Fubo subscribers face $95 base plan as Disney takes control

Streaming service announces significant price hike starting February, followed by major merger with Disney's Hulu division.

Fubo increases base plan to $94.99
Fubo increases base plan to $94.99

FuboTV subscribers face substantial price increases starting February 10, 2025, as the streaming service announced a rise in its base plan to $94.99 per month, accompanied by an increase in Regional Sports Fee to $15.99 monthly. This price adjustment arrives at a crucial moment in the streaming television industry, marking one of the highest base plan rates among major streaming services.

The announcement, delivered through a detailed subscriber communication, emphasized Fubo's commitment to providing comprehensive entertainment experiences, including live sports, news, and various shows. According to the company's statement, rising costs from programming partners necessitated passing along a portion of these increases to maintain service quality.

The price increase reflects broader challenges facing streaming providers. Live sports content, in particular, commands premium pricing in the current media landscape. According to subscriber discussions on social media platforms, many viewers maintain their subscriptions primarily for sports content, despite rising costs. Industry analysts note that live sports remain one of the few programming categories that consistently drive live viewership and command premium advertising rates.

Traditional cable providers have begun positioning themselves as potentially more cost-effective alternatives. Some cable operators, including Spectrum, now offer streaming packages that include popular services like Max, Disney+, ESPN+, and Paramount+, potentially providing better value for consumers seeking comprehensive entertainment options.

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The timing of the price increase gained additional context when, on January 6, 2025, Fubo announced its merger with Disney's Hulu + Live TV business. The transaction, which will give Disney approximately 70% ownership of Fubo, represents a significant consolidation in the virtual MVPD (Multichannel Video Programming Distributor) market. The combined entity will serve over 6.2 million North American subscribers, creating a more formidable competitor in the streaming landscape.

David Gandler, who will continue as CEO of the combined entity, emphasized the strategic benefits of the merger. "This combination enables us to deliver on our promise to provide consumers with greater choice and flexibility," Gandler stated. The deal includes provisions for Fubo to create a new Sports & Broadcasting service featuring Disney's premier sports and broadcast networks, including ABC, ESPN channels, and related content.

The merger announcement coincides with the resolution of significant legal disputes within the industry. Fubo's successful legal challenge against the proposed Venu Sports platform, a joint venture between Disney, FOX, and Warner Bros. Discovery, had previously highlighted competitive tensions in the sports streaming market. The settlement includes a $220 million payment to Fubo from the media companies and a commitment from Disney to provide a $145 million term loan in 2026.

The changes arrive as consumers increasingly evaluate their streaming subscriptions amid rising costs. Some subscribers have expressed concerns about the cumulative effect of various streaming service price increases. According to social media discussions, many users are reassessing their streaming portfolios, with some considering returns to traditional cable packages or exploring alternative viewing options.

While the merger could potentially lead to operational efficiencies, the immediate impact on consumers includes one of the highest base plan rates in the streaming industry. The combined $110.98 monthly cost (including the Regional Sports Fee) positions Fubo at a premium price point in the market.

The merger requires various regulatory approvals and Fubo shareholder approval before completion. Both services will continue operating independently post-merger, with separate consumer offerings and independent content negotiation capabilities. The transaction includes provisions for a $130 million termination fee payable to Fubo under certain circumstances, including failure to obtain regulatory approvals.

Justin Warbrooke, Executive Vice President at Disney, indicated that the combination would allow both services to enhance their offerings while providing consumers with expanded choices. However, the long-term impact on pricing and package options remains to be seen as the industry continues to evolve.

The changes reflect broader trends in media consumption and distribution, as traditional boundaries between cable, satellite, and streaming services increasingly blur. As content costs, particularly for sports programming, continue to rise, industry players face ongoing challenges in balancing service quality with consumer affordability.