Negotiations Between YouTube TV and Disney Continue
It seems like YouTube TV and Disney are inching closer to a deal that could see ESPN return to its subscribers. However, they still haven’t finalized the agreement, and a significant obstacle remains in their way.
A report from The Athletic indicated that both companies are still at odds over the pricing of Disney’s “supplementary non-sports networks,” which include channels like Freeform, FX, and National Geographic.
Disney’s networks, such as ESPN and ABC, were removed from YouTube TV on October 30, sparking disappointment for 10 million subscribers who missed crucial events like “Monday Night Football” and big college football games.
In response to the blackout, YouTube TV offered its subscribers a $20 credit last week after they missed two weekends of college football and “MNF.”
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr voiced his opinion, stating that “Google and Disney need to reach a deal to end this blackout.” He emphasized the importance of viewers being able to access the shows they pay for, including sports.
Disney is set to release its quarterly earnings report on Thursday, which could push the company to consider renewing their agreements, according to the report.
All of Disney’s channels—including ESPN, ABC, and the Disney Channel—are part of bundle negotiations. While Disney argues these bundles offer great discounts, distributors feel it’s an effort to force less popular channels at inflated rates.
YouTube TV has shown little enthusiasm for paying for Disney’s additional channels, and some lesser-watched programming is starting to shift to other streaming services.
As negotiations develop, executives like Google CEO Sundar Pichai and Disney President Bob Iger are reportedly becoming more involved.
Supporting Disney’s negotiation efforts are entertainment co-chairmen Dana Walden and Alan Berman, along with ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro.
Earlier this year, Justin Connolly, who had been YouTube TV’s global head of media and sports, switched from Disney after unsuccessful negotiations due to a perceived conflict of interest. The situation escalated to litigation, but he eventually got permission to leave his Disney contract unless he engaged in mediation.
Though no agreement has been reached yet, there is some hope that ESPN could eventually be back on the screens of YouTube TV subscribers.
Alternative Ways to Watch ESPN and ABC for Free
If you’re looking for options outside of YouTube TV, there are other live streaming services offering good deals and access to channels that YouTube TV customers can no longer access.
- DirecTV: They offer a 5-day free trial, with plans starting at $49.99 for the first month. This includes coverage for all affected channels, allowing access to NFL, NBA, NHL, and college sports.
- Sling TV: This is a flexible option for those who only want to watch ESPN occasionally. For just $4.99, you can grab a Sling Orange Day Pass, giving you 24-hour access to ESPN and ESPN2.
