Starting July 21, Disney+ subscribers can begin their mornings with a fresh take on the day’s headlines. ABC News and Disney+ are launching What You Need to Know, a short-form daily news show made exclusively for the platform. Anchored by ABC News chief international correspondent James Longman and senior political correspondent Rachel Scott, the series will deliver news, entertainment, and trending topics each weekday at 6 a.m. ET.

This fast-paced format helps viewers stay informed in a matter of minutes. Each episode is available on demand for 24 hours before it refreshes with the latest content. With updates on global developments, politics, culture, and viral trends, the show keeps subscribers up to date with ease.
Trusted Voices Lead the Way
James Longman and Rachel Scott bring real-world reporting experience to the series. They’ve covered everything from international conflicts to political events in Washington.

“We’re excited to break through the noise and explain what’s going on around the world,” Longman and Scott shared in a joint statement. “Wherever the story is, we’ll bring you along.”
ABC News president Almin Karamehmedovic said the show “expands our presence on Disney+ and offers clear, accessible journalism to a broader audience.”
Disney+ Expands Its News Footprint
The new series joins existing ABC News content already on Disney+. This includes full episodes of Good Morning America, ABC World News Tonight with David Muir, Nightline, and ABC News Live Prime with Linsey Davis. Viewers can also stream live programming from ABC News Live throughout the day.
Disney+ president Alisa Bowen noted that What You Need to Know. “redefines the news experience by offering sharp, easy-to-digest updates on the most important stories.”
Mark your calendar for July 21. That’s when What You Need to Know premieres exclusively on Disney+. It’s a bold new way to stay connected and informed.

