the scale of his success.

Wahlberg’s earlier attempts at box office glory in the 2020s, aside from the Uncharted franchise, were met with limited enthusiasm. Titles such as Arthur the King, Father Stu, Joe Bell, and Scoob! failed to make a significant mark. However, his pivot to streaming has proven to be a masterstroke, revitalising his career and ensuring his continued relevance.

Looking Ahead

Even films that underperformed in cinemas, like Flight Risk, have found new life on streaming platforms, with Wahlberg’s star power drawing viewers in droves. His earlier work, including Shooter, has also enjoyed a resurgence, re-entering the top ten on Paramount+ nearly twenty years after its original release. With several new projects on the horizon, Wahlberg’s dominance in the streaming world shows no sign of waning.

The Family Plan 2 is available to stream on Apple TV+ in the UK.

Play Dirty can be found on Prime Video in the UK.

Flight Risk is currently streaming on HBO Max in the UK.