Disney’s Streaming Subscription Fee Increase
Disney announced on Wednesday that it will increase its streaming subscription fees. This news came on the same day that the late-night talk show Jimmy Kimmel Live! was brought back after a temporary suspension. The show was taken off the air after the host, Jimmy Kimmel, made comments about the murder of a young man, which led to a backlash from conservative activists.
The Suspension of Jimmy Kimmel Live!
The show was suspended last week after Kimmel’s comments sparked outrage from conservative groups. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) started a petition, which was signed by hundreds of Hollywood personalities, including Tom Hanks and Jennifer Aniston, calling for the show to be reinstated. Additionally, there were threats to boycott Disney+. However, on Monday, Disney CEO Bob Iger and his television chief, Dana Walden, announced that the show would be restored.
The Price Hike
The price increase for Disney+ will see the basic plan with ads rise by $2 to $11.99, while the ad-free plan will increase by $3 to $18.99. Hulu with ads will also increase by $2 to $11.99, while the ad-free Hulu plan will remain at $18.99. The Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ bundle will remain at $29.99 for another year. These changes will come into effect on October 21.
Reaction to the Price Hike
The timing of the price hike could not have been worse, coming on the same day that Jimmy Kimmel Live! was brought back. In his opening monologue on Tuesday evening, Kimmel addressed the controversy surrounding his comments, saying that his intention was not to blame a particular group for the actions of an individual. He also expressed his support for freedom of speech and his admiration for Erika Kirk, the widow of Charlie Kirk, who publicly denounced the man charged with her husband’s murder.
The Future of Jimmy Kimmel Live!
Despite the controversy, Jimmy Kimmel Live! is back on the air. However, not all stations are showing the program. Sinclair and Nexstar, which control nearly 70 affiliate stations, did not air the show on Tuesday and are still in discussions with ABC. The future of the show remains uncertain, but for now, it is back on the air, and Kimmel is speaking out about the importance of freedom of speech and the need to condemn violence.
