Streaming Platform Cuts Monthly Fees in Uncommon Move
In a rare decision for a streaming service, Fubo has announced reductions in its monthly subscription fees. This move follows the recent acquisition of Fubo by Disney, which was completed in October.
Price Cuts on Subscription Plans
Starting on or after January 1, 2026, Fubo will implement price reductions of up to 14.8 percent for certain subscription plans. The new pricing structure is as follows:
- Essential Plan: $74 per month (previously $85/month)
- Pro Plan: $75 per month (previously $85/month)
- Elite Plan: $84 per month (previously $95/month)
Reasons Behind the Change
This announcement is particularly notable given that most pricing updates tend to signal higher costs for subscribers. However, the price reduction appears necessary for Fubo, especially since it has not carried NBCUniversal channels since November 21. The missing channels include:
- Local NBC affiliates
- Telemundo
- Nine regional sports channels
- 32 other channels including Bravo, CNBC, MSNBC, and USA Network
Fubo has acknowledged that subscribers may see even lower fees after January if they no longer have access to certain regional sports networks.
Impact of the NBCUniversal Blackout
The blackout of NBCUniversal channels has prompted Fubo to offer affected subscribers a credit of $15 as compensation. A Fubo spokesperson indicated that the price cut reflects NBCUniversal’s removal of its networks from Fubo’s platform.
While the future of these prices remains uncertain, a Fubo representative mentioned that any updates on pricing will depend on whether NBCUniversal channels are reinstated, noting that speculation would be premature.
Ongoing Negotiations with NBCUniversal
On November 25, Fubo issued a statement accusing NBCUniversal of trying to impose excessive fees for channels transitioning to a new company called Versant. Scheduled to launch in January, Versant will inherit NBCUniversal’s cable channels and other digital assets.
Fubo claims it was willing to offer Versant a one-year distribution agreement but rejected NBCUniversal’s request for a multi-year deal that could burden subscribers. Fubo criticized the arrangement as a way for NBCUniversal subscribers to subsidize unwanted channels.
