ABC vanished from YouTube TV on Oct. 30, 2025. The Disney–Google carriage dispute escalated overnight. 10 million subscribers lost access to major networks. YouTube TV is offering a $20 credit starting Nov. 9.
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🔥 Quick Facts:
- 21 Disney channels pulled from YouTube TV including ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, FX, Disney Channel
- $20 credit starts Nov. 9, 2025 if channels remain unavailable
- Carriage dispute centers on licensing fees between Disney and Google
- Both sides blaming each other for failed contract negotiations
- No resolution timeline announced as of Nov. 8, 2025
What Happened to ABC on YouTube TV?
The blackout hit hard on Oct. 30 at midnight. ABC, ESPN, and 20 other Disney networks vanished. YouTube TV and Disney couldn’t agree on licensing terms. This marks the biggest streaming carriage battle in years.
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Disney channels pulled include ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPNews, Freeform, FX, FXX, FXM, Disney Channel, Disney Junior, Nat Geo, Star, and ACC/SEC networks. That’s 21 channels total affecting millions of subscribers nationwide.
“Our proposal would permit us to return Disney’s ABC stations only for a day and will cause customer confusion among those who subscribe to YouTube TV.”
Why This Matters for You
You’re caught in the middle of a contract war. Both companies claim they want fair deals. Disney says Google refuses to pay market rates. Google says Disney demands higher fees than competitors pay.
Your viewing experience suffers immediately. Monday Night Football disappeared. Good Morning America went dark. Local ABC news vanished. Sports fans can’t watch college football on ESPN without finding alternatives.
The $20 credit helps slightly. But it’s a one-time offer, not permanent relief. You’re essentially getting $20 compensation for losing 21 channels. Do the math yourself.
Channel Blackout Details and Timeline
This dispute came fast. Here’s what happened:
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Oct. 30, 2025 | Contract expires at midnight. 21 Disney channels pulled from YouTube TV |
| Nov. 3, 2025 | Election Day arrives. Disney requests ABC restoration for coverage |
| Nov. 4, 2025 | Google rejects one-day ABC restoration request |
| Nov. 8, 2025 | Disney exec memo signals no deal through weekend |
| Nov. 9, 2025 | $20 credits begin rolling out to affected subscribers |
The 19-day blackout already impacts college football season. Monday Night Football couldn’t air on ABC. Subscribers feeling the pain every single day.
What’s Next in This Standoff?
Here’s what to watch for:
- Both sides remain “far apart” on key financial terms. No timeline for resolution.
- YouTube TV may face subscriber cancellations if blackout stretches beyond 3-4 weeks
- Disney risks brand damage losing sports coverage during lucrative season
- Cold weather brings holiday sports schedules. Pressure builds rapidly.
- Either company could request arbitration or file legal action
Will This ABC Blackout Ever End?
Not soon. YouTube TV and Disney are dug in. This isn’t about losing money—it’s about leverage. Google wants to keep customer costs low. Disney demands premium rates for premium content.
Historical carriage disputes lasted weeks to months. The 2022 DirecTV/Disney fight took 10 days. The 2013 Time Warner Cable/CBS dispute lasted 19 days. This one could stretch longer.
Meanwhile, you’re stuck. Watch on ESPN+ directly. Use Hulu Live TV or Sling TV. Switch providers temporarily. But the real fix? Only happens when YouTube TV and Disney stop negotiating in the press and actually make a deal. Will that happen this week?
Sources
- Reuters – YouTube says open to deal with Disney to restore networks
- The Hollywood Reporter – Disney-YouTube blackout set to continue through weekend
- Variety – When will YouTube TV issue $20 credit for Disney, ABC blackout
Daniel Harris is a specialist journalist focused on the crossroads of breaking news, extraordinary history, and enduring legends. With a background in historical research and storytelling, he blends timely reporting with timeless narratives, making complex events and ancient myths resonate with today’s readers. Daniel’s work often uncovers surprising links between present-day headlines and legendary tales, offering unique perspectives that captivate diverse audiences. Beyond reporting, he is passionate about preserving oral traditions and exploring how extraordinary stories continue to shape culture and identity.