Disney+ Streaming Bundle Adds ESPN+
Disney+ has added ESPN+ to its streaming bundle, creating a powerhouse trio with Hulu. This addition brings select live sporting events and a vast library to subscribers, easily accessible through a branded ESPN tile on the home screen. With plans starting at $16.99 per month, the bundle offers a wide range of content.
Executives shared during a recent Zoom briefing that the bundle includes initial sports programming such as NBA and WNBA games, Australian Open tennis, and popular studio shows like PARDON THE INTERRUPTION. This move is a glimpse into Disney’s future plans, which include the launch of ESPN’s flagship streaming service in fall 2025.
Alisa Bowen, President of Disney+, described this expansion as a significant development for both Disney+ and ESPN’s streaming future. The integration aims to bridge the gap between sports and entertainment, appealing to a wider audience.
With 122.7 million Disney+ subscribers and 25.6 million ESPN+ subscribers, the addition of ESPN+ to the bundle provides existing and new subscribers with a robust lineup of content. The goal is to increase engagement and attract casual sports fans to the world of ESPN and ESPN+.
While Disney+ standalone subscribers won’t have free access to ESPN+ and Hulu, they can now easily navigate the available content through new ESPN and Hulu tiles. This seamless integration marks a new chapter in Disney’s streaming offerings.
Initially launched in 2018 as a supplement to ESPN’s main pay-TV service, ESPN+ has evolved to offer more live sports while still falling short of a comprehensive experience. The decision to incorporate ESPN’s full offering into direct-to-consumer streaming reflects the changing landscape of media consumption.
Despite these advancements, Disney faces legal challenges related to Venu Sports—a service disrupted by an injunction following an antitrust lawsuit. The legal battle continues as Disney and its partners aim to launch a sports-focused programming service in the future.
