Disney and YouTube have reached a multi-year distribution agreement to bring back ABC, ESPN, and other Disney-owned channels to the YouTube TV streaming platform. This deal resolves a blackout that began in October, during which Disney pulled its programming due to an impasse in negotiations over channel carriage rates.
Disney stated that the agreement recognizes the value of its programming and offers YouTube TV subscribers increased flexibility and choice. The restoration of channels began immediately, allowing viewers to access content like college football and other programming.
The agreement also permits Disney+ and Hulu Bundle content to be shared on YouTube TV. YouTube, owned by Alphabet, had accused Disney of using the threat of a blackout as a negotiating tactic to potentially increase prices for its subscribers and benefit its own streaming services.
Disney, conversely, had claimed YouTube TV was unwilling to pay fair rates for its channels. YouTube apologized for the disruption and stated that subscribers could expect their library recordings to return within 24 hours.
YouTube TV is the largest internet TV provider in the U.S. with over 9 million subscribers.
