YouTube TV subscribers have lost access to all Disney-owned channels, including ABC, ESPN, Disney Channel, FX, and Nat Geo, after Google and Disney failed to reach a new content distribution agreement.
Effective immediately, YouTube TV viewers can no longer watch Disney channels such as ABC, ESPN, Disney Channel, FX, and Nat Geo. This blackout occurred after Google's pay TV platform and Disney failed to finalize a new content distribution deal. The dispute, which had been signaled to viewers through on-screen warnings, could disrupt coverage of major sports events including college football, NBA, NFL, and NHL games. YouTube TV, the U.S.'s largest internet TV provider with over 9 million subscribers, stated that Disney's move to suspend content was a negotiating tactic aimed at securing higher prices, while also benefiting Disney's own streaming services like Hulu + Live TV and Fubo. YouTube TV is offering a $20 credit to its subscribers, whose base plan costs $82.99 per month, if the Disney content remains unavailable for an extended period. Conversely, Disney accused YouTube TV of refusing to pay fair rates and leveraging Google's 'market dominance to eliminate competition and undercut industry-standard terms.' Both companies have expressed a commitment to reaching a resolution swiftly.
