Disney to Take 70% Stake in Fubo Live TV Merger
Walt Disney Co (NYSE: DIS) and FuboTV Inc (NYSE: FUBO) announced plans to combine their online live TV operations on Monday, forming North America’s second-largest digital pay-TV provider with 6.2 million subscribers.
Disney will maintain 70% ownership of the new venture, which will continue to operate under both the Fubo and Hulu + Live TV brands, the companies said. The deal excludes Hulu’s on-demand streaming service.
Fubo shares nearly tripled to $3.99 at the New York open, marking their biggest jump since January 2018, while Disney shares rose 0.7%.
Fubo co-founder David Gandler will lead the combined operation, which trails only YouTube TV in the digital pay-TV market. The merger aims to strengthen Fubo’s market position, as the company faced challenges with programming costs and subscriber retention.
The agreement includes a settlement of Fubo’s litigation against Venu Sports, the planned streaming platform from Disney, Fox Corp and Warner Bros. Discovery Inc. The Venu partners will pay Fubo $220 million, with Disney providing an additional $145 million term loan in 2026.
Under the deal, Disney will establish a new carriage agreement allowing Fubo to create a sports and broadcast service featuring Disney networks, including ABC and ESPN. Fubo, which currently streams over 55,000 live sporting events annually, will maintain its separate app while Hulu + Live TV remains part of Disney’s broader streaming bundle.
“This combination enables us to deliver on our promise to provide consumers with greater choice and flexibility,” Gandler said in a statement. “Additionally, this agreement allows us to scale effectively, strengthens Fubo’s balance sheet and positions us for positive cash flow. It’s a win for consumers, our shareholders, and the entire streaming industry.”
Information for this story was found via Bloomberg, and the sources and companies mentioned. The author has no securities or affiliations related to the organizations discussed. Not a recommendation to buy or sell. Always do additional research and consult a professional before purchasing a security. The author holds no licenses.
