"Last year, in October, Google announced it was in negotiations with Disney to keep networks like ABC and ESPN on YouTube TV. As the two parties failed to reach an agreement before the then-existing licensing deal expired, a Disney media blackout ensued. Although both corporations were predicted to lose millions during the blackout, the situation wasn't resolved until mid-November. Now we're starting to learn just how big a financial impact that blackout had on Disney."
"Live sports are one of YouTube TV's biggest draws, with Disney's sports broadcasting arm, ESPN, playing one of the biggest roles in that offering. As it turns out, being off air on YouTube TV had a significant impact on ESPN's bottom line. According to Cord Cutters News, ESPN lost over $110 million in operational income during its fiscal year-end quarter for 2025 due to the 15-day blackout."
Google and Disney failed to reach a licensing agreement before the previous deal expired, triggering a multi-week blackout that removed ABC and ESPN from YouTube TV. The blackout lasted 15 days and ended with a distribution agreement in November. Live sports drive YouTube TV subscriptions, and ESPN's absence caused significant revenue losses. Cord Cutters News reports ESPN lost over $110 million in operational income during its fiscal year-end quarter. Analysts initially estimated losses of about $4.3 million per day, but ESPN actually lost more than $7 million daily, causing a 23% drop in operating income to $191 million.
Read at Android Authority
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