When it comes to anime streaming services, Hulu might not immediately be what comes to mind. In a world with as dominant a dedicated service as Crunchyroll is, Hulu’s role is more of a consolidation of high-quality options. But now, after just shy of 18 years as a streaming service, Hulu confirms it’s getting ready to shutter the app.
With the update courtesy of Variety, Hulu is set to phase out its standalone app starting in 2026 in the U.S. to merge it with the Disney+ service. International users will see Disney+ rebrand the Star tile as Hulu on October 8, with Hulu intended to represent Disney’s global entertainment brand. For anime fans, it’s the end of an era.
Hulu Begins App Phaseout for Move to Disney+
While Disney+ as a service has faced troubling times, especially with the recent mass-cancellation event following Jimmy Kimmel’s brief suspension, this Hulu development is a blow to longtime subscribers. The service has an array of generally excellent programming before even getting into its anime selection. Its departure is sure to be sad, particularly for anime fans.
The service is a home to all-time multiplatform hits like Demon Slayer and Naruto, as well as recent prestige titles like Medalist, Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War, and Dororo. With Hulu’s integration into Disney+, this move stands to potentially drive more users to the flagship platform. But there’s one caveat that might deter users.
Beginning October 21, Disney+ will increase its base ad-supported tier from $9.99 to $11.99 (USD). Hulu users, meanwhile, will see the same price increase for its respective ad-supported tier, with Hulu + Live TV with ads increasing from $83 to $90 a month. International Disney+ users, meanwhile, may see changes like Canada’s November 4 hike, per Disney+ Canada’s portal.
It’s the End of an Era for Anime Fans With Hulu’s Departure
While Netflix leads the pack for anime streaming thanks to its massive general subscriber base, Hulu and Crunchyroll have followed closely behind. Crunchyroll’s case of raw selection is understandable, but the sheer quality of Hulu’s curated selection is unmatched. This included shojo hits like Nana, and underrated Shonen Jump classics like Hikaru no Go.
Crunchyroll’s case of raw selection is understandable, but the sheer quality and curated selection of Hulu was unbeatable. This included shojo hits like Nana, and underrated Shonen Jump classics like Hikaru no Go.
Rolling the Hulu app into Disney+ is an enticing option for those juggling both in the U.S. The change could even feel superficial for international users, but more changes are coming. The rebrand brings with it a revamping of the Disney+ platform home screen. This includes personalized algorithmic recommendations and a “hero carousel” featuring the characters Disney has to offer.