YouTube TV and Disney Resolve Dispute, Restore Channels

YouTube TV and Disney have reached a new multi-year agreement, ending a two-week blackout that had left subscribers without access to Disney-owned channels, including ABC and ESPN.

The dispute, which began on October 30, centered around carriage fees—the per-subscriber rates distributors pay to carry broadcast and cable networks. The blackout affected millions of YouTube TV subscribers, disrupting access to major sports events and news coverage.

Under the new agreement, YouTube TV will carry Disney's full suite of networks, including all ESPN networks, ABC, Disney-branded channels, Freeform, FX Networks, and National Geographic. Additionally, ESPN's new direct-to-consumer service, the Unlimited Plan, will be made available at no extra cost to YouTube TV subscribers by the end of 2026.

Both companies expressed satisfaction with the resolution. YouTube TV stated that the agreement "preserves the value of our service for our subscribers and future flexibility in our offers." Disney highlighted the deal as a reflection of their commitment to delivering exceptional entertainment and evolving with audience preferences.

The resolution of this dispute ensures that YouTube TV subscribers regain access to a wide range of Disney-owned content, including live sports, news, and entertainment programming.