Disney+ and Hulu Expand Video Podcast Slate with Six iHeartMedia Titles

Key points

• Disney+ and Hulu announced a partnership with iHeartMedia to stream six video podcast titles, including 'Hey Jonas!', 'Pod Meets World', and 'Desperately Devoted'.
• The deal begins with 'Hey Jonas!' debuting on August 14, timed to coincide with the premiere of 'Camp Rock 3' and live episodes from the D23 fan event.
• Additional titles such as 'Fake Doctors, Real Friends with Zach and Donald' and 'Thanks Dad with Ego Nwodim' will stream on Hulu later in 2026.
• Disney already hosts companion and rewatch podcasts for shows like 'American Idol' and 'The Shards', marking this as a significant expansion of its podcast library.
• iHeartMedia CEO Bob Pittman noted that Disney's fan communities make it an ideal partner for expanding the reach of video podcasts.

Background

This move follows Disney's recent integration of live events like Lollapalooza 2026 onto its streaming platforms, signaling a broader push to diversify content beyond traditional scripted programming. The company has previously launched companion podcasts for series such as 'Paradise' and 'Dancing with the Stars', indicating a sustained effort to leverage audio and video hybrid formats to retain subscribers.

How outlets are covering it

The Hollywood Reporter and Deadline emphasize the strategic expansion of Disney's podcast library, highlighting the addition of six new titles to an existing roster that includes rewatch series. Variety focuses on the synergy between the Jonas Brothers' podcast and the 'Camp Rock 3' premiere, noting the cross-promotional potential. Disney's press release frames the deal as a way to deepen fan engagement through 'richer streaming experiences,' while iHeartMedia positions the partnership as a method to reach passionate fan communities across multiple platforms.

Why it matters

The integration of video podcasts into major streaming platforms reflects a broader industry trend toward hybrid content formats. For Disney, this strategy aims to increase subscriber engagement and retention by offering diverse, personality-driven content that complements its scripted and unscripted offerings. For iHeartMedia, it provides a new distribution channel for its audio-first properties, potentially reaching audiences who prefer visual media.

What to watch

Disney+ and Hulu are expected to continue expanding their podcast libraries with additional licensed and companion titles. The success of these video podcasts may influence future content acquisitions and original productions, as well as the pricing and bundling strategies for Disney's streaming services.