Disney takes 70% of combined Fubo-Hulu + Live TV
The Walt Disney Company has agreed to combine its Hulu + Live TV virtual MVPD business with Fubo, resulting in Disney owning 70% of the combined entity. The merged company will operate under the Fubo brand, led by Fubo's existing management, with both Hulu + Live TV and Fubo services continuing to be offered separately, representing a combined 6.2 million North American subscribers. The deal also settles all litigation between Fubo and Disney, ESPN, FOX, and Warner Bros. Discovery, with Disney, FOX, and Warner Bros. Discovery making a $220 million aggregate payment to Fubo.
Key Takeaways
- Disney will own 70% of the combined company at closing.
- The combined business will operate under the Fubo publicly traded name (NYSE: FUBO).
- David Gandler and Fubo’s existing management team will run the merged company.
- Hulu + Live TV and Fubo will remain separate offerings after the deal closes.
- Disney, FOX and Warner Bros. Discovery will make a combined $220 million cash payment to Fubo, and Disney will provide a $145 million term loan in 2026.
Why It Matters
This gives Disney control of a larger virtual MVPD platform while leaving Hulu + Live TV and Fubo as separate consumer offers. The structure also settles litigation tied to Fubo, Disney, ESPN, FOX and Warner Bros. Discovery, and adds a new Sports & Broadcast service carrying Disney networks such as ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, SECN, ACCN, ESPNEWS and ESPN+. What to watch: Fubo’s shareholder vote, regulatory approvals, and whether the combined company closes with the stated 6.2 million North American subscribers and immediate cash-flow-positive profile.
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