Disney Hands Over Physical Media Kingdom to Sony

This is one of those strange stories we had to make sure we were reading correctly. Thankfully, we have some experts in home/physical media like DigitalBits to lean on in times like this. According to them, the Walt Disney Company has officially relinquished their vast physical media empire over to Sony Pictures Home Entertainment, who will now handle marketing and distribution of any releases going forward.

“As part of this deal, Sony will market, sell, and distribute new Disney releases plus catalog titles on physical media (4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, DVD, etc.) to consumers through retailers and distributors in the U.S. and Canada,” according to Bill Hunt.

This is kind of a big deal, as the House of Mouse has traditionally handled all of that internally. There has been some concern this shift may mean current Disney+ titles (like the various new live-action “Star Wars” series) will not be released on physical media. (It could actually mean the opposite, as now Disney doesn’t have to focus on that part, too? Just a thought.)

DigitalBits goes on to say the first Disney title Sony will be releasing via physical media will be “The First Omen” (20th Century Studios). It has a current theatrical street date of April 5th, 2024. Digital and physical release dates should be confirmed in the coming months.

On top of this news, the long-standing Disney Movie Club is shuttering.

“After 23 magical years, it’s time to say goodbye. After serving over 10 million valued Club Members, we have made the difficult decision to close the Disney Movie Club,” a post to the Club’s various social media accounts reads. “We will miss the opportunity to be part of the lives of so many Disney fans, including you, but we will be forever grateful for the time you’ve chosen to spend with us. But we’re not done yet! In the months to come, we’ll be piling on the perks to celebrate you, our loyal Member. Look for amazing offers to help you finish building your collection with movies you love — for memories that are yours to cherish forever.”

We’ll let you know what else we hear about this and other news.