Direct answer first: Based on the latest public reports, Disney and YouTube TV have been in a carriage dispute that led to Disney channels (including ABC and ESPN) being blacked out on YouTube TV as of late October 2025. A settlement had not been announced at that moment, and coverage of the dispute suggested negotiations were ongoing with potential public-interest concessions around Election Day. For the most current status, check recent updates from major outlets, since negotiations can evolve quickly and a deal could be reached or extended at any time.
Context and what’s happening
- What happened: Disney’s networks were removed from YouTube TV after contract talks failed to yield a new licensing agreement before the expiration of the prior one. This blackout affects channels like ABC and ESPN, impacting subscribers who rely on YouTube TV for live sports, news, and Disney-owned content.
- Why it matters: ESPN and ABC are high-value assets for Disney, making a settlement particularly consequential for both sides and for subscribers who may face disrupted access to major sports and news programming.
- Current status as of late 2025: Reports indicated active negotiations with public-interest considerations (Election Day access to ABC) being cited in discussions, and some outlets noted potential consumer credits or compensation as part of settlements, but a definitive restoration of channels depended on reaching a new agreement.
What you can do now
- If you’re a YouTube TV subscriber, monitor official statements from YouTube TV and Disney for a restore timeline or a new deal. In some cases, platforms offer temporary credits or promotional adjustments if a blackout persists; check your account notices or announcements from YouTube TV.
- Consider alternative viewing options for critical content (live sports, ABC/ESPN coverage) in the interim, such as other streaming services that carry Disney networks, or official streaming apps for sports events, while respecting any regional availability and subscription requirements.
Notes on reliability
- The situation has been dynamic with multiple outlets covering the dispute, including CNBC, Reuters, AP, and industry-focused sites. The exact settlement timing can shift, so rely on the latest reports for the current status.
If you’d like, I can pull the very latest updates and summarize any new deal terms or restoration timelines as soon as they’re published.
