Disney announced that its new direct-to-consumer ESPN service will launch on August 21. The move will bring all of ESPN’s TV content to the app for $29.99 per month in a move that will combine with the operation of the NFL Network and the popular Red Zone channel, where NFL fans tune in to see all the scoring during a busy Sunday slate. As part of the agreement with the NFL, ESPN will also take over the NFL’s fantasy football service, making ESPN the official fantasy football promoter of the NFL.
ESPN’s app will also become the home of WWE premium live events (PLE’s) in 2026. This means that all of the major events WWE holds will stop streaming on Peacock and shift to the ESPN app as well as ESPN TV channels, for some of its events. The network did not reveal what would be available in both places at the time of the announcement. PLE is the WWE designation for its major events like WrestleMania and other big monthly stadium shows. The company has repeatedly brought in more viewership monthly on Peacock and proven to be a driver for the streamer.
Overall, the move is a major shakeup for the TV industry because it means that consumers no longer even have to use a cable TV replacement like YouTube TV in order to get all of ESPN’s channels and more. Disney will also package the new service with Disney+ and Hulu for $35.99, most likely for the ad-supported tier of the respective services, which will also be getting a new look.
It’s a big week in streaming
