Disney & YouTube TV Reach New Deal, Restoring ESPN, ABC, and FX Channels
Disney and Alphabet, the parent company behind YouTube TV have officially resolved a two-week standoff that left millions of viewers without access to major Disney-owned networks. Both companies confirmed the new agreement on Friday.
Disney told Nexstar that all Disney channels and local stations are being restored on YouTube TV effective immediately.
“YouTube TV subscribers can now expect ABC, ESPN, FX, and other Disney-owned channels to return throughout the day,” YouTube TV shared in a post on X. “Thank you for your patience and for being part of our community.”
According to Disney, the renewed deal guarantees YouTube TV subscribers access to the full lineup of ESPN networks, Disney Channel, Freeform, FX Networks, National Geographic, and ABC — all without any additional charges. The agreement also includes access to ESPN’s new Unlimited Plan, plus the option to add the Disney+ and Hulu Bundle.
Disney Channels Pulled from YouTube TV Amid Contract Dispute
The blackout had a major impact on sports fans who were unable to watch several key live NBA, NFL, and NHL matchups since October 30, including the highly anticipated “Monday Night Football” game between the Philadelphia Eagles and Green Bay Packers.
During the dispute, YouTube TV said Disney pushed for higher fees and used blackout threats as leverage — a move YouTube argued would have raised costs for subscribers. YouTube added that Disney’s temporary content removal ultimately boosted its competing streaming services, including Hulu + Live TV and Fubo.
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Disney, however, claimed YouTube TV refused to pay fair market rates and accused the platform of “denying subscribers the content they care about most,” especially during a season packed with Top 25 college matchups and primetime sports action.
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