If you have YouTube TV and accessed the streaming app today, you might have noticed that ABC, ESPN, and other Disney content are missing from the subscription service.
According to CNN, that’s because Disney has pulled its content from the streamer after failing to come to an agreement with Google (YouTube’s owner) over airing content.
After Disney and Google failed to reach a new carriage agreement for Disney content on YouTube TV, Disney has pulled its programming from the streaming site. That means, for the time being, you won’t be able to watch ESPN, ABC, Disney Channel, FX, National Geographic, and Freeform on YouTube TV.
However, both companies are still in talks, but there is no indication of when the issue might be resolved.
“Unfortunately, Google’s YouTube TV has chosen to deny their subscribers the content they value most by refusing to pay fair rates for our channels, including ESPN and ABC,” a Disney spokesperson said. “Without a new agreement in place, their subscribers will not have access to our programming, which includes the best lineup in live sports — anchored by the NFL, NBA, and college football, with 13 of the top 25 college teams playing this weekend.”
Google wrote in a statement that Disney’s decision “directly harms our subscribers while benefiting their own live TV products, including Hulu + Live TV and Fubo.”
So, why is this happening? Disney wants higher carriage fees due to the value it feels its networks bring to the service. However, Google has stated that this would result in higher prices for YouTube TV customers and give them fewer choices.
We’ll keep an eye on the situation as it continues, so check back with AllEars again soon for more.
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Are you a YouTube TV subscriber? What do you think? Let us know in the comments!
I hope YouTube TV doesn’t give in. Disney is way overpriced from parks to merch to streaming. I love that YouTube TV is standing up to Disney! Hold out as long as it takes to get a FAIR deal!