Disney+ to Absorb Hulu in Major Streaming Overhaul

Disney CEO Bob Iger and CFO Hugh Johnston confirmed a major overhaul to Disney’s streaming strategy during the company’s quarterly earnings call, revealing that Hulu will be fully integrated into Disney+ to create a single, all-in-one app.

A Unified Streaming Experience

“We are building on Disney’s value proposition in streaming by combining Hulu into Disney+ to create a unified app experience featuring branded and general entertainment, news, and sports,” said Iger and Johnston. They described the move as “a one-of-a-kind entertainment destination for subscribers.”

The combined service will house all of Disney’s top-tier content—from Marvel and Star Wars to FX, ABC, and general entertainment—within one app, while ESPN will continue to operate as a separate platform with a newly launched streaming service.

More Than Just a Merger

“This will create an impressive package of entertainment,” they added, “pairing the highest-caliber brands and franchises, great general entertainment, family programming, news, and industry-leading live sports content in a single app.”

The executives said the unified app will offer greater convenience, personalization, and a broader content slate, aiming to stand out in a crowded streaming market.

Global Changes Coming

As part of the integration, Hulu will become Disney’s global general entertainment brand. This fall, it will replace the Star tile internationally on Disney+. Iger and Johnston also confirmed updates to the Disney+ app in the coming months, including “exciting new features and a more personalized homepage.”

Launch Timeline

Disney says the full Hulu-Disney+ integration will roll out to consumers in 2026. The company views this as a long-term play to increase retention and attract a wider subscriber base across all demographics.

“All of this work will culminate with the unified Disney+ and Hulu streaming app experience that will be available to consumers next year,” the two said.