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Disney–YouTube TV Blackout Enters Third Week as CEOs Step In and ABC Fees Hold Up a Deal

The remaining divide centers on ABC rates plus contract terms that could ripple across other distributors through MFN or growth triggers.

Overview

  • The outage began October 30 and now stretches into a third week for roughly 10 million YouTube TV subscribers.
  • Disney’s Bob Iger and Google’s Sundar Pichai are more directly involved, with reports of renewed momentum even as Disney’s CFO says the company is prepared for a prolonged fight.
  • Multiple outlets report broad alignment on ESPN pricing, though one source disputes full agreement, while ABC fees and bundled non‑sports channels remain the primary sticking points.
  • YouTube TV is seeking size‑based protections that would lower rates once it surpasses rival distributors, a structure Disney fears could cascade across existing deals through MFN clauses.
  • Morgan Stanley pegs Disney’s losses at about $4.3 million per day as viewers miss two Monday Night Football games and two college football Saturdays, and YouTube TV offers a one‑time $20 credit.