Netflix Strikes Unexpected Deal with Disney+ — 17 Movies and Shows Crossing the Streaming Divide

Introduction: The Unprecedented Streaming Crossover

In a surprising move that feels a bit like the 'KPop Demon Hunters' joining the cast of 'Avengers: Doomsday,' Netflix and Disney+ have announced they are crossing the streaming divide and have inked a deal to bring a selection of Disney movies and shows to Netflix. Variety reports that Disney Entertainment and Netflix have entered into an expansive new content licensing agreement, bringing an eclectic mix of library titles and current-season TV shows to Netflix for varying periods.

What Content is Crossing Over?

While this does not mean the entire Disney+ library or every season of 'The Mandalorian' is jumping ship just yet, Disney is curating a specific selection of its movies and shows to stream on Netflix from now through early 2027. The rollout began with the first two seasons of the Disney+ original series 'Percy Jackson and the Olympians' and all five 'Ice Age' movies.

Upcoming Disney Movies Coming to Netflix

• 'Ice Age' (2002) - Streaming now
• 'Ice Age: The Meltdown' (2006) - Streaming now
• 'Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs' (2009) - Streaming now
• 'Ice Age: Continental Drift' (2012) - Streaming now
• 'Ice Age: Collision Course' (2016) - Streaming now
• 'Soul' (2020) - Streaming in 2027
• 'Elio' (2025) - Streaming in 2027
• 'Raya and the Last Dragon' (2021) - Streaming in 2027

Upcoming Disney Shows Coming to Netflix

• 'Percy Jackson and the Olympians' Seasons 1-2 - Streaming now
• 'Felicity' Seasons 1-4 - Streaming Oct. 7
• 'Will Trent' Seasons 1-4 - Streaming Nov. 3
• 'Shifting Gears' Seasons 1-2 - Streaming Dec. 1
• 'Tracker' Seasons 1-3 - Streaming Feb. 26

Additionally, completed classic shows like 'Felicity' will be followed by 'Revenge,' 'Army Wives,' 'Fresh Off the Boat,' and 'This Is Us' at a later date.

Analysis: Why Disney is Playing Nice with Netflix

In a competitive streaming landscape where monthly entertainment budgets are stretched thin, partnering with the dominant streaming giant might seem counterintuitive for Disney. However, a closer look reveals a strategic marketing play. Disney is utilizing Netflix as a promotional vehicle for ongoing franchises and upcoming seasons. For instance, releasing the first two seasons of 'Percy Jackson and the Olympians' on Netflix acts as a massive teaser right before season 3 debuts on Disney+ on November 20.

Similarly, older or standalone library titles like Pixar's 'Soul' and 'Elio' allow Disney to maximize revenue from its back catalog through lucrative licensing fees, all while keeping its core crown jewels like Marvel and Star Wars strictly on Disney+.

Conclusion

This unexpected partnership proves to be a win-win scenario. Netflix enriches its content catalog with high-profile titles, while Disney gains unmatched promotional reach and extra revenue. For streaming subscribers navigating multiple platforms, it’s a welcome development bridging the gap between streaming rivals.