Disney, who will own 60% of Hulu after the 21st Century Fox deal closes next year, intends to make Hulu available internationally in the near future.
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According to estimates, Hulu is the third largest premium streaming service in the USA in terms of subscribers, only topped by Netflix and Amazon, and the second largest in terms of viewing hours, only topped by Netflix.
After Disney’s acquisition of 21st Century Fox closes, Disney will own 60% of Hulu, with AT&T and Comcast sitting on 20% each. Disney chairman and CEO Beo Iger confirms that Disney is planning to keep investing in Hulu, despite its plans to launch its own Disney+ streaming service.
Part of that plan involves investing in more original content for Hulu. The streaming service is known for shows such as The Handmaids Tale, Castle Rock, and Chance. Iger said that Disney is aiming to create a unified television studio that can supply content to its various services as channels.
- “If we create the television studio we aim to create, we’re going to have an engine at the company coming from different entities. We’ll be able to supply Hulu with a lot of high-quality content — more than they currently have,” said Bob Iger, chairman and CEO, Disney.

Hulu will be focused on general entertainment whereas Disney+ will offer family entertainment. Hulu is currently available in the US and Japan only. A subscription starts at 8 dollars and there are apps for most of the popular TV platforms, including Android TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, and select Smart TVs.
Disney did not announce a timeline or details as it will have to discuss the plans with the other shareholders after the Fox deal is completed. Bob Iger hinted that Disney may be interested in acquiring the remaining 40% shares, if the others are willing to sell.
2019 will most likely a transformative year on the TV market. Disney and WarnerMedia have both announced plans to launch new streaming services in the fourth quarter of 2019. Apple is also expected to join the race. It now appears that Hulu can be added to the list.
- Source: Disney via Variety