Disney and YouTube TV have ended a 15-day carriage dispute, restoring access to ABC, ESPN and other networks for YouTube TV's 10 million subscribers. The multi-year agreement includes the ESPN Unlimited streaming service at no extra charge and the Disney+ and Hulu duo bundle in select YouTube offerings.
The deal resolves a standoff that had blacked out programming since mid-September, threatening to extend into a third weekend of college football. Restoration began immediately, allowing viewers to tune into Saturday's college football games and Monday Night Football's Dallas Cowboys vs. Las Vegas Raiders match.
A key point of contention had been the integration of ESPN Unlimited content. Under the new pact, the service's content will be embedded within the YouTube TV app, rather than requiring users to switch to the separate ESPN app. This addresses Disney's desire to keep control of user data while offering more flexibility.
Disney executives praised the agreement, stating it 'reflects our continued commitment to delivering exceptional entertainment and evolving with how audiences choose to watch.' YouTube TV also welcomed the deal, apologising for the disruption and thanking subscribers for their patience.
The blackout was the longest ever for Disney, highlighting the complexities of streaming-era negotiations. The deal ensures that Disney's networks are available for the remainder of the college football season and key NFL broadcasts.
