Short answer: ESPN and other Disney channels are currently unavailable on YouTube TV due to a carriage dispute between YouTube TV (a Google service) and Disney. This blackout began around late October 2025 as the two sides negotiate a new distribution agreement, and it has affected ESPN networks, ABC, and related channels. Until a deal is reached, you can’t stream those networks on YouTube TV, including live sports like Monday Night Football.

Details and options

• Why the channels are missing
  • Disney owns ESPN and ABC, and a contract dispute with YouTube TV led to the removal of these channels from the service. The core issue is pricing and the value YouTube TV places on Disney’s channels versus what Disney demands.

• What you can watch instead (current alternatives)
  • Consider other streaming services that still carry ESPN/Disney networks if you want to keep ESPN content without switching providers. Availability varies by region and plan, but several live TV services still offer Disney networks alongside ESPN.

* ESPN content can often be accessed via the ESPN app or ESPN’s website/app with a valid TV provider login, though this requires a separate subscription or authentication from a different provider.

* Over-the-air access for ABC is possible with a digital antenna in many areas, though ESPN and some sports networks won’t be available via antenna.

• What YouTube TV subscribers are getting
  • Google indicated it would provide a credit if the blackout persisted for an extended period, typically around $20, as a partial compensation while negotiations continue. Exact eligibility and timing depend on the service’s policies.

• Impact on live sports
  • Major live sports events that typically air on ESPN networks, including Monday Night Football and various college sports broadcasts, are not accessible on YouTube TV during the blackout. Fans may need to watch via alternate providers or the ESPN app with a separate subscription.

Practical steps you can take now

• Check alternative streaming services (e.g., services that carry ESPN and ABC) and compare pricing, channels, and any free trial offers. If ESPN is essential, temporarily switching to another service that includes Disney networks may be the smoothest option.

• Use the ESPN app or website with a valid provider login if you already subscribe to a different service that includes ESPN (or obtain a separate subscription if needed).

• If ABC/ESPN coverage is important, consider an over-the-air antenna for ABC in your area and pair it with a streaming service that offers the other channels you want.

Bottom line

• The inability to watch ESPN on YouTube TV right now is due to a carriage dispute with Disney. A resolution is required for ESPN, ABC, and related networks to return to YouTube TV. In the meantime, explore alternative streaming options or access ESPN content through the ESPN app with a separate login, or via an antenna for ABC where available.