Disney Tells Streaming Customers It Is Raising Prices In Move Planned Prior To Jimmy Kimmel Controversy

Group 1 - Disney is raising the price of its streaming services Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ starting October 21, with Disney+ increasing by $2 to $11.99 per month [1] - This marks the fourth price hike in four years for Disney, reflecting a broader trend in the streaming industry where companies are increasing costs due to pressures from cord-cutting [1] - The price increases come amid backlash against Disney+ following the suspension of Jimmy Kimmel's late-night show, leading to social media posts and celebrity testimonials about canceled subscriptions [2] Group 2 - Disney CFO Hugh Johnston indicated that the company plans to continue increasing prices in line with the value provided to consumers, attributing growth to exceptional content from its movie and TV studios [4] - The economic environment, including inflation and rising consumer goods costs, has impacted the overall market and is a factor in the upcoming 2024 presidential election [3]