Hulu, one of the leading streaming platforms in the United States, is grappling with a technical glitch that has left a portion of its user base unable to modify their subscription plans or cancel their accounts. The issue, which began surfacing earlier this week, prevents affected customers from making changes such as upgrading to live TV, downgrading plans, switching between ad-supported and ad-free tiers, or unsubscribing entirely. While not all users are impacted, those affected are expressing growing frustration as they navigate the limitations of the platform’s self-service features.
The glitch appears to affect Hulu’s account management system, specifically the interface where users typically adjust their subscription settings. Customers attempting to make changes are met with a page that jsut keeps refreshing, frozen screens, or, in some cases, no response at all.
Hulu has not provided a timeline for when the issue will be fully resolved but assures customers that their team is prioritizing a fix. For now, affected users are encouraged to reach out to Hulu’s support team via phone, email, or live chat to make any necessary changes to their accounts. The company has also promised to monitor feedback closely and provide updates as the situation evolves.
Hulu, was founded in 2007 as a joint venture between media giants NBCUniversal, Fox Entertainment, and Disney-ABC Television Group, with Providence Equity Partners as an initial investor. The idea was to create a platform to deliver on-demand television content, competing with traditional cable and emerging digital platforms. Hulu officially launched to the public in March 2008, offering a mix of current and past TV episodes, movies, and original programming.
Initially, Hulu focused on free, ad-supported content, distinguishing itself by providing next-day access to episodes from major networks like NBC, Fox, and ABC. This model attracted millions of users but faced challenges with monetization and content licensing. In 2010, Hulu introduced Hulu Plus, a subscription-based service that offered an expanded library, including full seasons of shows and access on multiple devices, marking a shift toward a hybrid free-and-paid model.
By 2011, Hulu began producing original content, starting with shows like The Morning After and later Battleground. Its first major hit, The Handmaid’s Tale (2017), earned critical acclaim and multiple Emmy Awards, establishing Hulu as a serious player in original programming. Over the years, Hulu expanded its originals slate with titles like Only Murders in the Building, The Dropout, and The Bear, appealing to diverse audiences.
Corporate ownership of Hulu evolved significantly. In 2019, Disney gained full control after acquiring Fox’s stake and buying out Comcast’s share, integrating Hulu into its streaming portfolio alongside Disney+ and ESPN+. This shift allowed Hulu to focus on adult-oriented content, complementing Disney+’s family-friendly offerings. That same year, Hulu launched its live TV streaming service, Hulu + Live TV, entering the competitive live-streaming market.
Hulu’s growth has been steady, reaching over 50 million subscribers by 2024, driven by its vast library, exclusive content, and bundle options with Disney+ and ESPN+. Despite facing challenges like rising subscription costs and occasional technical glitches, Hulu remains a cornerstone of the streaming industry, known for its robust on-demand catalog and live TV capabilities.
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