Overview
- Disney says its networks may be pulled when the current deal expires Oct. 30 at 11:59 p.m. ET, and it has been running warnings on YouTube TV.
- YouTube TV is pressing to let subscribers access Disney+, Hulu and ESPN+ without leaving the YouTube interface, while Disney is reportedly offering terms similar to its Charter agreement.
- Disney says a lapse would remove ESPN and ABC from YouTube TV and jeopardize access to NFL, college football, NBA and NHL programming.
- Disney accuses Google of exploiting its position, while YouTube says Disney’s proposed terms are costly and would raise prices, adding it will issue a $20 credit if channels stay off for an extended period.
- YouTube’s recent hiring of former Disney distribution executive Justin Connolly, who is being sued by Disney and has recused himself from these talks, adds a legal wrinkle to the negotiations.