Disney’s popular TV networks, including ESPN, ABC, FX, National Geographic and Disney Channel, have gone dark on YouTube TV after contract talks between Disney and Google failed to produce a new licensing deal.
Both companies confirmed the development late Thursday in separate statements, with YouTube TV announcing on X (formerly Twitter) that the networks were removed shortly before the agreement expired at midnight.
YouTube TV, which serves more than 10 million subscribers, said Disney’s proposed terms would have increased costs for viewers while favoring Disney’s own streaming platforms. “Our contract with Disney has reached its renewal date, and we will not agree to terms that disadvantage our members while benefiting Disney’s TV products,” the company stated.
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In response, Disney said it remained committed to reaching an agreement but criticized Google’s negotiating stance, accusing the tech giant of using its market power to “undercut industry-standard terms.”
The dispute marks the latest in a string of carriage battles involving YouTube TV and major media firms. Earlier this year, the service narrowly avoided similar blackouts after difficult negotiations with NBCUniversal, Fox and Paramount.
To cushion the impact on customers, YouTube TV said it would issue a $20 credit if Disney’s channels remain unavailable for an extended period.