Streaming Giants Disney and Fubo Join Forces

You're binge-watching your favorite shows on Hulu, and suddenly you can switch to live sports or news seamlessly. That's what's happening as Disney combines its Hulu+ Live TV service with Fubo. This merger means these two streaming titans will work together, offering users a massive lineup of live TV channels and on-demand content. The deal isn't just about combining services. Disney will own 70% of the new company, while Fubo's shareholders will keep the remaining 30%. This partnership is expected to be completed within a year and a half. Even after the merger, both Hulu+ Live TV and Fubo will still be available separately. Hulu+ Live TV can be accessed through the Hulu app or as part of Disney's bundle, which includes Hulu, Disney+, and ESPN+. The merger doesn't include Hulu's original programming, like "Only Murders in the Building" and "The Handmaid's Tale. " These shows will continue to compete with other streaming platforms, such as Netflix. David Gandler, Fubo's co-founder and CEO, said during a call with investors that having two separate platforms isn't ideal. He believes there are benefits to uniting these services, especially since Fubo focuses on sports and news, while Hulu+ Live TV is known for entertainment. This deal is expected to make Fubo instantly profitable and a major player in the streaming industry. Fubo's stock jumped significantly after the announcement, showing investor enthusiasm for the merger.