Disney Networks Go Dark on YouTube TV Amid Licensing Standoff
Disney's networks, including ESPN and ABC, were removed from YouTube TV after licensing negotiations failed. YouTube TV stressed that Disney's terms would hike subscriber costs and benefit Hulu + Live TV. Disney criticized Google's market dominance. YouTube subscribers may receive a $20 credit if Disney networks stay dark.
The blackout of Disney's networks on YouTube TV, including popular channels like ESPN and ABC, comes after a failure to reach a licensing agreement, according to statements from both companies on Thursday night.
The negotiations, which ended ahead of a contract expiration set for midnight, saw Disney's offering disappear from Google's YouTube TV—a platform with over 10 million subscribers in the U.S. YouTube previously navigated tough negotiations with NBCUniversal, Fox, and Paramount successfully, keeping popular shows on its roster.
With Disney's terms potentially raising prices for subscribers, YouTube TV stands firm, accusing Disney of leveraging its content for self-benefit. Meanwhile, Disney claims Google leverages its market cap to crowd out competitors. A $20 credit is on the table for subscribers if Disney's channels remain unavailable for long.
Google News