‘s planned streaming product will be part of the
Disney bundle when it launches in 2025. CEO said during recorded remarks at that the standalone
ESPN streamer will be available through for subscribers who bundle their Disney streaming services. He compared the ESPN integration into Disney+ to that of Hulu, which a week ago. The is headed for a 2025 debut and will include the full suite of ESPN’s channels, including all of its major rights packages (including the NFL,
NBA, MLB and NHL and a host of college sports). ESPN+, its current streaming service, has some live events now and library programming including the documentary banner. Iger also reiterated that the standalone ESPN streamer will also feature a host of engagement points, including fantasy sports, betting and e-commerce. Those features will also help the standalone platform differentiate itself from the ESPN-Fox Sports-Warner Bro. Discovery Sports that’s slated to launch later this year. Iger didn’t offer any additional updates on the joint venture in Wednesday’s remarks. In response to a shareholder question, Iger also said he’s “never been more bullish” on women’s sports featured on ESPN than he is now. He cited the for Monday’s Iowa-LSU matchup in the NCAA tournament as evidence that viewers will make women’s sports appointment viewing. The Disney+-Hulu integration had a in late 2023 before going wide on March 27. The company touted a slew of technical upgrades with the launch, with improved personalization and better ways to promote titles within the app. The launch also came with a big marketing push for non-bundle subscribers to upgrade. THR Newsletters Sign up for THR news straight to your inbox every day More from The
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