The fortnight-long ordeal wraps up as 21 channels make their return to YouTube TV.
Following a charged two weeks of discussions, YouTube TV subscribers can celebrate as a newly established multi-year agreement with Disney restores access to 21 channels, including ABC and ESPN, just in time for an exciting college football weekend.
Google and Disney disclosed the new arrangement in individual press releases, each highlighting a favorable result for both parties. More importantly, YouTube TV subscribers can now view all Disney content, including the new ESPN Unlimited Plan, on the platform. They’ll also have the option to include the Disney Plus and Hulu bundle as part of select YouTube TV plans.
“We’re pleased to announce that we’ve come to an agreement with Disney that maintains the value of our service for our subscribers and allows for future flexibility in our offerings,” YouTube TV stated. “We apologize for the interruption and appreciate our subscribers’ understanding as we negotiated on their behalf.”
On the other hand, Disney’s senior executives mentioned that the agreement “recognizes the significant value of Disney’s programming.”
“This new agreement illustrates our ongoing commitment to providing outstanding entertainment and adapting to how audiences prefer to watch…We are delighted that our networks have been reinstated in time for fans to enjoy the many excellent programming choices this weekend, including college football,” remarked Disney Entertainment Co-Chairmen Alan Bergman and Dana Walden, along with ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro.
The agreement concludes nearly two weeks of contentious negotiations. YouTube TV and Disney’s previous carriage deal lapsed on Oct. 30, 2025, and the parties began publicly seeking a new agreement even before its expiration. In the days and weeks that ensued, both sides faced criticism from subscribers and the general public.
Disney sought to pressure YouTube TV to restore ABC for Election Day, while subscribers expressed frustration over YouTube TV going without Monday Night Football. In turn, YouTube TV accused Disney of attempting to garner public support by leaking documents.
There were other astonishing aspects to the negotiations, such as commentator Pat McAfee calling out Disney-owned ESPN for utilizing its media personalities to pressure YouTube TV—something he did during his show which airs on ESPN. Media owned by Disney also became unavailable for purchase on unrelated platforms like Google Play and YouTube in an unexpected twist.
Now, subscribers finally receive a resolution, as 21 channels and additional Disney content return to the live TV streaming service. The multi-year agreement ensures YouTube TV users won’t have to worry about a Disney blackout for the foreseeable future.
