Back in 2017 when Hulu first ventured into the live TV streaming space, the concept of ditching traditional cable for internet-based services was still new. But strong demand from cord-cutters has fueled explosive growth, with Hulu Live TV emerging as a top choice for its compelling mix of news, entertainment, and sports channels plus on-demand content.
Where is Hulu Live TV heading next? What can viewers expect from their channel lineup, features, and pricing in 2024? As a veteran streaming analyst, I‘ll map out what the service has achieved so far and what lies ahead.
The Rise of Live TV Streaming
First, some perspective on the streaming TV revolution that made services like Hulu Live TV possible in just a few short years:
2017 – Just 3 million U.S. households subscribed to live TV streaming
2022 – Over 30 million households use YouTube TV, Hulu, DirecTV Stream and others
2024 – Projected to top 50 million as shift from cable/satellite accelerates
As consumer demand has grown, streaming providers have expanded channel offerings. Hulu Live TV stood at under 50 channels in 2017 but now tops 65+.
Hulu Live TV Channel Timeline
Let‘s look back at the key channel milestones for Hulu Live TV and the events that shaped its offerings:
- 2017 Launch – Headlined by live feeds from ABC, CBS, NBC and Fox plus a basic channel lineup reminiscent of old school cable
- 2018 – Rapid expansion into add-on channels and signing Turner Networks (TNT, TBS, CNN)
- 2019 – Integration of Disney/ESPN networks after Disney gains full control
- 2020 – Build out of regional sports networks and launch of Spanish language add-on
- 2021 – Debut of Viacom channels (MTV, Nickelodeon, Comedy Central)
- 2022 – Inked deals for 14 Tegna local affiliates, continued expansion of local channel reach
Based on the trajectory so far, 2024 and beyond is likely to entail:
- Further build-out of local affiliates – targeting over 95% household reach
- Addition of sought-after entertainment networks still missing
- Expanded niche add-ons for sports, movies, international
- Improved streaming quality and mobility
Next let‘s dive into the details across channel categories…
Local Channels & National News – 2024 and Beyond
As a streaming-only TV provider, signing distribution deals with local broadcast affiliates was a tall task for Hulu in the early days. But 2024 expectations are strong, with 94% of U.S. households likely to have access to their ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox local feeds via Hulu Live TV based on recently inked deals.
That‘s near parity with long-established providers like DIRECTV, setting the stage for further subscriber growth. And local channel availability will remain a key advantage over YouTube TV and Sling TV for many areas.
On the national news front, outlets like MSNBC, Fox News, CNN, CNBC and more ensure wide access to live breaking coverage in election years and more.
Hulu Live TV Sports Channels – What‘s to Come
ESPN became the cornerstone of Hulu Live TV’s sports lineup early on. By 2024, anticipate 30+ sports networks spanning:
- ESPN suite (ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, SEC Network, ACC Network etc)
- NFL Network, MLB Network, NBA TV, NHL Network
- CBS Sports Network, NBC Sports Network, Golf Channel
- Fox Sports regional networks
- Stadium network for college sports
- Tennis Channel, TVG horse racing
I forecast the addition of Pac-12 regional networks by 2024 as Hulu bolsters college sports coverage. Expect streaming quality and reliability to improve for faster paced live games as technology enhances.
| Year | Sports Channels |
|---|---|
| 2017 Launch | 14 channels |
| 2022 | 30+ channels |
| Projected 2024 | 35+ sports channels |
Hulu Live TV sports channel growth projections
What Entertainment Channels Will Hulu Add by 2024?
Hulu Live TV first focused on news and sports but has steadily expanded entertainment options from networks like Discovery, Viacom, A+E in recent years. But a few notable gaps remain in their channel lineup versus YouTube TV.
For 2024, analysts predict Hulu finally adds the following entertainment channels:
- BBC America: wildly popular for award-winning shows like Doctor Who, Killing Eve, Planet Earth
- IFC: iconic network airing beloved comedies and independent films
- Sundance TV: critically acclaimed original dramas and true crime docs
These would all provide incremental entertainment value on top of Hulu Live TV‘s established lineup of heavy hitters like AMC, HGTV, MTV, TBS. Beefing up niche entertainment networks while retaining market-leading channel variety will be the priority through 2024.
Hulu Live TV Add-ons Get More Niche in 2024
Already home to premium add-ons like HBO Max and Spanish language programming, anticipate Hulu‘s channel add-on lineup becoming more specialized:
- AMC Premiere – commercial free AMC shows
- Hallmark Movies & More – 24/7 hallmark films
- Motortrend Plus – Projects covering classic cars and racing
- Horse Racing Pass – Access every track nationwide
Add-ons will offer greater flexibility for audiences interested in doubling down on a particular entertainment niche or genre.
Pricing Changes Through 2024
With streaming TV competition increasing, how will Hulu Live TV price their service in coming years? Historical data provides clues:
| Year | Base Package Price | Annual Increase |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $44.99/month | – |
| 2020 | $54.99/month | +22% |
| 2021 | $64.99/month | +18% |
| 2022 | $69.99/month | +7% |
| Estimated 2024 | $79.99/month | +14% |
- After large jumps coinciding with adding channels, growth slowed to 7% for 2022
- Expect pricing settles to between 10-15% annual increases through 2024
- Accounting for rising programming costs but remain affordable
Competitors like YouTube TV and DIRECTV Stream figure to see similar price hikes based on inflation and content licensing fees. While not cheap, Hulu Live TV provides fair value compared to alternatives.
Final Thoughts on Hulu Live TV in 2024 and Beyond
Since jumping into the market in 2017, Hulu’s live TV service has matured from a sparse cable replacement to a comprehensive programming option stacked with 75+ channels spanning news, sports, entertainment and more.
While pricing moves upwards of $80/month, viewers can expect enhanced streaming quality, expanded niche add-ons, and near ubiquitous local channel availability by 2024 and beyond. Combined with the Hulu on demand library and Disney+/ESPN+ bundles, Hulu Live TV retains appeal vs. the competition heading into the future.
