
Disney's Price Hike: A New Chapter in Streaming Services
Disney has announced a significant price increase for its streaming services, set to take effect on October 21 for new subscribers, and soon after for existing ones. This decision comes in a tumultuous climate following the abrupt suspension of Jimmy Kimmel from Disney-owned ABC, which has ignited calls for boycotting the service among Hollywood circles and concerned fans.
Understanding the Price Increases Across the Board
Under the new pricing structure, Disney+ with ads and Hulu with ads will rise by $2 to $11.99 per month. Disney+ Premium will see a $3 increase, setting the monthly fee at $18.99. Similarly, the Disney+ and Hulu bundle will now cost $12.99 per month, while ESPN Select rises by $1 to $12.99, and Hulu’s Live TV Only plan will jump by $7 to $88.99 per month. In contrast, prices for Hulu Premium, ESPN Unlimited, and the Disney+ with Hulu Premium bundle will remain unchanged, sheltering some subscribers from these hikes.
Backlash Amidst Controversy
The timing of the price hikes has not gone unnoticed. Reports suggest a sharp uptick in cancellation attempts, with some users claiming that Disney+'s cancellation page crashed due to high traffic. The backlash stems not just from the price increases, but also the perceived silencing of Kimmel, which sparked protests from various writers and unions. Over 400 artists, including the likes of Tom Hanks and Jane Fonda, have voiced their displeasure, amplifying the call for a subscription boycott.
Disney's Subscriber Woes and Future Outlook
Despite claims from Disney that these price hikes were pre-planned, the company is currently facing a worrying trend, having already lost over 1 million subscribers. With a total of 207.4 million subscribers across its platforms—Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+—the planned increases may impact its ability to retain its audience. The situation paints a complex picture of a company navigating both financial pressures and public relations challenges amid wider industry shifts in attitudes toward streaming services.
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