By Kayla DeKraker
A new partnership between Disney and Charter cable will bring the ad-supported version of Hulu to Charter Spectrum TV Select customers.
Customers won’t face extra costs for the new distribution deal, and additionally, eight Disney-owned networks will be added to the service. These include Disney Jr, Disney XD, Freeform, FXX, FXM, Nat Geo Wild, Nat Geo Mundo and BabyTV.
“This extension is a true testament to our mutual confidence in this innovative model — which already is showing improvement in subscriber churn — and our commitment to work creatively together to achieve win-win outcomes for both of us and most importantly for our customers — all achieved mid-cycle and absent from any of the typical pressures from expiring agreements,” said Tom Montemagno, executive vice president of programming acquisition for Charter.
Sean Breen, Disney Platform Distribution executive vice president, added, “With the addition of Hulu and the return of our full portfolio of channels, we’re pleased to expand and extend our agreement with Charter — delivering the most robust and valuable combination of linear and streaming entertainment for years to come.”
He continued, “This agreement reflects our continued focus on leaning into the strength of Disney’s best-in-class programming across every genre and platform — and our shared commitment with Charter to building innovative, consumer-focused distribution models that drive value across the board.”
Charter Spectrum plans include an 85+ Channels plan for $40/month, a 150+ Channels for $95/month, 160+ Channels for $105/month, as well as several Spanish plan options.
Streaming bundles are becoming common as consumers look for more cost-effective ways to enjoy entertainment.
“As audiences re-evaluate the cost of ad-free subscription streaming, consumers of all income levels and age brackets are finding value in ad-supported tiers and services,” explained the Video Advertising Bureau’s executive vice president Jason Wiese. “Viewers are balancing their spending in streaming by shifting towards advertising-based streaming services, watching more content through FAST channels and unlocking greater cost efficiencies through streaming bundles.”
In addition to creating new bundles, Spectrum uses its platform to give back to the community. Recently, the company helped remodel the YMI Cultural Center in Asheville, North Carolina, and create emergency supply bags for those in need.
“Community starts here,” Spectrum posted on Instagram. “We’re proud to give back to the neighborhoods where our customers and employees live and work.”
Related: Everything You Need to Know About Streaming Bundles
Will the new partnership with Disney and giving back to the community be enough to keep Charter Spectrum growing in an oversaturated market? Time will tell.
Read Next: Charter Stock Drops After Carriage Dispute with Disney
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