ESPN Arrives on Disney+ #

Walt Disney has introduced a dedicated ESPN tile on its streaming platform, Disney+, allowing ESPN+ subscribers to enjoy sports programming directly within the application. Next fall, a new flagship service will grant subscribers full access to ESPN content through this integration. Disney+ members will gain access to around 100 live games without needing a separate ESPN subscription. These events include popular sports such as college football and basketball, NBA, NHL, Major League Baseball, tennis, golf, and UFC.

Next week’s distinctive “Simpsons” broadcast of the NFL’s “Monday Night Football” between the Cincinnati Bengals and Dallas Cowboys, along with five NBA Christmas games, will also be accessible to Disney+ subscribers. Disney+ aims to become a comprehensive entertainment platform offering kids and family content, general entertainment, and sports.

Beyond live sports, some ESPN studio programming like “College Gameday” and “Pardon the Interruption,” alongside select podcasts, will feature on Disney+ for non-ESPN subscribers. Additional sports films and documentaries will be seasonally aligned with this content.

The ESPN content will be integrated into Disney+ search functionality. Subscribers without ESPN will be prompted to subscribe if they select content requiring such access.

Two new studio shows are in development for Disney+, including a daily “SportsCenter” specifically for Disney+ subscribers, which will air live and be available on demand. A weekly women’s sports show is also planned, catering to Disney+’s female audience.

ESPN+ currently offers around 30,000 live games annually, charging $11.99 monthly when purchased independently. The Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ bundle, which includes ads, is priced at $16.99 per month.