YouTube TV subscribers lost access to ESPN and other Disney channels Thursday night after contract talks between Google and Disney collapsed. More than 10 million subscribers were left without channels like ABC, FX, Disney Jr., National Geographic, and ESPN.
The dispute centers on pricing, with both companies blaming each other. Disney accused Google of refusing to pay fair rates for its channels, saying, “Without a new agreement, their subscribers will not have access to our programming, which includes the best lineup in live sports.”
In response, Google claimed Disney is using the blackout to push viewers to its own platforms like Hulu + Live TV and Fubo. Google also offered a $20 credit to subscribers if the channels remain unavailable for an extended period.
The timing is especially inconvenient for sports fans, as major college football games on ABC and ESPN are scheduled for this weekend, including Vanderbilt vs. Texas, Georgia vs. Florida, and Oklahoma at Tennessee. ESPN's College Gameday will also be affected.
YouTube TV has faced similar broadcasting disputes recently, including disagreements with Fox and Comcast, highlighting ongoing tensions between streaming services and content providers.
The dispute centers on pricing, with both companies blaming each other. Disney accused Google of refusing to pay fair rates for its channels, saying, “Without a new agreement, their subscribers will not have access to our programming, which includes the best lineup in live sports.”
In response, Google claimed Disney is using the blackout to push viewers to its own platforms like Hulu + Live TV and Fubo. Google also offered a $20 credit to subscribers if the channels remain unavailable for an extended period.
The timing is especially inconvenient for sports fans, as major college football games on ABC and ESPN are scheduled for this weekend, including Vanderbilt vs. Texas, Georgia vs. Florida, and Oklahoma at Tennessee. ESPN's College Gameday will also be affected.
YouTube TV has faced similar broadcasting disputes recently, including disagreements with Fox and Comcast, highlighting ongoing tensions between streaming services and content providers.
