As YouTube TV’s popularity continues to rise, the service often finds itself locked in tense negotiations with major networks — battles that could leave subscribers temporarily without their favorite channels. In recent years, the platform has faced repeated contract disputes, including close calls with NBCUniversal in 2021 and again earlier this month. Now, the streaming giant is embroiled in a new standoff — this time with Disney — raising the possibility that YouTube TV users could soon lose access to ESPN, ABC, and other Disney-owned networks.
“This is the latest example of Google exploiting its position at the expense of its own customers,” a Disney spokesperson told Variety. “We invest significantly in our content and expect our partners to pay fair rates that recognize that value. If we don’t reach a fair deal soon, YouTube TV customers will lose access to ESPN, ABC, and all our marquee programming — including the NFL, college football, NBA, and NHL seasons — and much more.”
YouTube TV counters that it has been negotiating in good faith, arguing that Disney’s proposed terms are “not economically feasible” and would force yet another price increase for subscribers. The company, which currently charges $82.99 per month, also hinted that Disney’s tough stance may be linked to its competing live TV services, including Hulu + Live TV and the soon-to-launch Fubo partnership. With the current YouTube TV–Disney deal set to expire on October 30, subscribers could soon discover whether ESPN and ABC will remain available.
History Repeats Itself
This isn’t the first time YouTube TV and Disney have clashed over carriage fees. In late 2021, negotiations between the two companies broke down, and YouTube TV dropped all Disney-owned channels — including ESPN, FX, and ABC — on December 18. The blackout lasted just one day. Faced with customer backlash, both companies quickly returned to the negotiating table, reaching a new agreement by December 19.
Given that history, it wouldn’t be surprising if the two sides once again found common ground before the deadline. For consumers, however, these recurring disputes highlight a frustrating reality: when media giants fight over money, viewers are often left caught in the middle.
For now, YouTube TV has pledged to credit subscribers $20 off their monthly bill if Disney’s channels are removed — a small consolation for viewers just hoping to keep watching their favorite sports and shows without disruption.
