Tech Desk 
Nov 16, 2025
Two weeks following a blackout, YouTube TV and Disney finally agreed on common terms on Friday, reaching an agreement to restore Disney networks, including ABC, ESPN, and FX, to YouTube TV.
The most outstanding part of the agreement is a new clause, which makes ESPN's new direct-to-consumer service accessible on YouTube's streaming service at no extra cost.
Additionally, YouTube will also offer select Disney networks and the Disney+/Hulu bundle under various packages.
Disney Entertainment Co-Chairmen Alan Bergman and Dana Walden, along with ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro, stated that the deal acknowledges the value of Disney’s programming while improving flexibility and choice for YouTube TV subscribers.
The higher-ups from the American multinational mass media conglomerate expressed satisfaction that the networks were restored in time for fans to enjoy upcoming programming, including college football.
The streaming giant confirmed that affected channels would be reinstated shortly and apologised for the disruption.
The agreement between YouTube and Disney and the subsequent resumption of Disney channels on YouTube TV serve as a cable TV alternative for cord-cutters, but it has faced disputes with major content providers over pricing and content bundling.
The previous renegotiation held in 2022 also led to a brief blackout, and this time, YouTube offered customers a $20 credit redeemable on their next bills.
A survey indicated that 24% of YouTube TV’s over 10 million subscribers had either cancelled or planned to cancel their subscriptions due to the blackout, while YouTube claimed that the actual subscriber base was manageable and did not reflect these survey findings.
