Is “Futurama” on Disney+? Your Guide to Streaming Bender and the Crew

Here’s the short answer: No, “Futurama” is not currently available on Disney+ in the United States. While Disney owns the show through its acquisition of 20th Century Fox (now 20th Century Television), the streaming rights are a bit more complicated. Let’s delve into where you can find Fry, Leela, and Bender’s hilarious adventures, and why Disney+’s lineup differs from other streaming platforms.

Where Can You Watch “Futurama”? The Streaming Galaxy Explained

The streaming rights landscape can feel like navigating the vastness of space without a map. While Disney+ is not currently the home for “Futurama” in the US, fear not, there are several other planets in the streaming solar system where you can catch your favorite episodes:

• Hulu: This is the primary streaming home for “Futurama” in the United States. All seasons, including the original run and the revival seasons, are generally available on Hulu.

• Other Streaming Services: Depending on your region, “Futurama” may also be available on other streaming services. Check local listings for availability.

• Digital Purchase: You can purchase individual episodes or entire seasons of “Futurama” from digital retailers like Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, Google Play, and Vudu. This gives you permanent access to the show, even if it leaves streaming services.

• DVD and Blu-ray: For the true collectors out there, “Futurama” is, of course, available on DVD and Blu-ray. This option offers the highest quality viewing experience and includes bonus features that aren’t always available on streaming.

The Disney Ownership Factor: Why Isn’t It on Disney+?

The confusing part for many comes down to Disney’s ownership. Since Disney acquired 20th Century Fox, they technically own “Futurama.” So why isn’t it on Disney+? The answer lies in pre-existing licensing agreements and strategic content distribution decisions.

• Pre-Existing Deals: Hulu likely had pre-existing deals for “Futurama” that were in place before the Disney acquisition. These deals often have specific terms and expiration dates, preventing Disney from immediately moving the show to Disney+.

• Target Audience and Content Strategy: Disney+ is primarily positioned as a family-friendly streaming service. While “Futurama” has a dedicated following, its humor can sometimes be considered more adult-oriented than the typical Disney+ fare. Keeping it on Hulu, which caters to a broader audience, might be a strategic decision to maintain the distinct brand identities of each streaming platform.

• Hulu as a General Entertainment Hub: Disney uses Hulu as a hub for content that doesn’t quite fit the Disney+ mold. Shows like “Futurama,” “Family Guy,” and other adult-oriented animated series are better suited for Hulu’s demographic.

Navigating the “Futurama” Streaming Landscape: FAQs

Here are 12 frequently asked questions to further clarify the “Futurama” streaming situation:

1. Will “Futurama” ever be on Disney+ in the US? While it’s impossible to say for sure, it’s unlikely in the near future. The existing licensing agreements and the overall content strategy suggest that “Futurama” will remain on Hulu for the foreseeable future. However, streaming rights are constantly evolving, so it’s always possible that things could change.

2. Is “Futurama” on Disney+ in other countries? Streaming availability varies by country. It’s possible that “Futurama” might be available on Disney+ in some international markets, but this is not the case in the United States. Always check your local Disney+ listings.

3. What about the new “Futurama” revival seasons? Are they on Disney+? No, the revival seasons, including those that premiered on Hulu, are not on Disney+ in the US. They are primarily available on Hulu.

4. Is there a way to watch “Futurama” on Disney+ using a VPN? Using a VPN to access content from other regions is a violation of most streaming services’ terms of service and is generally discouraged. It’s best to access content through legitimate channels in your region.

5. If I subscribe to Disney+, do I automatically get Hulu? No, Disney+ and Hulu are separate streaming services, and a subscription to one does not automatically grant you access to the other. However, Disney does offer bundle deals that include Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+, which can be a cost-effective option if you want access to all three services.

6. Are there any “Futurama” shorts or specials on Disney+? As of now, there are no “Futurama” shorts or specials available on Disney+ in the US.

7. Why did “Futurama” get revived on Hulu? The revival of “Futurama” on Hulu was likely due to a combination of factors, including the show’s continued popularity, the availability of the original cast and crew, and Hulu’s desire to expand its adult animation offerings.

8. Is it worth getting Hulu just to watch “Futurama”? That depends on your viewing habits and preferences. If you’re a huge “Futurama” fan and also enjoy other adult animated shows or general entertainment content, then a Hulu subscription might be worth it. However, if “Futurama” is the only show you’re interested in, you might consider purchasing individual episodes or seasons from digital retailers.

9. Will Disney ever create new “Futurama” content specifically for Disney+? It’s unlikely, given the established brand identity of Disney+. While anything is possible, it’s more probable that any future “Futurama” content would be developed for Hulu or another platform that caters to a broader audience.

10. Can I watch “Futurama” for free anywhere? It’s important to be cautious of illegal streaming sites that offer “Futurama” for free. These sites often contain malware and can expose you to legal risks. It’s always best to watch content through legitimate streaming services or digital retailers.

11. What is the best way to stay updated on “Futurama” streaming availability? The best way to stay updated is to follow official announcements from Disney, Hulu, and other streaming services. You can also check reliable entertainment news websites and blogs.

12. Who owns the rights to “Futurama” music? The rights to the “Futurama” music are complex and involve various parties, including composers, publishers, and 20th Century Television (now owned by Disney). Licensing music for use in other projects requires navigating these complex rights agreements.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Panic! You Can Still Watch “Futurama”

While “Futurama” might not be available on Disney+ in the United States, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy the show. Hulu remains the primary streaming home, and you can always purchase episodes or seasons digitally. So, grab your Slurm, settle in, and get ready for some intergalactic laughs! The future (of streaming “Futurama”) is still bright!