Disney and YouTube TV have reached a new deal after a two-week blackout, restoring Disney networks to YouTube TV and adding ESPN’s direct-to-consumer service. The agreement also allows YouTube to offer select Disney networks and bundles, resolving disputes over programming and financial terms.
After a two-week blackout, Disney and YouTube TV have announced a new deal, bringing Disney networks like ABC, ESPN, and FX back to YouTube’s streaming service. The agreement also includes ESPN’s direct-to-consumer service at no extra cost on YouTube TV.
As part of the deal, YouTube will offer select Disney networks and the Disney+/Hulu bundle in different packages. Disney Entertainment Co-Chairmen Alan Bergman and Dana Walden, along with ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro, emphasized the value of Disney’s programming for YouTube TV subscribers.
In a statement, the Disney executives expressed their pleasure at restoring the networks in time for fans to enjoy upcoming programming, including college football. YouTube assured subscribers that the affected channels would be reinstated throughout the day, apologizing for the disruption and thanking subscribers for their patience during negotiations.
YouTube TV, a cable TV alternative for cord cutters, faced disputes with major content providers like Disney over financial terms and content flexibility. The recent blackout, resolved with this deal, led to a $20 credit for affected customers. Despite a survey indicating subscriber cancellations, YouTube stated that actual churn was manageable and did not align with the survey findings.
TechCrunch’s Amanda Silberling humorously shared her blackout experience, highlighting the relief felt as the blackout ended, allowing her to resume watching her favorite shows.
Disclaimer: This article has been auto-generated from a syndicated RSS feed and has not been edited by Vitrina staff. It is provided solely for informational purposes on a non-commercial basis.