Disney hikes streaming prices as Kimmel suspension fuels backlash

Core Viewpoint - The Walt Disney Company is increasing the prices of its streaming services, including Disney+ and bundles with Hulu and ESPN, amidst recent controversies surrounding Jimmy Kimmel's late night show suspension [1][2][3] Pricing Changes - Starting from 21 October, the Disney+ and Hulu package will rise from $10.99 to $12.99, while the ad-free plan remains at $19.99 [2] - Plans that include Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN with ads will increase from $16.99 to $19.99 [2] - This marks the fourth consecutive year that Disney+ has raised its streaming prices since its launch in 2019 [6] Consumer Reactions - Consumers have reacted to the Kimmel controversy by canceling their subscriptions to Disney+ and its bundles [3] - A spokesperson for the company stated that the price increases were planned for months and not related to the Kimmel situation [3] Context of Kimmel's Suspension - Kimmel's suspension followed comments he made regarding the Make America Great Again movement in the wake of Charlie Kirk's death, which were deemed offensive [4][5] - Nexstar Media Group, which owns 28 ABC affiliates, pulled Kimmel's show due to the comments, leading Disney to suspend it as well [5] - The "cancel Disney+" campaign reportedly caused more subscriber churn than previous Netflix boycotts [5]