Disney+ and Hulu Expand Video Podcast Push With iHeartMedia Deal
Disney+ and Hulu are adding six iHeartMedia video podcasts to their streaming libraries, extending Disney’s move into a format that is becoming increasingly important across streaming and the creator economy.
The agreement starts with Hey Jonas!, the Jonas Brothers’ official podcast, which will arrive on Disney+ and Hulu on August 14. Other titles joining the platforms include Pod Meets World, Desperately Devoted, Fake Doctors, Real Friends with Zach and Donald, StraightioLab and Thanks Dad with Ego Nwodim.
The programmes will roll out over the coming months, with new episodes continuing weekly. Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
Disney has already been building podcast sections across Disney+ and Hulu, including companion shows connected to programmes such as Paradise, American Idol and Dancing with the Stars. The new iHeartMedia agreement significantly expands that catalogue with established podcast brands and personalities.
The deal also reflects a wider change in streaming. Video podcasts, once largely associated with YouTube and social platforms, are increasingly appearing alongside traditional television and film libraries. Netflix and HBO Max have also been adding podcast programming as streamers compete for more of viewers’ time.
For creators and podcast companies, that opens another distribution route beyond audio apps and social video. For streaming services, podcasts offer comparatively flexible programming built around personalities and existing fan communities.
