Why is ABC not on Youtube TV?
ABC is not on YouTube TV right now because YouTube TV and Disney could not agree on a new contract. Disney owns ABC, ESPN, and several other big channels. When the deal expired, all Disney channels—including ABC—went dark for about 10 million people on YouTube TV.
Disney wanted YouTube TV to pay more for its channels. Google, which owns YouTube TV, said Disney was asking for higher rates compared to other companies. YouTube TV said it would not accept those terms because it would mean higher prices for customers.
The talks had been going on for weeks. Each side blamed the other. Disney said Google was using its size to push back against standard contracts. YouTube TV said Disney was threatening a blackout to get its way. The deal expired on October 30 at midnight in the US. As soon as the deadline passed, Disney removed all its channels. This includes ABC, ESPN, Disney Channel, FX, National Geographic, and others. Not only live TV but also recordings and saved shows from these channels were removed.
No one knows how long the blackout will last. YouTube TV says it hopes to fix things but won’t pay much more than other pay-TV brands. Disney tells viewers it wants a fair rate and is open to working fast to resolve the dispute.
This blackout happened during the busy sports season. NBA, NFL, and college football games are missing for YouTube TV viewers. Many people feel frustrated since they lost access without warning right before big games and events.
If the blackout continues for a while, YouTube TV is giving a $20 credit to those affected. For now, the only way to watch ABC live is to use another service, like Hulu Live TV, cable, or Fubo. Until Disney and YouTube TV make a new deal, ABC and other Disney channels will stay off YouTube TV.
People who rely on YouTube TV for live sports, news, or entertainment from ABC will need a backup. Many are just waiting for news on when, if ever, the channels will come back.
Disclaimer:
This information is provided for general informational purposes only and reflects the situation as of the time of writing. The dispute between YouTube TV and Disney may change as negotiations continue. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please check official statements from YouTube TV or Disney.
