Disney and ESPN Return to YouTube TV
▼ Summary
– ESPN and other Disney-owned channels are returning to YouTube TV after a new agreement was reached following a two-week blackout.
– The deal was reportedly facilitated by increased involvement from Disney CEO Bob Iger and Google/Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai.
– ESPN’s full sports lineup will be included in YouTube TV’s base subscription plan by the end of next year.
– YouTube TV subscribers will see channels restored immediately, along with previously recorded content from their Library.
– Disney executives stated the agreement provides more flexibility and choice for viewers while recognizing the value of Disney’s programming.
The return of Disney and ESPN channels to YouTube TV marks a significant resolution for subscribers following a two-week blackout. A new multi-year agreement announced on Friday ensures that popular networks like ABC, ESPN, and FX are being restored to the streaming platform. This development comes after more than twenty Disney-owned channels were removed from YouTube TV on October 30th, leaving many sports and entertainment fans frustrated. Reports indicate that direct involvement from top executives, including Disney’s Bob Iger and Google’s Sundar Pichai, played a crucial role in finalizing the deal.
According to the terms, ESPN’s complete sports lineup will become accessible to all base YouTube TV plan subscribers by the end of next year. This includes a wide array of live games and sports programming that viewers have come to expect. YouTube TV released a statement expressing satisfaction with the agreement, emphasizing that it maintains the service’s value and future flexibility. They also confirmed that affected DVR recordings from the disrupted period would be restored alongside the returning channels. The company extended an apology to its user base for the inconvenience and thanked them for their patience during the negotiation process.
Disney Entertainment co-chairmen Alan Bergman and Dana Walden, alongside ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro, highlighted that the new arrangement underscores their dedication to adapting to viewer preferences. They noted that the deal acknowledges the substantial worth of Disney’s content portfolio while offering YouTube TV customers greater options and control over their viewing experience. The timely restoration means subscribers can immediately enjoy a packed weekend schedule, featuring high-profile events such as college football games.
(Source: The Verge)
