Disney Turns Fanfest Into a Streaming Showcase as Battle Begins

Walt Disney Co. is turning the D23 Expo, the biennial fan conclave in Anaheim, California, into a big push for its new streaming services. The three-day event, which opens Friday, will feature more than 20 panels, sneak peeks or presentations tied to new online TV shows and movies. It’s the first time streaming services have gotten the spotlight. Three services -- Hulu, ESPN+ and Disney+ -- will be showcased in a special pavilion on the floor of the city’s convention center, where guests can test the new apps or see costumes from related shows. Stars including Jeff Goldblum, who’s hosting a science program on Disney+, and Peyton Manning, who’s quarterbacking a football documentary series on ESPN+, will make appearances. Expo attendees will be the first customers allowed to sign up for Disney+, which launches Nov. 12, and will be offered a discount.