Disney targeting 2021 for international Hulu launch

Streaming service Hulu, which offers movies and TV shows not fit for Disney+ plus original content and more, is scheduled to launch internationally next year, according to Disney's CEO.

Hulu and Disney+
Disney+ offers access to family and kids-friendly content rated no higher than PG13. Content for more mature audiences as well as other types of content will be reserved for Hulu, which currently has over 30 million subscribers in USA and a few other regions, ranking it amongst the biggest subscription streaming services.

After acquiring 21st Century Fox, Disney now controls franchises like Deadpool, Kingsman and Family Guy. It also owns X-Men and although most of the X-Men movies will be available to stream on Disney+, a few titles such as Logan will be available only on Hulu.

Hulu is also producing original content, including TV series such as The Handmaid's Tale and The Act. In many regions outside of the US, these shows are licensed to other streaming services so Disney will have to cancel the licensing deals before it can offer its own original content internationally.



During last week’s earnings call, Disney CEO Bob Iger said that Disney is targeting 2021 for the international launch of Hulu. However, the company will prioritize the international expansion of Disney+ so plans could be delayed slightly, he added.

Hulu used to be a collaborate between four US-based media giants but through a series of acquisitions Disney has gained full control of the video streaming service. In the US, the company is offering a Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ (sports streaming) bundle at a discount. 

- Source: Disney