Disney Channels Return to YouTube TV After Content Dispute
Disney’s channels, including ESPN and ABC, have been restored to YouTube TV following a deal reached between the two companies, ending a blackout that began October 31. The agreement resolves a dispute over contract renewal terms and pricing, allowing subscribers to once again access live and on-demand programming from Disney’s networks.
The conflict stemmed from disagreements over payment rates, with Disney accusing Google of refusing to pay “fair rates” for its channels and Google claiming disney used the threat of a blackout as a negotiating tactic to raise prices for customers. Disney Entertainment co-chairpersons alan Bergman and Dana Walden, along with ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro, stated the new deal “recognizes the tremendous value of Disney’s programming and provides YouTube TV subscribers with more flexibility and choice.”
Under the terms of the new agreement,YouTube TV subscribers will receive access to select live and library programming from ESPN Unlimited at no additional cost. Google will also offer Disney+ and Hulu bundles to YouTube TV customers and introduce genre-based channel packages. YouTube TV has notified subscribers of the channel restoration and confirmed that they can still claim a previously offered $20 credit through December 9.
