- By Alex David
- Sun, 16 Nov 2025 11:20 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
After two frustrating weeks of missing channels and growing subscriber ire, YouTube TV and Disney have finally reached an agreement on an arrangement to service subscribers' needs. A blackout that removed Disney-owned networks such as ABC, ESPN, FX and National Geographic from YouTube TV had caused widespread outrage among those using it as an alternative cable provider. Now those channels have made their comeback--with an offer that goes beyond simply restoring access. ESPN Direct to Consumer Service will be included with YouTube TV at no additional charge and YouTube will gain expanded flexibility to bundle select Disney channels as part of a Disney+/Hulu package. This agreement represents an important breakthrough for both companies as they face rising tensions, subscriber expectations and the economic realities of modern streaming services.
What the New YouTube TV–Disney Deal Includes
Disney Channels Return to YouTube TV
All previously blacked-out channels—including ABC, ESPN, FX, and others—are being restored. YouTube says the rollout will appear “throughout the day.”
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ESPN’s New Standalone Streaming Service Comes to YouTube TV
As part of the agreement, ESPN’s upcoming direct-to-consumer platform will be available to YouTube TV subscribers at no additional charge. This gives YouTube a stronger sports offering heading into major college and professional seasons.
More Bundling Options
YouTube TV will now be able to sell:
- Select Disney networks à la carte
- The Disney+ and Hulu bundle through new package options
Disney executives called the arrangement one that “recognizes the tremendous value” of their programming while giving viewers more ways to subscribe.
Why the Blackout Happened
Like most carriage disputes, the standoff centered around:
- Pricing negotiations
- How YouTube TV could package Disney channels across bundles
The last time these companies renegotiated was in 2022, which resulted in a shorter blackout. This time, the outage lasted roughly two weeks and caused significant user frustration.
Impact on YouTube TV Subscribers
Google offered affected users a $20 credit for the interruption.
A survey suggested nearly 24% of the service’s 10 million+ subscribers had canceled or planned to cancel, though YouTube said actual churn was “manageable” and didn’t match the survey results.
Many were affected by the blackout, including live sports events and popular shows like Jeopardy!, leading them to express their discontent online.
Final Thoughts
This dispute illustrates an unfortunate reality of streaming services: although platforms promise ease, carriage disagreements often continue to feel like old-school cable battles. The new deal should stabilise YouTube TV’s lineup for now, and the addition of ESPN’s standalone service adds genuine value. Still, with rising licensing costs and competing streaming priorities, future blackouts are never off the table. For subscribers, the hope is simple—more choice, fewer interruptions, and a dependable replacement for traditional cable.