The reason ABC is not working on YouTube TV is due to a carriage dispute between Disney (which owns ABC) and Google (parent company of YouTube TV).
As of October 30, 2025, YouTube TV lost access to all Disney-owned channels, including ABC, ESPN, and other networks, because the two companies failed to reach a new distribution agreement. This blackout affects about 10 million viewers and coincides with the fall sports and election seasons.
The content distribution agreement between the two companies expired, and they have not been able to reach a new deal on licensing fees. As a result, Disney pulled ABC and over 20 other Disney-owned channels from the YouTube TV platform.
🛑 Channels Affected by the Blackout
The following major channels (and more) are currently unavailable on YouTube TV:
ABC (local stations)
ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU (and other ESPN networks)
FX, FXX
Disney Channel, Disney Junior, Disney XD
National Geographic
Freeform
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💡 What YouTube TV Subscribers Can Do
Wait for Resolution:
- Both Disney and YouTube TV have stated they are still negotiating, and it is possible the channels will be restored once an agreement is reached.
Get a Credit:
- YouTube TV has announced they will offer subscribers a $20 credit if the Disney channels remain unavailable for an “extended period of time.”
Alternative Ways to Watch ABC:
Antenna: Since ABC is a major broadcast network, you can likely watch your local ABC affiliate for free with a simple over-the-air antenna.
Hulu: Many ABC shows are available to stream the next day on the Disney-owned Hulu streaming service.
Other Live TV Services: You could temporarily switch to a competing live TV streaming service like Hulu + Live TV, Fubo, or Sling TV (which may have some of the affected channels).
The removal of channels like ABC due to carriage disputes is a recurring issue in the television industry, and typically the blackout lasts until a new financial agreement is reached.
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