Disney folds Hulu + Live TV into Fubo

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On Wednesday, Disney completed its purchase of a controlling interest in FuboTV and immediately merged its Hulu + Live TV service with the sports streaming platform.

As a movie and TV fan, I’m really interested to hear about this new development! Basically, these two companies joining forces creates a major player in the cable and satellite TV world – they’ll be the sixth largest service in the country, reaching almost 6 million homes!

Financial terms were not disclosed.

Like other streaming services such as DirecTV, YouTube TV, and Charter Spectrum, Hulu + Live TV and Fubo both offer access to familiar channels like ABC, CBS, Fox News, Bravo, and ESPN.

The new company will be managed by a board of nine people, with Brad Bird, who used to lead Walt Disney International, as its chairman. Both Fubo and Hulu + Live TV will still be available as separate streaming services through their own apps.

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Fubo and Hulu’s live TV services are joining forces to create a new streaming option that includes channels like ABC and ESPN.

In January, Disney revealed its plans for a new streaming service following a lawsuit from Fubo. Fubo had sued Disney, Fox, and Warner Bros. Discovery, claiming their partnership to create Venu Sports would act like a monopoly and destroy Fubo’s own business.

A judge agreed based on anti-trust concerns, blocking further development of Venu.

Disney’s deal to acquire 70% of New York-based Fubo ended that litigation.

Fubo’s current CEO, David Gandler, who also helped start the company, will continue to lead the combined company, along with Fubo’s existing management team.

Hollywood Inc.

Disney is alerting customers about potential disruptions just before its deal with YouTube TV ends, coinciding with the start of football and basketball seasons.

Fubo has always aimed to be a streaming service focused on its users, offering innovative features and good value, according to a recent statement from Gandler. By partnering with Disney, they’re working to build a more adaptable streaming landscape that provides viewers with more options, all while improving profits and ensuring long-term growth.

Disney has agreed to provide a $145 million loan to the company. Additionally, Fubo’s advertising sales team will now be part of Disney’s sales group.

Fubo’s stock will still be available for public trading under the symbol FUBO. Current Fubo shareholders own approximately 30% of the company. In midday trading, the stock price rose slightly to $3.95.

Hollywood Inc.

The media industry is facing a big challenge as viewing habits change. It remains to be seen how many people will actually pay for most, but not all, of the sports content they enjoy.

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2025-10-29 20:01