The Walt Disney Company will now take full ownership of the streaming platform Hulu, after agreeing to pay nearly $439 million to Comcast’s NBCUniversal for its remaining stake. The move officially ends a years-long appraisal process and solidifies Disney’s control over one of the most significant platforms in the streaming entertainment space.

According to an Associated Press report, Disney disclosed the final figure—$438.7 million—in a regulatory filing on Monday. This payment follows Disney’s November 2023 announcement that it was acquiring Comcast’s 33 percent stake in Hulu for at least $8.6 billion. That initial estimate was based on Hulu’s guaranteed floor value of $27.5 billion, though the final amount reflects the resolution of differing valuations provided by separate appraisers.

Disney has been operating Hulu since 2019, when Comcast effectively stepped back from management and handed over operational control to Disney, becoming a silent partner. Hulu itself dates back to 2007, created as a collaborative streaming service by major entertainment conglomerates looking to offer their TV content online. Disney entered the picture in 2009, bringing titles from ABC, ESPN, and the Disney Channel. A decade later, Disney acquired a majority stake through its purchase of 21st Century Fox, setting the stage for full ownership.

In the appraisal process, Disney’s chosen appraiser arrived at a valuation below the minimum floor value, while NBCUniversal’s appraiser suggested a figure well above it. The appointment of a third, neutral appraiser ultimately resulted in the final amount of $438.7 million.

“This has been a long time coming, and we’re pleased that it’s finally resolved,” said Disney CEO Bob Iger in a statement. “We have had a productive partnership with NBCUniversal, and we wish them the best of luck. Completing the Hulu acquisition paves the way for a deeper and more seamless integration of Hulu’s general entertainment content with Disney+ and, soon, with ESPN’s direct-to-consumer product, providing an unrivaled value proposition for consumers.”

The transaction is expected to close by July 24. Disney has also confirmed that the acquisition will not affect its fiscal 2025 adjusted earnings forecast. The company’s stock saw a slight uptick in trading following the news on Tuesday morning.

With full ownership, Disney now gains greater flexibility in integrating Hulu’s offerings with its broader direct-to-consumer strategy, which includes Disney+ and ESPN’s upcoming standalone platform. Industry analysts see this as a crucial step toward streamlining content, reducing redundancies, and offering bundled services to better compete in the crowded streaming market.