After more than two decades as one of the key names in streaming, Hulu’s days as a standalone platform are officially numbered.
Disney confirmed this week that the service will be folded entirely into Disney+ by 2026, with the transition beginning as early as October. Starting Oct. 8, Hulu will replace the Star brand in Disney+’s international markets, becoming the general entertainment hub for adult-oriented programming abroad.
The company said subscribers in the U.S. will start to see more Hulu integration across the Disney+ app “as part of an ongoing and iterative slate of product updates.” The long-term goal: a single app that houses both Disney and Hulu content in one place.
Hulu launched in 2007 and grew into one of the most recognizable names in streaming, known for carrying current-season TV shows and originals like The Handmaid’s Tale. Disney acquired full control of the service this summer after completing its long-anticipated deal with Comcast.
While Hulu as an app will disappear, the brand itself isn’t going away. Disney plans to market “Hulu on Disney+” globally, betting that the name carries stronger recognition with international audiences than Star.
The shift comes at the same time Disney is raising rates across its streaming lineup. Beginning Oct. 21:
- Disney+ with ads will rise from $9.99 to $11.99 per month.
- Disney+ Premium (no ads) will jump from $16 to $19.
- Hulu with ads increases to $11.99, while the ad-free version stays at $18.99.
- Hulu + Live TV with ads jumps $7 to $90 per month.
- ESPN Select (formerly ESPN+) will increase by $1 to $12.99.
Disney says the changes reflect both the expanded catalog that will come with a unified Disney+/Hulu experience and ongoing investment in original programming.
What it means for subscribers
For now, customers can still subscribe to Disney+ and Hulu as separate services. But by 2026, all Hulu content will live inside Disney+, with the app and platform phased out entirely.
The move caps a major reshaping of Disney’s streaming strategy. After years of running multiple brands in parallel, the company is betting consolidation will make it easier for subscribers to find shows — and easier for Disney to compete in a crowded streaming market.