Disney and YouTube have struck a multi-year distribution agreement that ends a 15-day blackout that removed ABC, ESPN, FX, and other channels from the YouTube TV streaming platform.
All Disney networks will now be restored to YouTube TV customers. The deal ends a stand-off which saw Disney pull programming from YouTube TV in late October 2025. The dispute centred around the carriage fees that distributors like YouTube TV pay to carry broadcast and cable networks.
Before the deal was reached, Disney had said that YouTube TV was refusing to pay fair rates for its channel. Meanwhile, YouTube claimed that Disney was using the blackout as a negotiating tactic that would have resulted in higher prices for its subscribers.
Sports and political programming were among the casualties of the dispute, as YouTube TV users were unable to watch American football games or US Election Day coverage on 4 November 2025.
Alan Bergman and Dana Walden, the two Co-Chairmen of Disney Entertainment, released a joint statement with Jimmy Pitaro, Chairman of ESPN, which said the deal “recognises the tremendous value of Disney’s programming and provides YouTube TV subscribers with more flexibility and choice. We are pleased that our networks have been restored in time for fans to enjoy the many great programming options this weekend, including college football.”
Last month, YouTube said it would give subscribers a $20 credit if Disney content was unavailable “for an extended period of time.” For context, YouTube TV’s base subscription plan costs $82.99 per month. Additionally, YouTube is the largest internet TV provider in the US with more than 9 million subscribers.
According to recent research by Ampere Analysis, nearly one in five (18%) of YouTube users watch full-length movies and TV shows on the platform. Discover more here.
.jpg)
Expanded Future Tech to showcase the very best in innovation, technology and talent
After a successful debut in 2025, Future Tech returns to Hall 14 of the RAI this year, with more features, more innovation and more of the technologies shaping the next era of media and entertainment.
Netflix uses GenAI on 300 titles in 2026
Netflix has revealed that nearly 300 titles on its platform have used generative AI, from early concept stages and pre-visualisation through to post-production and release.
Poppy Dixon appointed BBC Head of Documentaries
The BBC has appointed former Sky executive Poppy Dixon as its Head of Documentaries.
Virgin Media launches AI robots to monitor TV network in real-time
Virgin Media has created its own AI robots to monitor its television network quality in real-time in a bid to quickly identify and resolve any issues when they occur.
US government seizes over 1,000 websites streaming FIFA World Cup
Global anti-piracy coalition the Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment (ACE) has applauded the US government’s seizure of over 1000 illegal websites streaming the FIFA World Cup over the past month.
