Disney to close 18 channels in Asia as streaming focus expands

Disney is closing 18 linear networks in Asia as it focuses its attention on nascent streamer Disney+.

Fox, Fox Crime, Fox Life and FX will all be shuttered in Southeast Asia and Hong Kong in October, less than three years since the Mouse House acquired them through its purchase of 21st Century Fox.

Kids networks Disney Junior and Disney Channel are also being cut, according to local reports, along with Nat Geo People and SCM Legend. Fox Action Movies, Fox Family Movies, Fox Movies and Star Movies China are also being disbanded, along with five sports channels.

It means only four channels will remain: Nat Geo Wild, Nat Geo, Star Chinese Channel and Star Chinese Movies.

The move follows similar decisions made across Europe, including in the UK where the media giant pulled its content back from channels on Sky last year in readiness for the launch of Disney+. https://tbivision.com/2020/06/25/disney-becomes-exclusive-disney-channels-home-in-uk-as-sky-virgin-deal-ends/

The streamer has already launched in various countries across Asia, including Indonesia – where it is known as Disney+ Hotstar – and Singapore. Further roll-outs are planned for later this year.