Disney has removed its content from YouTube TV, including popular channels such as ABC, ESPN, and Disney Channel, after negotiations with Google did not lead to a new distribution agreement before the contract expired. YouTube TV announced that starting October 30, Disney programs will no longer be available, affecting over 20 channels. The company stated that users will receive a $20 credit if the situation persists. Disney accused Google of refusing to pay fair rates, while YouTube TV claimed that Disney used the threat of pulling the broadcast as a negotiation tactic.
The standoff occurs in a context of fierce competition for premium content, and sources mentioned that Disney proposed an agreement that would have included free access to its streaming services, but YouTube requested their integration into the platform, which was rejected by Disney. This dispute comes after another similar situation between YouTube TV and NBCUniversal, which was resolved at the last minute.
Sources