Wanted: Murdoch, the Hulu killer.

Most people I know don't like Rupert Murdoch, or his shady sidekicks at News Corp. (Watch this A Bit of Fry & Laurie sketch if you haven't already... it's one of my faves.) And now, with news of the probability of Hulu becoming a fee-based site, I like him even less.

Despite the convenience of watching shows and movies whenever (and wherever) I'd like, Hulu is not completely free, just as broadcast television is not free. Sitting through commercials is my payment for such a convenience. Do they think I enjoy sitting on the edge of my seat through an episode of House (oh- there's Hugh Laurie again... LOVE) only to be interrupted by a Tostitos commercial warning me that if I "don't use my baby factory, it may shut down?" Well, I don't. I don't like it one bit.

However, as annoying as that may be, I take that emotional punch in the baby maker because I love my television shows, and when my father is undeniably cruel enough to turn off my DVR recordings of those shows (grrrr), I turn to Hulu. (PLEASE don't make fun of me for living with my parents...)

But would I pay for this?

NO!

I can find sites all over the Interwebs that allow me to watch my shows. I just LIKE to use Hulu if I can. "Like" being the key word. I don't need Hulu to see my shows and, therefore, I will never pay for a Hulu subscription.

News Corp. can't expect the general public to just roll over to a fee-based plan when they are accustomed to it being "free." I know Murdoch keeps trying to find ways to rake in the cash, but he needs to give it up. Fees will lead to the downfall of Hulu... mark my words.

Hulu has tried so hard to get people to their site with their SuperBowl commercial and other television spots, and these talked about the benefits of the FREE site. Now, once they've received more viewers, News Corp. plans to alienate them (and yes, I used the word "alienate" to be punny) by saying, "Oh- we were just kidding about that whole 'free' thing..."

Bad plan.

Hulu just needs to focus on selling itself as a viable media vehicle to advertising agencies so they have enough spots to fill the gaps.

Thoughts?