Disney and Google finally settle streaming feud, bringing ESPN networks back to millions of frustrated YouTube TV viewers

Disney’s return to YouTube TV ends a tense blackout that stretched close to two weeks and frustrated millions of subscribers who rely on the platform for sports and entertainment. Viewers finally saw their screens return to normal on Friday night after Disney and YouTube TV reached a new carriage agreement that restores popular channels like ABC, ESPN and FX.

The standoff had grown unusually bitter and public, and with college football heading into important matchups, pressure on both companies intensified.The companies moved quickly once talks restarted, and both sides framed the final agreement as a win for viewers. For many fans who found themselves without “Monday Night Football,” the timing could not have been more urgent. Channels began returning over the course of the day, and recordings also reappeared in user libraries.

The long wait reminded subscribers how fragile digital TV access can be when negotiations stall.

YouTube TV and Disney deal unlocks ESPN Unlimited and restores channels

In their joint statement, Disney leaders Alan Bergman, Dana Walden and Jimmy Pitaro said, “This new agreement reflects our continued commitment to delivering exceptional entertainment and evolving with how audiences choose to watch. It recognizes the tremendous value of Disney’s programming and provides YouTube TV subscribers with more flexibility and choice.

We are pleased that our networks have been restored in time for fans to enjoy the many great programming options this weekend, including college football.

”YouTube echoed the relief. A company spokesperson said, “We’re happy to share that we’ve reached an agreement with Disney that preserves the value of our service for our subscribers and future flexibility in our offers. Subscribers should see channels including ABC, ESPN and FX returning to their service over the course of the day, as well as any recordings that were previously in their Library.

We apologize for the disruption and appreciate our subscribers’ patience as we negotiated on their behalf.

”The new deal carries major perks. YouTube TV subscribers will get access to ESPN’s new direct to consumer Unlimited service at no extra cost once the rollout finishes in 2026. This matters to sports fans, especially those following WWE, since major events like Wrestlemania are now inside ESPN Unlimited. YouTube will also gain the ability to offer the Disney Plus and Hulu bundle, along with future channel package flexibility.Behind the scenes, the talks were intense. Money and complicated rate terms slowed progress, and both Bob Iger and Sundar Pichai reportedly stepped in. The blackout lasted longer than expected and even affected ratings, considering YouTube TV’s estimated 10 million subscribers.After public pressure, political pushback and growing frustration, the two sides made the final push. Subscribers now have their channels back, and the long standoff is officially over.More NFL coverageDrake Maye’s wife steals spotlight with furry TNF look that oddly has ‘nothing to do with Patriots’Travis Kelce fuels holiday drama with candid opinion on the “too early” Christmas decoration controversy