YouTube TV and Disney failed to reach a new distribution agreement, resulting in the removal of Disney’s entire portfolio from the streaming platform in the US, starting this Friday (31st). The impasse leaves millions of subscribers without access to crucial channels like ESPN and ABC, with “Disney channels unavailable YouTube TV” becoming the main problem for customers of Google’s platform amid important sporting events.
The Cause of the Dispute: Pricing The heart of the disagreement, as confirmed by both companies in separate statements, is financial. YouTube TV (owned by Google) stated that Disney proposed terms that would “significantly” increase licensing fees, which would inevitably be passed on to consumers. The platform chose not to accept the increase, leading to the contract’s expiration at midnight.
What was removed? See the list The loss of content is substantial. The “blackout” affects not only the ESPN network but all of Disney’s linear channels, including:
- ESPN Networks (ESPN, ESPN2, SEC Network, etc.)
- Local ABC broadcast channels
- Entertainment channels (FX, FXX, Freeform)
- Kids’ channels (Disney Channel, Disney Junior)
- National Geographic Networks
Impact of unavailable Disney channels on YouTube TV The removal of ESPN is particularly painful for sports fans, coinciding with crucial college football and NBA games. The loss of ABC also removes access to local news and prime-time programming for many users. As mitigation, YouTube TV announced that if the situation persists, it will give a $20 credit to subscribers while the Disney channels remain unavailable.
