Disney and YouTube TV Resolve Carriage Fee Conflict, Broaden Streaming Services

Disney and YouTube TV have

involving major channels like ESPN and ABC, bringing back service to nearly 10 million users through a new multi-year contract. The agreement, , restores Disney’s complete channel lineup and adds ESPN Unlimited—Disney’s latest streaming platform—at no extra charge for YouTube TV subscribers until 2026. This settlement over carriage fees and pricing that had left viewers without vital programming, such as live sports and election news.

This impasse, one of the lengthiest in the streaming era, saw both parties blaming each other for negotiating in bad faith.

would drive up subscription prices and reduce consumer options, while enabled it to "undercut standard industry agreements." The dispute interrupted key broadcasts, including college football and ESPN’s Monday Night Football, and as compensation. for allegedly prioritizing its own services, such as Hulu + Live TV, during the talks.

Under the new pact,

by including Disney’s streaming platforms like Hulu and Disney+ with its live TV bundles. The deal also introduces genre-based channel packages, giving subscribers more customized viewing options. as being in step with changing audience habits, saying, "This demonstrates our dedication to providing outstanding entertainment as viewers decide how they want to watch." At the same time, as a positive for customers, emphasizing that it maintains the platform’s value and adaptability for the future.

This conflict

of licensing disputes in the streaming sector. In 2021, Disney and YouTube TV temporarily removed Disney content during similar negotiations. Other services, such as Univision, have also lost access after contracts lapsed, highlighting the instability of carriage agreements. YouTube TV’s base plan, now $82.99 per month, once again features Disney channels alongside networks like NBC and CBS, though users must wait until December 9 to redeem the $20 credit.

as a calculated decision by both firms. missed analyst projections, and this deal could help steady its streaming revenue. For YouTube TV, is essential in a crowded market where competitors like Fubo and Hulu + Live TV compete for viewers. The agreement also prevents further harm to both brands’ reputations, with both sides settling on terms that balance business interests and consumer access.