Disney Networks Pulled from YouTube TV as Contract Negotiations with Google Break Down
Disney’s television networks have been removed from Google’s YouTube TV after negotiations for a new licensing agreement collapsed late on October 30. Both companies confirmed the breakdown in separate statements.
The blackout affects major Disney-owned channels such as ESPN, ABC, FX, National Geographic, Nat Geo Wild, Disney Channel, and ABC News Live. According to a source quoted by Reuters, Disney’s networks were pulled from YouTube TV shortly before the contract officially expired at midnight. YouTube TV announced the removal on X (formerly Twitter) at 11:16 pm ET.
Standoff Between Media Giants
YouTube TV, which has more than 10 mln subscribers in the United States, has faced several tense renewal battles this year with major media groups threatening to withdraw their channels. Earlier in October, it narrowly reached an agreement with Comcast’s NBCUniversal to retain shows such as Sunday Night Football and America’s Got Talent. Similar deals with Fox and Paramount were also finalised earlier in 2025.
However, negotiations with Disney failed to reach a compromise. YouTube TV said Disney’s latest proposal would increase costs for subscribers while favouring the company’s own streaming platforms like Hulu + Live TV.
«Our contract with Disney has reached its renewal date, and we will not agree to terms that disadvantage our members while benefiting Disney’s TV products,» YouTube TV stated on X.
Members, when we renew our contracts with network partners, we advocate for fair pricing to offer you the best TV experience. Our contract with Disney has reached its renewal date, and we'll not agree to terms that disadvantage our members while benefiting Disney’s TV products.
— YouTube TV (@YouTubeTV) October 31, 2025
Disney Accuses Google of Market Abuse
A Disney spokesperson said the company remains committed to finding a resolution but accused Google of using its size to undermine fair competition.
«With a $3 trln market cap, Google is using its market dominance to eliminate competition and undercut the industry-standard terms we have successfully negotiated with every other distributor,» the spokesperson said.
YouTube TV has offered subscribers a $20 credit if the Disney channels remain unavailable for an extended period.
The platform also dropped Spanish-language network Univision last month after another failed renewal agreement, adding to its growing list of disputes with content providers.
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