Disney and YouTube TV Reach Agreement After Two-Week Blackout

Disney and YouTube TV Reach Agreement After Two-Week Blackout

Disney and YouTube TV have come to an agreement, ending a two-week blackout of ESPN, ABC, and other Disney-owned networks on YouTube TV. The blackout began on October 30 when the two companies failed to reach a deal before the previous contract expired. Disney claims to have offered YouTube TV a cost-effective deal with fair terms in line with other distributors. They also offered tailored programming packages for different audiences. YouTube TV, on the other hand, argued that Disney was asking for higher rates compared to other providers and disputed the tailored programming packages as Disney's proposal. The blackout resulted in revenue losses for both parties, with estimates suggesting Disney was losing $30 million per week. YouTube TV offered subscribers a $20 credit to prevent cancellations during the blackout. A survey found that some subscribers were considering canceling due to the lack of core content. This resolution follows previous disputes between Disney and other providers, with YouTube TV still in negotiations with TelevisaUnivision.