According to CNBC, Disney began warning YouTube TV subscribers on October 23, 2025 that major networks could disappear from the platform. The current distribution agreement between Disney and YouTube TV expires on October 30, 2025 at 11:59 PM ET. Without a new deal, approximately 10 million YouTube TV subscribers will lose access to ESPN, ABC, FX, National Geographic, and Disney Channel.

Disney issued a statement claiming Google is exploiting its market position at the expense of customers. The company wants YouTube TV to pay rates that reflect the value of its programming, including live sports coverage of the NFL, college football, NBA, and NHL seasons. YouTube TV countered that Disney proposes economic terms that would force price increases on subscribers while benefiting Disney's competing services like Hulu + Live TV and Fubo.

Financial Stakes for Both Companies

This dispute affects one of the largest streaming television providers in the United States. Stream TV Insider reported in July 2025 that YouTube TV holds approximately 9.4 million subscribers and commands 40 percent of the virtual multichannel video programming distributor market. The platform charges $82.99 per month for its base package.

YouTube TV has offered subscribers a $20 credit if Disney channels remain unavailable for an extended period. The timing creates pressure on both sides. Major sporting events scheduled for late October and early November include NFL games, college football matchups, and the start of the NBA season. Subscribers unable to watch these events may cancel their service or switch to competitors.

Disney faces its own financial considerations. The company invested heavily in ESPN programming rights and depends on carriage fees from distributors to offset those costs. YouTube TV wants the same deal Disney offered Charter Communications in 2023, which gave certain Charter subscribers access to Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ at no extra charge. Disney has indicated willingness to match those terms.

Pattern Reflects Broader Industry Tensions

YouTube TV has engaged in multiple carriage disputes during 2025. The platform resolved a similar conflict with NBCUniversal in September after reaching a comprehensive agreement. Fox and YouTube TV reached a deal in August, avoiding a blackout. However, TelevisaUnivision channels remain dark on YouTube TV following a September dispute.

Ocean Media noted in March 2025 that carriage disputes now extend for longer periods compared to previous years. Both networks and distributors recognize that viewers can access content through alternative platforms. The rise of streaming services and direct-to-consumer options has reduced urgency to settle quickly. Financial pressures on both sides have intensified negotiations, with networks demanding higher fees while distributors resist passing costs to subscribers.

An additional complication involves former Disney distribution executive Justin Connolly. He joined YouTube TV in May 2025, effectively switching sides of the bargaining table. Disney filed a breach of contract lawsuit against YouTube TV over the hiring, though a judge rejected Disney's request for a temporary restraining order in June.

Further Reading

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