Disney has sold out all advertising for next year's Super Bowl, which will mark the first time the event is hosted by ESPN. The company had been seeking up to $10 million for 30-second spots during the broadcast. The sellout suggests advertisers remain eager to reach the huge audiences that live sports attract.
Separately, Disney is considering a free streaming product supported by advertising. The potential service would add to Disney's existing paid streaming platforms and reflects a growing emphasis on advertising as a way to make streaming profitable. A free, ad-supported tier could appeal to price-sensitive viewers while generating revenue through commercials.
The two developments highlight how Disney is leaning more heavily on advertising across its media business. The Super Bowl, one of the year's most-watched events, commands premium ad rates, and the reported asking price of up to $10 million per 30-second spot underscores its drawing power. Disney has not commented publicly on the free streaming plan or announced any further details about the Super Bowl ad sales.