Disney Doubles Down on Video Podcasts, Inks Streaming Deal With iHeartMedia
The Walt Disney Company has partnered with iHeartMedia to bring video podcast content to Disney+ and Hulu. Starting August 14, six titles will launch on the services, including "Hey Jonas!" hosted by The Jonas Brothers (coinciding with Camp Rock 3's release), alongside retrospective shows such as "Pod Meets World" (Boy Meets World) and "Desperately Devoted" (Desperate Housewives), plus original entertainment featuring conversations with performers like Zach Braff and Donald Faison.
The deal reflects the media industry's broader trend of embedding podcast content within streaming ecosystems. Both companies framed the arrangement as deepening viewer engagement by offering multiple formats for audiences to interact with established entertainment properties and personalities. Disney has previously launched podcast spin-offs from shows like American Idol, whilst iHeartMedia emphasised Disney's established subscriber base as an ideal platform for expanding podcast reach beyond traditional audio listening.
- Disney+ and Hulu will debut six iHeartMedia podcasts beginning August 14, led by 'Hey Jonas!' hosted by The Jonas Brothers
- Content includes rewatch shows tied to classic TV series plus original conversations with entertainers, reflecting the industry's broader shift toward integrating audio into streaming platforms
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