Yahoo Financeยท2025-10-29 16:45Core Insights - Walt Disney Co. has finalized its acquisition of a majority stake in FuboTV, merging its Hulu + Live TV service with Fubo, creating the sixth largest pay-TV company in the U.S. with nearly 6 million domestic subscribers [1][2]. Company Overview - The financial terms of the deal were not disclosed, but the combined entity will operate under a nine-member board led by Brad Bird, former chairman of Walt Disney International [3]. - The merged services will continue to be offered separately through their respective apps, maintaining the brand identities of Fubo and Hulu + Live TV [3]. Legal Context - The acquisition follows a lawsuit filed by Fubo against Disney and other media companies regarding a proposed streaming joint venture, Venu Sports, which Fubo claimed would harm its business [4][5]. - A judge blocked the development of Venu due to anti-trust concerns, and Disney's acquisition of 70% of Fubo resolved this litigation [5]. Management and Strategy - The combined business will be led by Fubo's CEO David Gandler, who co-founded the service, along with Fubo's existing management team [5]. - Gandler emphasized the goal of creating a consumer-first streaming platform that enhances choice and drives profitability [5]. Financial Support - Fubo will have access to a $145 million term loan provided by Disney, and its ad sales team will integrate with Disney's sales organization [6]. - Fubo's stock will continue to be publicly traded under the FUBO ticker, with existing shareholders holding about 30% of the company [6].