Two streaming service titans have come together as Disney+ and Hulu are now set to merge in 2026. The end product would be a combined service that offers both of their programs under a Disney label.
So next time you binge-watch Hulu’s The Bear, you may only be a few clicks away from Bambi.
Other notable Hulu shows that will be acquired by Disney include The Handmaid’s Tale, Only Murders in the Building, and Nine Perfect Strangers.
These critically acclaimed adult-oriented shows will contribute to Disney’s growing catalog that contains, well, just about everything. The growing platform will contain blockbuster behemoths like Star Wars and the MCU alongside live sports and Disney’s own popular back catalog.
To reference one of their properties, it seems like the streaming service is obtaining all of the stones in their gauntlet.
By making this deal, Disney is able to offer a “far better consumer experience”. This is due to the belief that putting everything on one app will be convenient for viewers, according to Variety.
After the merger, Hulu will exist under the Disney flagship company. Another Variety article mentioned that Disney said it would be “fully integrating” Hulu. As a result, many features associated with the Hulu brand will be phased out to exist under the Disney name.
One example is that the Hulu + Live TV feature has been combined with Fubo, a Disney-owned live TV counterpart. The two will still be separately marketed due to being parts of streaming services that can still be purchased separately.
That being said, the same Variety article notes that the Hulu + Live TV feature is intended to be completely integrated into Disney during 2026.
But what brought this change? One reason for the decision: saving cash.
According to Business Insider, it’s believed the merger could save Disney billions, with a b, in operating fees. The merger will allow the two to share technology and other resources.
While slashing fees is always nice, the notion that a service known for its edgier original content is combining with Disney could raise some eyebrows. Despite being associated with different types of content, the two companies’ relationship goes far back.
Disney first became a shareholder in Hulu in 2009, a year after its launch. As Disney continued to expand, it took a bigger role in Hulu. In 2019, Disney acquired the entertainment assets of 21st Century Fox, which included enough stock to give Disney majority ownership according to CNN.
While the relationship isn’t new, it is unclear how exactly the merger will play out.
Some fans may mourn an independent Hulu, but its shows aren’t going anywhere. What is clear is that this new combined service will likely set new standards in the streaming game.
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