Hulu To Launch $9.95 Subscription Service

It has been rumored for a while now, and now it has been confirmed by the Los Angeles Times — Hulu plans to begin testing a $9.95 subscription service called Hulu Plus as soon as May 24th 2010. Of course, Hulu is not responding to requests or comment.

The  popular online video site would continue to provide free access to the five most recent episodes of popular shows from Fox, ABC, NBC and other Hulu content providers. Viewers who want access to additional older episodes would pay the $9.95 a month. It is unclear how many episodes the subscription would give viewers, but it is said to be "a more comprehensive selection."

It is also unclear if Hulu Plus members will be able to watch shows commercial free. Speaking of commercials, the Times also claims that "Ultimately, Hulu is expected to adopt the same commercial loads as network television." ugh... Are the television networks that  dead set on pushing viewers towards illegal streaming and torrents?

Honestly, I'd be willing to pay $9 a month if I could have access to an entire show's run without commercials. For example, I would love to watch the first season of Glee, as I didn't catch it when it aired on television. Right now Hulu only keeps the last few episodes, and even those have a few commercial breaks.

Discuss: How about you? Would you pay a subscription fee for an all-you-can-eat access to television shows on Hulu? Would it have to be commercial free?