Netflix's shrinking DVD service faces uncertain future

Originally cast in a starring role, Netflix's original DVD-by-mail service has been reduced to a bit player that may eventually get killed off as the company focuses on its booming video streaming service.

Netflix's fourth-quarter earnings report released on Wednesday provided the latest glimpse at the DVD service's descent into oblivion as the streaming service hogs the spotlight.

The DVD service shed 159,000 subscribers during the final three months of last year to end December with 4.1 million customers. That's an 11-year low for a format that gave Netflix its initial shot at stardom, allowing it out-innovate and outmaneuver Blockbuster Video, then the king of home-video rentals.