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The Google-Disney dispute affected millions of YouTube TV subscribers for two weeks. The conflict began on October 31, when more than 20 Disney-owned channels were removed from the service. This included major networks like ABC, ESPN, FX, and National Geographic. The loss of these channels disrupted live sports, entertainment shows, and the daily routines of many viewers.
The Google-Disney talks centered on carriage fees and the cost of including Disney networks in YouTube TV’s base package. ESPN, Disney’s most expensive channel, charges more than $10 per subscriber each month. This price point played a major role in the disagreement. YouTube TV even offered its users $20 credits as compensation during the standoff.
On Friday, both companies announced they had reached a new deal. This Google-Disney agreement will restore ABC, ESPN, and other Disney-owned networks.
“We’re happy to share that we’ve reached an agreement with Disney that preserves the value of our service,” YouTube said in a statement.
Disney leaders also said the deal reflects “how audiences choose to watch” content today.
Why did the Google-Disney dispute start?
The Google-Disney conflict began with a disagreement over how much YouTube TV would pay to carry Disney-owned channels. Disney wanted rates that matched the value of its sports, news, and entertainment programming. YouTube TV wanted pricing that would keep its base plan affordable for subscribers. This difference in expectations led to the blackout.
ESPN was at the center of the issue. It is Disney’s highest-priced network and one of the most expensive on US television. CNBC previously reported that ESPN charges more than any other network in the country. Because YouTube TV includes ESPN in its main plan, the network accounts for a significant portion of its costs. This made the negotiations over the deal more difficult.
During the blackout, subscribers missed college football games, Monday Night Football matchups, and other major events. YouTube TV said it understood the frustration and apologized.
“We appreciate our subscribers’ patience as we negotiated on their behalf,” the company said.
The return of the channels now marks the end of the tense standoff between Google and Disney.
What does the new Google-Disney deal include?
The new deal restores more than 20 channels. Viewers will see ABC, ESPN, FX, Disney Channel, Freeform, and Nat Geo come back throughout the day. Recordings that were previously deleted from users’ libraries will also be restored. This allows subscribers to continue watching shows they saved before the blackout.
A key aspect of the agreement is future programming access. Disney said that ESPN Unlimited, its upcoming all-in-one digital service, will be available on YouTube TV at no extra cost by the end of 2026. This will include select ESPN+ content and new programming. It shows that both companies are planning for long-term changes in how people watch TV.
Disney shared a memo with employees after the deal.
Leaders Alan Bergman, Dana Walden, and Jimmy Pitaro wrote, “This was a challenging moment, but it led to a strong outcome.”
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They also thanked the teams who worked through the negotiations. YouTube said the new deal gives them “future flexibility” with programming offers. The Google-Disney partnership appears stable for now.
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