Can you run CTV ads on Hulu?

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Last updated: April 8, 2026

Quick Answer: Yes, you can run CTV ads on Hulu. Hulu offers a self-service advertising platform called Hulu Ad Manager, launched in 2019, which allows advertisers to purchase and manage CTV ads directly. As of 2023, Hulu reaches over 48 million subscribers in the U.S., with its ad-supported tier accounting for approximately 70% of its user base. The platform provides targeting options based on demographics, interests, and viewing behavior, with CPMs typically ranging from $20 to $40.

Key Facts

Hulu launched its self-service CTV ad platform, Hulu Ad Manager, in 2019.
Hulu has over 48 million subscribers in the U.S. as of 2023.
Approximately 70% of Hulu's user base is on its ad-supported tier.
Hulu CTV ads offer targeting based on demographics, interests, and viewing behavior.
CPMs for Hulu CTV ads typically range from $20 to $40.

Overview

Hulu, founded in 2007 as a joint venture between NBCUniversal, Fox Entertainment, and Disney-ABC Television Group, has evolved from a free streaming service to a major subscription-based platform. Initially offering ad-supported content, Hulu introduced its ad-free tier in 2015. By 2023, Hulu had over 48 million subscribers in the U.S., with its ad-supported tier accounting for about 70% of users. The platform's shift towards CTV advertising accelerated with the launch of Hulu Ad Manager in 2019, enabling direct programmatic ad buys. This move capitalized on the growing CTV market, which saw U.S. CTV ad spending reach $25.9 billion in 2023, up from $14.4 billion in 2020. Hulu's integration with Disney's advertising ecosystem, following Disney's acquisition of full control in 2019, further enhanced its ad capabilities.

How It Works

To run CTV ads on Hulu, advertisers use Hulu Ad Manager, a self-service platform that allows direct purchasing and management of video ads. The process begins with creating an account and setting up a campaign, where advertisers define objectives such as brand awareness or conversions. Targeting options include demographics (age, gender, income), interests (e.g., sports, entertainment), and viewing behavior based on Hulu's first-party data. Ad formats are primarily 15- to 30-second video ads, with options for interactive elements like clickable overlays. Bidding operates on a CPM basis, with costs typically ranging from $20 to $40 per thousand impressions. Campaigns can be optimized in real-time, and performance is tracked through metrics like view-through rates and completion rates. Hulu also offers programmatic access via DSPs for automated buying.

Why It Matters

Running CTV ads on Hulu matters because it provides access to a large, engaged audience in the growing CTV space. With over 48 million U.S. subscribers, Hulu offers significant reach, particularly among younger demographics, with 60% of its viewers aged 18-49. CTV ads on Hulu are less prone to ad-blocking compared to desktop ads, leading to higher viewability rates—often above 90%. This effectiveness is reflected in higher engagement; for example, Hulu reports average ad completion rates of over 95%. For advertisers, this translates to better ROI, with CTV ads driving measurable outcomes like brand lift and conversions. As CTV usage rises, with 87% of U.S. households using it as of 2023, Hulu's platform is crucial for modern digital marketing strategies.