Newsmax is officially coming to Hulu + Live TV, with a launch slated for July 2025. As part of a multi-year agreement between The Walt Disney Company and the conservative-leaning network, this partnership marks a major expansion for Newsmax and signals Disney’s continued efforts to broaden Hulu’s live TV offerings.
A Strategic Move by Disney Amid Political and Business Shifts
Disney’s decision to add Newsmax to Hulu’s lineup is more than just a content update—it’s a strategic play in a highly competitive streaming and live TV landscape. Hulu + Live TV already includes mainstream news outlets such as CNN, Fox News, and MSNBC. Adding Newsmax helps the platform cater to a broader political spectrum, potentially drawing in conservative-leaning viewers who may otherwise favor platforms like YouTube TV or Sling.
This deal also comes as traditional cable continues to decline, and media giants double down on streaming bundles to maintain influence and revenue. By partnering with Newsmax, Disney ensures Hulu + Live TV remains competitive in the ever-shifting pay TV market, especially ahead of a contentious 2026 election cycle.
Newsmax’s Growing Footprint in U.S. Homes
Once considered a fringe outlet, Newsmax has grown into one of the most-watched conservative news networks, especially following the 2020 U.S. Presidential election. With this new Hulu deal, the network is now available on all major pay TV platforms, bringing its total reach to over 60 million American households. That puts it in the same distribution class as Fox News, CNN, and MSNBC—networks that have dominated cable news for decades.
Newsmax CEO Chris Ruddy hailed the deal as “a milestone,” noting that the network is now positioned to compete head-to-head with legacy media outlets on equal footing.
Viewer Backlash and Political Tension
Despite the business rationale behind the deal, the announcement has stirred controversy online. Social media platforms like Reddit and X (formerly Twitter) have seen waves of subscriber criticism. Some Hulu users say they plan to cancel their subscriptions, accusing Disney of enabling far-right propaganda.
Critics also point to previous Newsmax segments that have spread misinformation or heavily partisan narratives. Advocacy groups have already begun pressuring Disney to reconsider the move, especially given the company’s public commitments to inclusivity and social responsibility.
However, supporters argue that offering diverse viewpoints is exactly what a modern streaming bundle should do—and they welcome the ideological counterbalance Newsmax brings to a lineup that already includes progressive and centrist voices.
What It Means for the Future of Streaming News
The addition of Newsmax reflects a broader trend in media: streaming platforms are becoming the new battlegrounds for political influence. As younger audiences shift away from cable and toward digital-first services, networks that want to remain relevant must secure distribution on platforms like Hulu, YouTube TV, and Roku.
Disney’s move also shows that, regardless of the political leanings of a channel, business priorities often take precedence. With Newsmax averaging hundreds of thousands of nightly viewers and ranking among the top conservative cable channels, its presence on Hulu may prove to be a lucrative decision—even if it comes with a dose of controversy.
Ultimately, this marks a turning point not just for Newsmax, but for the streaming news landscape as a whole—where access, visibility, and influence are increasingly dictated not by traditional cable providers, but by tech-enabled platforms looking to capture every corner of the American audience.
Latest About Hulu Live TV Plans
Streaming services continue to evolve, and Hulu + Live TV remains a popular option for those looking to cut the cord while keeping access to live television. As of March 2025, Hulu offers several Live TV subscription plans starting at $81.99 per month for the basic Live TV Only package. This option provides access to over 95 live channels but doesn’t include Hulu’s on-demand streaming library.
For viewers seeking a more comprehensive entertainment solution, Hulu offers bundled packages that combine Live TV with their on-demand library and other Disney-owned services like Disney+ and ESPN+. The standard bundle with ads across all services is priced at $82.99 per month. Subscribers who prefer an ad-free experience can upgrade to premium plans, though these come at a higher price point.
All Hulu + Live TV plans now include unlimited DVR storage for at least nine months, allowing viewers to record their favorite shows and watch them later. This feature has become standard across their packages, addressing a common pain point for live TV streamers who don’t want to miss scheduled programming.
Key Takeaways
- Hulu + Live TV plans start at $81.99 monthly for live channels only, with bundled options including Disney+ and ESPN+ at $82.99.
- All plans include unlimited DVR storage for at least nine months, letting viewers record and save their favorite shows.
- Subscribers can choose between ad-supported and ad-free experiences across the various streaming services in the bundle.
Exploring Hulu + Live TV Plans and Pricing
Hulu + Live TV offers comprehensive streaming options combining on-demand content with live television. The service provides multiple plan tiers with varying prices based on ad preferences and additional features.
Core Features of Hulu Live TV
Hulu + Live TV delivers access to 85+ live channels alongside Hulu’s extensive on-demand library. The service includes local networks, sports channels, news, and entertainment programming in one package.
Users receive cloud DVR storage to record their favorite shows and movies. The platform works across multiple devices, allowing subscribers to watch content on TVs, computers, tablets, and smartphones.
Disney+ and ESPN+ are now bundled with all Hulu + Live TV subscriptions, adding significant value. This three-service combination provides access to exclusive Disney content and live sports coverage that isn’t available on basic Hulu plans.
Comparing Subscription Tiers
Hulu offers several Live TV subscription options to fit different preferences and budgets:
Hulu (With Ads) + Live TV: Priced at $82.99/month after a 3-day free trial. This base tier includes all live channels plus the Hulu streaming library with advertisements.
Hulu (With Ads) + Live TV, Disney+ (No Ads) and ESPN+ (With Ads): Available for $87.99/month, this plan removes ads from the Disney+ portion.
Hulu (No Ads) + Live TV: The premium option costs $95.99/month, providing ad-free access to Hulu’s on-demand library alongside all live channels.
The Live TV Only plan costs $81.99/month for those primarily interested in live television without the on-demand library emphasis.
Content and Streaming Quality
Hulu + Live TV offers viewers a robust selection of programming in various video qualities, making it a comprehensive option for those seeking both live and on-demand entertainment. The service delivers content across multiple devices with a distinctive interface that integrates its various programming options.
Live and On-Demand Programming
Hulu + Live TV provides access to a wide range of live channels covering sports, news, and entertainment. The service offers local channels in most markets, making it easier for cord-cutters to stay connected to regional programming.
Live content streams primarily in high definition, with most channels available in 720p. Some content and devices support 1080p streaming for improved picture quality. While 4K streaming is available for select on-demand content, live TV programming currently doesn’t support 4K resolution.
Sports fans can access major networks like ESPN and Fox Sports, though it’s worth noting that regional sports networks are not included in the package. News junkies benefit from channels like CNN, Fox News, and MSNBC.
Hulu Originals and Exclusive Content
Subscribers to Hulu + Live TV gain full access to Hulu’s extensive on-demand library, including award-winning Hulu Originals. Popular series like “The Handmaid’s Tale,” “Only Murders in the Building,” and “The Bear” are available exclusively through the platform.
The service also includes Disney+ in its bundle, providing even more exclusive content for just a small additional cost. This represents significant value for subscribers interested in content from both streaming services.
Unlike some competitors, Hulu doesn’t charge extra for 4K content when it’s available. This makes accessing higher-quality streams more affordable compared to other services that place premium-quality content behind additional paywalls.
Streaming Devices and Interface
Hulu + Live TV works across most popular streaming devices, including Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, and gaming consoles. Mobile viewing is supported on iOS and Android devices, allowing subscribers to watch on the go.
The interface combines both live and on-demand content in a single app, which some users find convenient while others consider somewhat perplexing. Navigation can take some adjustment for new users as the service integrates Hulu’s traditional catalog with live programming.
The platform features a customizable guide for live TV that allows users to mark favorites and quickly find preferred channels. Search functionality helps locate specific shows or movies across both live and on-demand libraries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Hulu + Live TV has undergone several changes in 2025, affecting pricing, channel lineups, and available features. Here are answers to common questions about the current state of Hulu’s live television offerings.
What changes have recently been made to Hulu Live TV plans and pricing?
As of March 2025, Hulu has adjusted its Live TV pricing structure. The Live TV Only plan now costs $81.99 per month, which provides access to live content without the Hulu streaming library.
The full Hulu + Live TV package, which includes the on-demand library plus Disney+ and ESPN+, has seen minor price adjustments since late 2024. Hulu continues to offer different tiers to accommodate various viewing preferences and budgets.
Which channels are included in the current Hulu + Live TV packages?
Hulu + Live TV provides access to over 90 live channels spanning news, sports, entertainment, and local networks. Major networks include ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC in most markets.
Sports fans can enjoy ESPN, FS1, NFL Network, and other sports-focused channels. News coverage comes from CNN, Fox News, MSNBC, and more. Entertainment options include TBS, TNT, FX, and numerous other popular channels.
Are users able to customize their Hulu Live TV channel lineup?
Yes, Hulu + Live TV subscribers can customize their channel lineup through add-on packages. Sports enthusiasts can add the Sports Add-on for additional channels like NFL RedZone.
Entertainment and Spanish-language add-ons are also available. While the base package cannot be fully customized to select individual channels, these add-on bundles offer some flexibility to tailor the viewing experience.
Does Hulu + Live TV offer a free trial, and if so, what are the terms?
Hulu + Live TV typically offers new subscribers a free trial period. The standard trial lasts for 7 days, allowing users to test the full service including live channels and on-demand content.
Trial availability may vary throughout the year. Users need to provide payment information when signing up, and will be automatically charged after the trial period unless they cancel before it expires.
How does Hulu + Live TV’s channel selection compare to competing services like Sling TV and YouTube TV?
Hulu + Live TV offers a competitive channel lineup compared to other streaming TV services. While YouTube TV provides slightly more channels overall, Hulu’s integration with its extensive on-demand library creates added value.
Sling TV typically offers fewer channels in its base packages but at a lower price point. Hulu + Live TV’s inclusion of Disney+ and ESPN+ in its package creates a more comprehensive entertainment solution than most competitors provide in a single subscription.
Are there any discounts available for Hulu Live TV, such as for seniors?
Currently, Hulu does not offer specific senior discounts for its Live TV plans. However, the service occasionally runs promotional pricing for all new subscribers.
Students may qualify for special pricing through the Spotify Premium Student bundle, which includes Hulu’s basic plan. For Live TV specifically, bundling with Disney+ and ESPN+ provides some cost savings compared to subscribing to each service separately.
