Disney has officially announced its new streaming service, Disney+ is set to launch November 12th in the US at the price of $6.99 month. According to Deadline, customers can purchase an annual service for $69.99, for a savings of nearly $15. This comes as a welcome surprise for streaming service users, as Netflix has just raised its price in the U.S. to $8.99 a month.
Disney’s CEO, Bob Iger, began the presentation with the positivity Disney has always been known for: “Today’s presentation will show you where we’re going, but also remind you that we are starting from a position of strength and optimism.” Direct-to-Consumer and International chairman Kevin Mayer also reminded the audience of Disney’s propensity to provide “the brands that matter most to consumers when it comes to great entertainment.”
A slew of shows has been announced, as well, including ones that were previously expected. These include the entire Star Wars franchise, including The Mandalorian series, several new Marvel series, the first 30 seasons of The Simpsons, as well as some series based on films, including The Sandlot, Love, Simon, and a Frozen 2 docuseries. Concerning Marvel, the new series will include shows entitled WandaVision, Falcon and Winter Soldier, Loki, and What If… Other live actions series are to include High School Musical: The Musical: The Series, Diary of Female President, and an untitled Cassian Andor Series. In the animated shorts and series section, Monsters at Work and Star Wars: The Clone Wars were announced, among others.
Regarding the look of Disney+, a demo was given during the presentation revealing an interface similar to that of Apple TV or Netflix. In other words, subscribers can expect to see a grid with different brands and content, according to CNN. The top bar will contain a “hero carousel” with the names of the main Disney+ original content, including Pixar and Marvel.
Additionally, Disney’s CEO, Bob Iger, announced he would be stepping down from his position in 2021. “I’m expecting my contract to expire at the end of 2021,” Iger told investors after the event, adding that he isn’t throwing in the towel yet. “We are really committed to this,” he added. “We feel that this is the best way to success.”