YouTube TV subscribers have lost access to Disney-owned networks, including ABC, ESPN, FX, National Geographic, and the Disney Channel, after the two companies failed to reach a new content distribution agreement.
In a blog post late Thursday, Google’s YouTube TV confirmed that Disney had followed through on its warning to pull its programming from the platform amid stalled negotiations. The blackout is expected to affect coverage of major sporting events this weekend, including college football, NBA, NFL, and NHL games.
YouTube TV, the largest internet-based TV provider in the U.S. with over 9 million subscribers, said the dispute centers on pricing. Disney, which owns Hulu, the second-largest provider with roughly half as many subscribers, is accused by YouTube of using the threat of a blackout to pressure for higher fees — a move that also benefits Disney’s competing services, Hulu + Live TV and Fubo.
“We know this is frustrating and disappointing for our subscribers,” YouTube said in a statement. “We continue to urge Disney to work with us constructively toward a fair deal that restores their networks to YouTube TV.”
YouTube added that it would issue a $20 credit to users if Disney’s channels remain unavailable “for an extended period.” The service’s standard monthly plan costs $82.99.
Disney, meanwhile, accused YouTube TV of refusing to pay fair market rates for its channels, arguing that the platform’s stance deprives subscribers of popular programming — particularly with several top college football teams playing this weekend.
“With a $3 trillion market cap, Google is using its market dominance to stifle competition and undercut industry-standard terms we’ve successfully reached with every other distributor,” Disney said, adding that it remains committed to finding a resolution quickly.
The standoff highlights ongoing tensions between major content owners and streaming distributors as both sides battle for dominance — and subscriber loyalty — in the crowded online TV market.