The contract dispute between Disney and YouTube TV persists into another weekend without a resolution, despite indications of progress. Disney executives have cautioned that the conflict might extend, potentially leaving subscribers without access to key channels like ABC, ESPN, and FX. This uncertainty led to a more than 7% drop in Disney’s stock on Thursday.
YouTube TV’s 10 million customers have been unable to view Disney channels since October 30. Alternatives for streaming ESPN and ABC include DirecTV Stream, offering a five-day free trial and a first-month subscription at $49.99; Fubo TV, with a similar trial and a $45.99 monthly fee; and Sling TV, which provides a 24-hour access “Day Pass” for $4.99 and a $29.99 monthly subscription without a free trial.
The timeline for YouTube TV regaining ESPN remains unclear. Typically, such disputes are resolved swiftly, making this situation unusual, especially during the football season. College and NFL fans relying on YouTube TV are missing significant games on ABC and ESPN, including Monday Night Football. Disney CEO Bob Iger has indicated the disagreement could be prolonged, with negotiations reportedly stalled over the fees YouTube TV should pay for Disney’s non-sports networks like Freeform, FX, and National Geographic.
