Disney takes full control of Hulu after striking deal with Comcast

Walt Disney Co. has announced that it will take full control over video streaming service Hulu after striking a deal with Comcast.

In return, Disney and Comcast have entered a 'put/call' agreement that will give Comcast the option to sell its stake in the streaming video service to Disney. 

Under the deal, Comcast can ask Disney to buy the 33% stake its subsidiary NBCUniversiary owns in Hulu as early as January 2024. 

Comcast is guaranteed at least $5.9bn for its Hulu stake, giving the video streaming service a valuation of at least $27.5bn.

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“Hulu represents the best of television, with its incredible array of award-winning original content, rich library of popular series and movies, and live TV offerings,” said Disney CEO Bob Iger.

“We are now able to completely integrate Hulu into our direct-to-consumer business and leverage the full power of The Walt Disney Company’s brands and creative engines to make the service even more compelling and a greater value for consumers.”