The Varsity Hubo? Fulu? Inside a Shock Streaming Mashup
Jan 8, 2025
Eriq Gardner, Puck's legal specialist and author, dives into the seismic merger between Disney's Hulu + Live TV and Fubo, discussing its impact on ESPN’s streaming future. He explores the potential legal battles stemming from consumer complaints and the competitive landscape surrounding DirecTV. Eriq also shares his insights on the anticipated launch of Venue Sports, stressing the importance of timing around major events like the Super Bowl, and how younger audiences are shifting towards platforms like YouTube for sports content.
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Potential Legal Challenges Remain
- The Fubo-Disney merger likely ends the antitrust lawsuit, but other parties could intervene.
- Potential intervenors include the Justice Department, states, European regulators, competitors, and class action lawyers.
Fubo's Financial Position
- Fubo's financial situation likely played a role in the merger's timing.
- The merger occurred right after the NFL season, a time when streaming services see a drop in subscribers.
Fubo's Legal Standing
- Eriq Gardner believed Fubo was in a strong legal position before the merger.
- He would have bet on Fubo winning in lower courts, but the Supreme Court outcome was less certain.