Disney’s Hulu + Live TV sees 60% subscription increase

How does the dispute between Disney and Charter affect Hulu + Live TV subscriptions?

Hulu + Live TV

Disney’s Hulu + Live TV streaming service has seen a 60% increase in subscriptions since a carriage dispute with Charter began last week. The jump in the number of Hulu + Live TV subscriptions is based on the figures provided by a Disney representative to Deadline.

Carriage dispute between Disney and Charter

The carriage dispute between Disney and Charter centers on the price that Charter is willing to pay Disney for the rights to carry its channels. The carriage dispute had left 18 Disney cable networks and eight ABC stations dark on Charter’s Spectrum service last Thursday, August 31, 2023.

It is believed that the surge in Hulu + Live TV subscriptions is likely due to the fact that it is the only way for Charter customers to watch Disney channels without having to switch to a different streaming service. Additionally, Hulu + Live TV offers a wider selection of channels than Charter’s traditional cable package, and it is more affordable than traditional cable.

Disney - Charter carriage dispute
Disney – Charter carriage dispute

Though the carriage dispute between Disney and Charter is still ongoing, it’s safe to say that it is having a positive impact on Hulu + Live TV subscriptions. This increase in subscriptions suggests that Disney’s strategy of bundling its streaming services together is a successful.

The carriage dispute is also a sign of the changing landscape of the TV industry. As more and more people cut the cord, cable companies are increasingly reliant on carriage fees from programmers like Disney. This gives programmers like Disney more leverage in negotiations, and it could lead to higher prices for consumers.

The carriage dispute between Disney and Charter is a complex issue with no easy solutions. It remains to be seen how the dispute will be resolved, but it is clear that it is a sign of the changing times.

Disney boosts Hulu + Live TV promotions

According to Deadline, the recent jump in Hulu + Live TV subscriptions is primarily due to Disney’s own promotion of the service because it has not been among those recommended to consumers by Charter.

Since Charter stopped recommending Hulu + Live TV to its customers, Disney has started to run ads for the service on TV, radio, and social media. Charter, on the other hand, has even teamed up with a rival provider, Fubo, to offer a discount to new subscribers.

Hulu interface
Hulu interface

What is Hulu + Live TV?

Hulu + Live TV is a streaming service that offers a live TV lineup of over 75 channels. It also includes access to Hulu’s on-demand library of TV shows and movies.

What channels are included in Hulu + Live TV?

The channel lineup varies depending on the location. However, some of the channels that are typically included are:

  • ABC
  • CBS
  • FOX
  • NBC
  • ESPN
  • TNT
  • TBS
  • CNN
  • FOX News
  • MSNBC
  • HGTV
  • Food Network

How much does Hulu + Live TV cost?

The basic plan for Hulu + Live TV costs $69.99 per month.

Can I record shows on Hulu + Live TV?

Yes, you can record shows on Hulu + Live TV with Unlimited DVR. This means that you can record as many shows as you want and keep them for up to 90 days.

Can I watch Hulu + Live TV on multiple devices?

Yes, you can watch Hulu + Live TV on up to 3 devices at the same time.

Is there a free trial for Hulu + Live TV?

Yes, there is a free trial for Hulu + Live TV. You can sign up for a free trial for 7 days.

How many subscribers does Hulu + Live TV?

Originally launched in 2017, Hulu + Live TV has steadily grown to become one of the top providers in the United States, with 4.3 million subscribers, as of 2023.

Source: Deadline