Dana Walden on Juggling Disney’s Linear and Streaming Assets

Disney has successfully found a balance in distributing its linear and streaming TV assets, according to Dana Walden, co-chair of Disney Entertainment. During a recent Q&A session with Ken Ziffren at the UCLA Entertainment Symposium, Walden discussed the company’s strategy of leveraging its legacy linear channels – Nat Geo, FX, Freeform, ABC, and Disney Channel – to fuel content for streaming platforms Disney+ and Hulu.

Walden emphasized that Disney has no plans to divest its linear cable channels, unlike some of its competitors. The company sees value in maintaining these channels as they still generate significant cash flow and profit. The key for Disney is to create content that appeals to both live linear platforms and on-demand streaming services.

The programming from Disney’s linear channels is seamlessly integrated into its streaming strategy. Walden highlighted that there is minimal audience overlap between the two platforms, allowing Disney to maximize its production and marketing efforts. This approach ensures that content reaches a wide range of viewers across different platforms.

In addition to its national reach, Disney also leverages its local ABC affiliates in major markets like New York and Los Angeles. These stations play a crucial role in promoting Disney’s various offerings, from theme parks to films. Despite the overall decline in linear TV, these stations remain highly profitable and serve as important touchpoints for the company.

During the Q&A, Walden shared insights from her time at 20th Century Fox Television and discussed the importance of creating high-quality content that stands the test of time. She also highlighted Disney’s recent carriage agreement with Charter Communications, which saw the restoration of linear distribution for certain channels on Charter’s lineup.

Overall, Disney’s distribution strategy revolves around maximizing the potential of its content across linear and streaming platforms. By leveraging its legacy channels and local affiliates, the company is able to reach a diverse audience and drive engagement with its various offerings. Disney’s ability to adapt to the changing TV landscape while maintaining a focus on quality content sets it apart in the industry.