YouTube TV has removed Disney-owned networks including ABC, ESPN, FX, and Disney Channel from its platform after failing to reach a new carriage agreement with Disney. The blackout began shortly before midnight ET on October 31, following a breakdown in negotiations over pricing and distribution terms. YouTube TV, which has over 10 million subscribers, said it would offer a one-time $20 credit if the channels remain unavailable for an extended period. Disney, meanwhile, accused Google of refusing to pay market rates and using its dominance to undercut industry standards.
The dispute affects live sports, local news, and children’s programming across the U.S.
YouTube TV dropped Disney-owned networks on October 31, 2025, after the two sides failed to agree on a new carriage deal. The blackout affects ABC, ESPN, FX, Freeform, and more, impacting millions of subscribers across the United States. The dispute centers on pricing, with Disney seeking rate increases and YouTube TV resisting. Both companies issued public statements blaming each other for the breakdown. The removal includes live channels and DVR recordings, with subscribers losing access to NFL, NBA, college football, and local ABC stations.
Networks Affected and Subscriber Impact
- Networks Removed:
- ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPNews
- FX, FXX, FXM, Freeform
- Disney Channel, Disney Junior, Disney XD
- SEC Network, ACC Network, Nat Geo, Nat Geo Wild
- ABC News Live, Localish
- Spanish Plan: ESPN Deportes, Baby TV Español, Nat Geo Mundo
- YouTube TV Base Plan: $82.99/month
- Subscriber Credit: $20 one-time credit if blackout continues
- DVR Impact: All recordings from affected networks removed
- Subscriber Reach:
- YouTube TV: ~10 million
- Hulu + Live TV + Fubo (Disney): ~6 million
Quotes and Reactions
YouTube TV spokesperson:
“Disney is suspending their content on YouTube TV. This decision directly harms our subscribers.”
Disney spokesperson:
“Google is using its market dominance to eliminate competition and undercut industry-standard terms.”
Social media reactions:
“Lost ESPN before midnight. No warning. This is unacceptable.”
Industry analysts expect subscriber frustration to escalate if the blackout persists through the weekend’s sports schedule.
Market Disruption and Viewer Fallout
The blackout disrupts access to high-demand content, especially live sports and local news. ESPN’s absence affects NFL, NBA, and college football coverage, with 13 of the top 25 college teams playing this weekend. The timing also coincides with Disney’s recent merger of Hulu + Live TV and Fubo, raising competitive tensions. Google’s refusal to meet Disney’s pricing demands reflects broader industry shifts toward cost control and bundling flexibility. The dispute may accelerate cord-cutting or push users toward alternate platforms.
The loss of Disney content could reshape subscriber loyalty and market share in the streaming TV space.
What’s Next: Negotiation Timeline and Viewer Options
- Negotiation Status: No resolution timeline confirmed
- Subscriber Options:
- Switch to Hulu + Live TV or Fubo
- Monitor YouTube TV for updates
- Claim $20 credit if eligible
- Legal Background:
- Disney recently settled lawsuit with YouTube over exec Justin Connolly
- Connolly now serves as VP of global media at YouTube
- Historical Context:
- Similar blackouts occurred with DirecTV (2024), Charter (2023), and Google (2021)
Subscribers are advised to check YouTube TV’s help center for credit eligibility and alternative viewing options.
