Disney and YouTube TV have failed to reach a new distribution agreement ahead of their deadline. The two companies were unable to finalize a new agreement before the October 31 deadline, leading to a blackout of major networks. This has left millions of subscribers uncertain about the future of their favorite shows and live sports broadcasts on YouTube TV.
When and why are ESPN and other Disney channels leaving YouTube TV?
Disney-owned channels are set to leave YouTube TV after both companies failed to reach a new agreement before the October 31 deadline, leaving millions of viewers without access to some of the most popular entertainment and sports networks. Beginning October 31 at 12 a.m. ET (or 9 p.m. PT on October 30), subscribers will lose access to popular channels including Disney Channel, ABC, FX, ESPN, Freeform, and National Geographic.
In a statement, a Disney spokesperson expressed disappointment over the situation, claiming that YouTube TV refused to “pay fair rates” for its programming. The company said that it decided to pull its channels because YouTube TV refused to agree to standard industry terms.
They stated, “With a $3 trillion market cap, Google is using its market dominance to eliminate competition and undercut the industry-standard terms we’ve successfully negotiated with every other distributor. We know how frustrating this is for YouTube TV subscribers and remain committed to working toward a resolution as quickly as possible.” (via The Hollywood Reporter)
YouTube TV pushed back strongly, claiming Disney was using the “threat of a blackout” to pressure the platform into agreeing to higher fees. In a statement, they said, “They’re now following through on that threat, suspending their content on YouTube TV.” The company added that Disney’s decision “harms our subscribers while benefiting their own live TV products, including Hulu + Live TV and Fubo.”
To address customer concerns, YouTube TV has announced a $20 monthly credit if the dispute continues for an extended period. As negotiations remain stalled, affected subscribers will lose access to a lineup that includes ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, FX, FXX, Freeform, Nat Geo, Disney Junior, and other related networks.
Originally reported by Disheeta Maheshwari on ComingSoon.
