A major dispute over licensing fees has resulted in a blackout of Disney-owned television channels on YouTube TV, leaving around 10 million users without access to major networks such as ESPN, ABC, Disney Channel, and National Geographic.
The breakdown occurred late Thursday night after failed negotiations between Google, the parent company of YouTube TV, and Disney, which controls some of the most-watched sports and entertainment content in the United States. Both sides have issued statements blaming the other for the collapse of the deal.
Disney argues that YouTube is refusing to agree to pricing that aligns with what other cable and streaming distributors already pay for similar content. The company maintains that it has been consistent in deal structures across the industry and believes YouTube TV should meet that benchmark.
Google, on the other hand, says Disney’s proposals would force subscribers to pay more while narrowing their viewing options. YouTube TV claims that Disney’s demands are structured in a way that would give an unfair advantage to competing platforms such as Hulu + Live TV, which is also owned by Disney.
The blackout comes after several tense contract negotiations that threatened content access earlier this year. YouTube TV narrowly avoided similar shutdowns with NBCUniversal, Paramount, and Fox through last-minute agreements. However, this time, neither side backed down before the deadline.
With top sports broadcasts, popular entertainment shows, and local ABC stations now inaccessible, impacted customers are demanding answers. YouTube TV has promised that if the suspension persists, subscribers will receive a $20 discount on their next bill.
Both companies insist they still hope to reach a resolution, but for now, viewers who rely on YouTube TV for popular sports coverage — including NFL and NBA games — remain in the dark.
