Fubo and Hulu + Live TV Merger Set to Complete Sooner Than Anticipated

Earlier this year, Disney announced plans to merge its Hulu + Live TV with Fubo TV, with Disney obtaining a majority stake in Fubo. This decision came after a legal battle over a sports streaming service called “Venu Sports” that was meant to bring together ESPN, Warner Bros. Discovery, and FOX sports content.

A recent SEC filing has updated the merger timeline, originally set for the first half of 2026. Now, Fubo anticipates completing the merger by the end of the fourth quarter of this year or the first quarter of 2026. The direct-to-consumer version of Hulu will stay under Disney’s control.

Disney’s recent acquisition of Comcast’s 33% stake in Hulu likely enabled them to speed up the merger process with Fubo. The combined business will operate under the Fubo brand, led by the current Fubo management team. Disney will have a 70% ownership stake, pending regulatory and shareholder approvals.

Total revenue for both companies is $1.56 billion, with Hulu + Live TV contributing $1.12 billion and Fubo $416 million. However, combined operating expenses are $1.64 billion, leading to an $85 million operating loss. The merger aims to streamline operations and cut costs.

While Disney states that Fubo and Hulu + Live TV will remain separate services, there is speculation that they may eventually merge as streaming preferences evolve. The merger might also pave the way for Disney+ and Hulu to integrate more closely to benefit consumers and the company’s bottom line.

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