Disney Raises Prices on Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN Select Amid Ongoing Controversy

Disney Raises Prices on Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN Select Amid Ongoing Controversy The Walt Disney Company has announced price hikes for its popular streaming services, including Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN Select, effective October 21. The increases range from 10 to 20 percent, depending on the plan, marking the latest move in a series of price adjustments by the media conglomerate. According to industry analysts, the price hike is not surprising given the competitive nature of the streaming market. "Disney's decision to raise prices is a reflection of the company's efforts to maintain profitability in a crowded and increasingly saturated market," said Daniel Ives, managing director at Wedbush Securities. "The company needs to balance its pricing strategy with the need to attract and retain subscribers." As of October 21, Disney+ will cost between $12 and $19 per month, depending on whether users opt for an ad-supported or ad-free plan. The annual, ad-free plan will increase from $160 to $190. Subscribers to Hulu and ESPN Select will also face price hikes, with increases ranging from 10 to 17.6 percent. The price adjustments come as Disney continues to navigate controversy surrounding its content and business practices. In recent months, the company has faced criticism over its handling of intellectual property rights, diversity and inclusion initiatives, and labor disputes with unionized workers. "This is just another example of Disney's willingness to prioritize profits over people," said Maria Rodriguez, a spokesperson for the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA). "The company needs to take responsibility for its actions and prioritize the well-being of its employees and customers." Disney has raised prices on its streaming services multiple times in recent years. The company most recently increased prices in October 2024, following similar hikes in October 2023 and December 2022. Industry experts predict that the price hike will have a minimal impact on Disney's subscriber base, given the competitive nature of the market. "While some subscribers may be deterred by the price increase, many others will continue to opt for Disney's premium content," said Ives. As the streaming landscape continues to evolve, Disney is likely to face ongoing scrutiny over its pricing strategy and business practices. The company has announced plans to expand its streaming services into new markets, including international territories, which could further fuel controversy and criticism. Background: The Walt Disney Company has been expanding its streaming presence in recent years through a series of high-profile acquisitions, including the purchase of 21st Century Fox's film and television assets. The company's decision to raise prices on its streaming services comes as it continues to navigate the complexities of the digital media landscape. Additional Perspectives: Industry analysts predict that Disney's price hike will have a minimal impact on its subscriber base, given the competitive nature of the market. "Disney is playing catch-up in a crowded and increasingly saturated market," said Ives. "The company needs to balance its pricing strategy with the need to attract and retain subscribers." Current Status: As of October 21, Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN Select will face price hikes ranging from 10 to 20 percent. The annual, ad-free plan for Disney+ will increase from $160 to $190. Next Developments: Disney is expected to continue expanding its streaming presence into new markets, including international territories. The company's pricing strategy and business practices are likely to remain under scrutiny as the streaming landscape continues to evolve. *Reporting by Arstechnica.*