Disney owned channels are returning to YouTube TV after the companies agreed to a new multi year distribution agreement, and subscribers should see affected live channels and prior Library recordings restore progressively. YouTube TV stated that channels including ABC, ESPN and FX should return over the course of the day, alongside recordings that were previously available in a subscriber’s Library.
What is back on YouTube TV
The restored lineup includes major Disney owned networks and brands that were impacted during the contract blackout, including ABC and ESPN. Reporting on the agreement also cites the return of additional Disney owned channels such as FX and National Geographic. Disney described the outcome as a multi year distribution agreement that continues carriage of its network portfolio on the live TV service.
What subscribers should expect next
YouTube TV said restoration should occur over the course of the day, which can mean channels return at different times depending on market and device refresh cycles. YouTube TV also said previously recorded programs should reappear as part of the restoration process for affected channels and networks. A Google support notice associated with the dispute also references the continuation of Disney content carriage and the return of Library recordings that were previously available.
What led to the blackout
The blackout began after the prior carriage agreement expired in late October 2025, removing Disney owned channels from YouTube TV until a renewal was reached. During the dispute, YouTube TV publicly argued that Disney sought terms that would raise customer prices, while Disney maintained that its programming carries significant value in distribution negotiations. Multiple outlets reported the dispute affected about 10 million YouTube TV customers, based on publicly cited subscriber estimates at the time of the blackout.
Neither company published full commercial terms for the renewed agreement, and the pricing structure has not been publicly detailed in official statements. However, reporting on Disney’s announcement and deal coverage indicates the agreement includes Disney’s linear portfolio and references ESPN’s planned direct to consumer offering being made available through YouTube TV, along with potential bundling options involving Disney streaming services in select YouTube offerings. YouTube TV also referenced a subscriber compensation approach during the blackout period, stating it would offer a $20 credit if Disney content remained unavailable for an extended period.
