Starting October 31st, subscribers to YouTube TV will find that they can no longer access Disney-owned networks, such as ABC, ESPN, FX, and the Disney Channel.
This change comes as a result of an unresolved contract dispute that couldn’t be settled by the deadline on October 31 at 11:59 p.m. ET.
In a statement, YouTube TV noted, “Despite our best efforts, we are unable to reach a fair agreement, and starting today, Disney programming will no longer be available on YouTube TV.” This announcement was made public just before the deadline.
This is not the first time YouTube TV has dealt with contract issues recently; this marks the third instance in two months. There have been previous challenges with renewing deals involving FOX and NBCUniversal, as well.
For those using YouTube TV, the loss of ESPN and ABC is particularly inconvenient with college football season in full swing. Games scheduled include matchups like Vanderbilt vs. Texas and Georgia vs. Florida.
If the impasse continues, it could mean that Monday Night Football, featuring the Cardinals against the Cowboys, may also be affected.
Options for Watching ESPN and ABC
For those looking for alternatives, one option is DIRECTV, which provides a variety of plans that include the channels previously accessible via YouTube TV. They also offer a five-day free trial, which might be useful for sports fans eager to catch the games.
Here’s a look at some of DIRECTV’s popular plans and their prices, following the trial period:
- Entertainment: $49.99/month for the first month ($89.99/month after)
- Includes ABC, Disney Channel, ESPN, ESPN2, Freeform, FX, FXX, Nat Geo
- Choice: $59.99/month for the first month ($94.99/month after)
- Includes ABC, ACC Network, Disney Channel, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNEWS, ESPNU, Freeform, FX, FXX, Nat Geo, SEC Network
- Ultimate: $84.99/month for the first month ($124.99/month after)
- Includes ABC, ACC Network, Disney Channel, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNEWS, ESPNU, Freeform, FX, FXM, FXX, Nat Geo, Nat Geo Wild, SEC Network
- MySports Genre Pack: $59.99/month for the first two months ($69.99/month after)
- Includes ACC Network, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNEWS, ESPNU, SEC Network
- MyEntertainment Genre Pack: $29.99/month for the first two months ($34.99/month after)
- Includes Freeform, FX, FXM, FXX, Nat Geo, Nat Geo Wild
