Disney CEO Bob Iger has defended his company’s stance in the dispute over distribution fees with Google-owned YouTube TV, which has left 10 million customers without access to its channels for 14 days.
Google disputes Disney’s demands, citing ratings declines at ABC and other channels. The two sides are working on a new deal, but it’s unclear when they will reach an agreement.
Disney’s offer proposes similar terms to those with other pay-TV providers, but Google has been hesitant to accept. Iger says the proposed deal is “equal to or better than” what others have agreed to.
The dispute highlights tensions between pay-TV distributors and programmers as streaming services grow in popularity. Distributors are trying to boost fees to offset losses of pay-TV customers, while programmers like Disney want higher rates to compensate for the shift.
ESPN is the most expensive basic cable channel, costing $10 a month per subscriber home. ABC also comes with a premium due to its sports programming.
YouTube TV customers are paying $82.99 a month for a package of channels that was initially offered at $35. Distributors like YouTube TV are trying to hold down prices, but the cost of carrying broadcast channels and sports networks has increased significantly due to new TV rights deals.
The dispute is part of a larger trend as pay-TV subscribers continue to cut the cord or switch to smaller streaming bundles. Disney’s weaker theatrical results affected its fourth-quarter earnings, which were influenced by its cruise line segment.
Source: https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/business/story/2025-11-13/disney-youtube-tv-blackout-bob-iger-defends-offer-as-blackout-continues