Direct answer first: Yes, as of November 2025, Disney channels (including ESPN and ABC) are not available on YouTube TV due to a carriage dispute. The suppliers and YouTube TV have not yet renewed a new agreement, and talks have continued with both sides proposing options and occasionally debating temporary restoration plans. Context and what's happening
- What happened: Disney pulled its channels from YouTube TV after the existing contract expired without a renewed deal. This blackout affects a large portion of Disney’s networks, such as ABC, ESPN, Disney Channel, and related properties, impacting live sports, news, and entertainment programming on YouTube TV.
- Company positions: YouTube TV has described Disney’s proposals as overly aggressive in terms of fees and has argued that the economics of pay TV are evolving, while Disney contends that its channels provide value and that compensation should reflect audience reach and demand.
- Recent developments: There have been ongoing discussions, with YouTube TV offering to restore certain Disney networks temporarily in specific contexts (for example around Election Night) as a goodwill gesture, but Disney has asked for broader or longer-term restoration and a renewal that meets its terms. Across outlets, outlets have reported multiple extensions and continued negotiations, with some reports noting potential credits for subscribers if the blackout persists longer than expected.
What this means for viewers
- If you rely on YouTube TV for Disney-owned content, you will not be able to access ESPN, ABC, Disney Channel, and other Disney networks while the dispute continues.
- Some programming may still be available through alternative services or platforms (for example, Hulu + Live TV or other providers that carry Disney networks), depending on the terms of those arrangements.
- YouTube TV has indicated it will consider customer credits if the blackout lasts an extended period, signaling some willingness to compensate impacted subscribers.
What to watch next
- Expect ongoing negotiations with media outlets and occasional public statements from both sides as deadlines approach and as proposals evolve, including potential temporary channel restorations for specific events or coverage windows while negotiations continue.
- For the latest status, check trusted trade and mainstream outlets’ updates, since the situation can change with new deal terms or interim arrangements.
If you’d like, I can summarize the current status from a few recent reports and compare what each side is requesting, or outline alternative ways to continue accessing needed programming during the blackout.