YouTube TV Subscribers Lose Access to Disney-Owned Channels Amid Contract Dispute

YouTube TV subscribers have lost access to Disney-owned channels, including ESPN and ABC, after the two companies failed to reach a new agreement on programming fees. The previous contract expired at midnight on Friday, leading to the removal of these channels from the streaming platform.

In a statement, YouTube TV expressed disappointment over the breakdown in negotiations, stating that despite good faith efforts, they were unable to secure a fair deal. The company assured subscribers that discussions with Disney would continue to restore the channels.

Disney responded by expressing readiness to reach an equitable agreement to minimize inconvenience to viewers. The company emphasized its commitment to restoring its networks on YouTube TV as quickly as possible.

As a result of the channel removals, YouTube TV has reduced its monthly subscription fee by $15, bringing the cost down to $50. Subscribers who were charged the higher rate in December will receive a $15 credit on their next bill.

The affected channels include ABC, ABC News Live, Disney Channel, Disney Junior, Disney XD, Freeform, FX, FXX, FXM, National Geographic, National Geographic Wild, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN3 (via authentication to the ESPN app), ESPNU, ESPNEWS, SEC Network, and ACC Network.

Subscribers seeking alternative access to these channels are advised to consider other streaming services that carry Disney-owned networks.