• Disney and YouTube TV have finalized a multi-year distribution agreement.
• The deal restores access to channels like ABC and ESPN for subscribers.
• YouTube TV offered a $20 credit to affected subscribers after the blackout.
• The agreement includes ESPN's new direct-to-consumer streaming service.
• This marks another chapter in ongoing licensing negotiations between platforms.

Disney and YouTube TV recently reached a multi-year distribution agreement to restore popular channels, including ABC and ESPN, following a two-week blackout that began on October 31. This agreement will allow YouTube TV subscribers to regain access to Disney's full lineup of channels, such as FX, NatGeo, and more, which had been unavailable during the negotiation period, according to HuffPost, ABC News, India Times, and India Times.

YouTube TV characterized the restoration as a pivotal resolution for subscribers, especially for sports fans, just in time for critical college football matchups. Executives from Disney emphasized the agreement's recognition of the value of their programming and promised subscribers increased flexibility and choice moving forward. Disney Entertainment Co-Chairmen noted, “This new agreement reflects our continued commitment to delivering exceptional entertainment,” according to HuffPost and ABC News.

The blackout was prompted by disputes over the distribution fees that Disney charges YouTube TV for access to its channels, which reportedly exceed $10 per month for the ESPN channel alone. As a result of the prolonged outage, YouTube TV announced a $20 credit for affected subscribers to be applied to their next billing cycle, demonstrating their commitment to customer satisfaction, as confirmed by India Times.

The new agreement not only reinstates access to existing channels but also includes ESPN’s new direct-to-consumer offering at no additional charge for YouTube TV subscribers. This arrangement allows YouTube to bundle offered services like the Disney+/Hulu package within its subscription options, enhancing value for its users, according to India Times and HuffPost.