Disney+ Announces Addition of ESPN Content, Aligning with Trend of Streaming Services Offering Live Sports to Viewers

Disney+ is following the trend of streaming services offering live sports to viewers. Bob Iger, CEO of Disney+, announced that the platform will be adding ESPN content before the end of the year, including select live games and studio programming. This move is seen as a precursor to the launch of an enhanced standalone ESPN streaming service in 2025.

While details about the amount of ESPN programming on Disney+ are limited, Iger mentioned that only a “modest” amount will be available, likely to drive subscribers to the paid ESPN option. Earlier this year, Disney+ added some Hulu programming, which helped make the service profitable in its first three months and brought in $47 million for the company.

Disney is currently finalizing agreements with Fox Sports and Warner Bros. Discovery to launch a sports streaming service that will carry games from major sports leagues like the NFL, MLB, NBA, and NHL. This move aligns with a trend among streaming services like Amazon, Apple, and Max who have also invested in live sports programming to attract and retain subscribers.

Live sports are considered a key driver for subscribers to streaming services as they are seen as must-watch content that can engage viewers and encourage them to stay on the platform. By introducing ESPN content to its platform and setting up an enhanced standalone ESPN streaming service in 2025