YouTube TV subscribers have lost access to Disney channels such as ABC and ESPN due to a failed content distribution agreement. Other channels like the Disney Channel, FX, and Nat Geo are also no longer available on Google’s pay TV platform. The dispute arose when Disney decided to suspend its content following unsuccessful negotiations.
The absence of these channels may affect the coverage of upcoming college football games, as well as NBA, NFL, and NHL games. YouTube TV, the leading internet TV provider in the U.S. with over nine million subscribers, is facing backlash from viewers who have been alerted about the situation through on-screen notifications.
YouTube accused Disney of using a blackout threat as a bargaining tactic to push for higher subscription fees. Disney’s decision to remove its content is seen as a strategy to promote its own streaming services like Hulu + Live TV and Fubo. YouTube expressed disappointment over the situation and urged Disney to engage in constructive dialogue for a fair resolution.
In response to the ongoing blackout, YouTube TV has promised subscribers a $20 credit if Disney channels remain unavailable for an extended period. The base subscription cost for YouTube TV is $82.99 per month. Disney, on the other hand, argued that YouTube TV is not offering fair compensation for its channels and accused Google of leveraging its market dominance to stifle competition.
With both parties expressing willingness to reach a swift resolution, the future availability of Disney channels on YouTube TV remains uncertain as negotiations continue.