Disney Channels Go Dark on YouTube TV in Major Carriage Dispute, ESPN and ABC Pulled

Disney has pulled its channels from YouTube TV. The blackout happened at midnight ET after failed contract talks. This affects millions of subscribers.

Popular channels like ESPN, ABC, and Disney Channel are now unavailable. According to Reuters, both companies had warned customers this might happen. The dispute centers on carriage fees.

Subscribers Face Sports Blackout and Potential Credits

The loss of ESPN is a major blow for sports fans. Key games for the NFL, NBA, and college football are now inaccessible. This impacts weekend viewing schedules significantly.

YouTube TV has announced a temporary price reduction. Subscribers will see a $15 drop in their monthly bill. This reflects the value of the lost Disney-owned channels.

Both companies are blaming each other for the blackout. A Disney spokesperson accused Google of refusing to pay fair rates. A YouTube TV spokesperson claimed Disney is forcing price hikes.

Broader Impact on the Streaming Television Market

This conflict highlights the ongoing power struggles in the streaming TV industry. Content creators and distributors are clashing over costs. Consumers are often caught in the middle.

Disney itself is a major player in the live TV streaming market. It owns a controlling stake in Hulu + Live TV. This creates a complex competitive landscape.

The outcome of this dispute could set a new industry standard. Other providers are watching the negotiations closely. A prolonged blackout may push subscribers to seek alternatives.

The ongoing Disney-YouTube TV blackout leaves a significant content void for subscribers. A swift resolution is needed to restore essential sports and entertainment programming.

Thought you’d like to know

Which Disney-owned channels are affected by the blackout?

The blackout includes ESPN, ABC, FX, National Geographic, and the Disney Channel. These channels are no longer accessible on the YouTube TV platform. This covers a wide range of sports and entertainment.

Is YouTube TV offering subscribers a discount?

Yes, YouTube TV is reducing bills by $15 per month. This credit applies while the Disney channels remain unavailable. The regular price will resume if a deal is struck.

What are the main reasons for this dispute?

The core issue is the cost YouTube TV pays to carry Disney’s channels. Disney wants higher carriage fees. YouTube TV argues this would unfairly increase customer prices.

How can I watch ESPN and ABC without YouTube TV?

You can access these channels through alternatives like Hulu + Live TV, FuboTV, or traditional cable. Some local ABC stations may also be available with a digital antenna.

Have Disney and YouTube TV had disputes before?

This is their most significant public carriage dispute. Previous negotiations with other providers like Fox and NBCUniversal were resolved without a blackout.

Trusted Sources

Associated Press, Reuters, BBC