Over the weekend, all Disney-owned channels disappeared from YouTube TV amid an ongoing contract dispute between the two media giants. In one move, the streaming platform lost ESPN, ABC, and several other major networks. Subscribers are understandably upset—especially as college football season hits its peak. For many, ESPN was the main reason to sign up for YouTube TV, and the channel’s college football coverage featured heavily in the service’s advertising this year.
At the moment, there’s no clear sign of when Disney and YouTube will mend fences. While carriage disputes are nothing new, YouTube TV historically strikes last-minute deals to avoid prolonged blackouts. In 2021, a similar standoff with Disney ended less than a day after channels were pulled. This time, however, the blackout has stretched into its fifth day without any indication of meaningful progress.
Disney’s Election Day Request
According to Variety, Disney asked Google earlier this week to temporarily reinstate ABC for 24 hours on November 4th so viewers could access election coverage. “Despite the impasse that led to the current blackout, we have asked YouTube TV to restore ABC for Election Day so subscribers have access to the information they rely on,” a Disney spokesperson said. “We believe in putting the public interest first and hope YouTube TV will take this small step while we continue working toward a fair agreement.”
YouTube TV declined. The company said restoring ABC for just one day would only create confusion among subscribers who would see the channel come and go without a resolution. The platform also pointed out that audiences have plenty of alternative ways to follow election coverage, including the ABC News channel on YouTube.
Adding a bit of sting, Google noted: “On the last two U.S. election days, the vast majority of tuned-in YouTube TV subscribers chose not to watch ABC.” Google reportedly countered by suggesting Disney allow YouTube TV to temporarily restore both ABC and ESPN while negotiations continue—a proposal Disney rejected.
The Cost Question
The timing couldn’t be worse for subscribers already frustrated with YouTube TV’s rising prices. Once celebrated as the affordable alternative to cable, the service has steadily climbed in cost since launching in 2017 at $35 per month. Today, at $82.99 per month, YouTube TV in many markets is actually more expensive than several traditional cable bundles.
That steady rise has prompted a fair question: is YouTube TV still worth it? With established competitors like Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, and Fubo offering similar packages, subscribers have more options than ever.
As for the current stalemate, it’s unclear which side is being more stubborn. Disney may be seeking higher carriage fees to reflect YouTube TV’s growing subscriber base. Meanwhile, YouTube TV is likely resisting further price hikes, mindful that it just raised rates by 14% less than a year ago. For now, millions of viewers are left caught in the middle—waiting to see who blinks first.
