Disney+ teases vertical video content pivot, ups Zasowski to president of platform distribution

Disney is the latest US media giant to lean into the trend for mobile-first shortform content by rolling out a new vertical video experience on streamer Disney+ later this year.

Jimmy Zasowski

Launched this week at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Disney execs revealed that it will feature content from ESPN sports, ABC News and entertainment programming from Hulu Plus Live.

Erin Teague, exec VP of product management, said: “Over the next year, we’re introducing vertical video experiences on Disney+. We’re thinking about mobile-first experiences. We know that mobile is an incredible opportunity to turn Disney+ into a true daily destination for fans, so that’s exactly what we’re going to do.”

The strategy follows Disney’s move into sports-skewing vertical video content with the ESPN Verts experience, launched last August.

Vertical video and microdramas are on-trend in Hollywood right now, with Fox Entertainment recently acquiring an equity stake in Holywater, the firm behind platforms including microdrama app My Drama.

In other Disney news, company veteran Jimmy Zasowski has been upped to the role of president, platform distribution, Disney Entertainment and ESPN.

His remit includes overseeing the distribution and monetisation of Disney+, Hulu and ESPN, the Mouse House’s linear networks and TV programming across home entertainment and content licensing. He also takes responsibility for all distribution-related business operations.

Zasowski will report to Disney Entertainment co-chairs Alan Bergman and Dana Walden and ESPN chair Jimmy Pitaro.

He has been elevated from his previous position of exec VP of platform distribution strategy, where he was responsible for growing Disney’s footprint through strategic planning and deal analysis.

Bergman, Walden and Pitaro said: “Jimmy is a skilled strategist, excellent dealmaker and a thoughtful, collaborative leader who will advance the company’s distribution efforts to the next level.

“We have full confidence in his ability to lead this global organisation, build on the strength of the team and drive results as consumer viewing habits and the media landscape continue to evolve.”