YouTube TV Disney Blackout: Jeopardy! & More - What's Happening?

The Ongoing Dispute Between YouTube TV and Disney

For almost two weeks, a disagreement has persisted between Google, the parent company of YouTube TV, and Disney. This conflict originated from a failure to establish a consensus regarding a streaming agreement.

Consequently, approximately 10 million YouTube TV subscribers, including myself, have been without access to Disney-owned television networks – encompassing around 20 channels such as ABC and ESPN – for a period exceeding twelve days.

Impact on Viewers

Sports fans have been identified as particularly affected by this situation, as noted by Business Insider. Publications like The New York Times and Engadget are now providing guidance to viewers seeking to watch important college football games.

However, the media coverage has largely overlooked a segment of viewers who are experiencing frustration in silence, while others are exploring trial subscriptions to services like Fubo to continue watching programs like Monday Night Football.

I am among those affected. My ability to watch “Jeopardy!” has been disrupted, as the program broadcasts on ABC.

The Disruption to Daily Routine

“Jeopardy!” has been a consistent part of my evening schedule. I complete my work, prepare dinner, and then watch “Jeopardy!”. Therefore, I was surprised to discover in early November that the latest episode hadn’t been recorded on YouTube TV.

In fact, recordings of “Jeopardy!” spanning several months had disappeared! This is deeply concerning. I am now unaware of who the current “Jeopardy!” champion is, or if Ken Jennings has been sporting any noteworthy ties.

Statements from Both Companies

YouTube TV and Disney have been engaged in this public dispute for several weeks. On October 23rd, YouTube TV released a statement asserting that they had been negotiating in good faith with Disney.

However, they claim Disney is proposing financial terms that would increase prices for YouTube TV subscribers, ultimately benefiting Disney’s own live TV offerings. Disney, conversely, maintains that YouTube TV is unwilling to pay equitable rates for their channels.

Compensation and Financial Implications

On Sunday, YouTube TV announced a $20 credit for subscribers – requiring manual redemption – as compensation for the nearly two-week blackout of Disney channels.

While I appreciate this gesture from Google, a company valued at $3.46 trillion, it’s worth noting that a similar blackout in 2021, lasting only one day, resulted in a $15 credit. Furthermore, YouTube TV’s monthly cost was almost $20 lower at that time.

Morgan Stanley estimates that Disney is losing approximately $60 million over the two-week period – equating to $4.3 million per day – due to the lack of an agreement with YouTube TV.

Disney may be offsetting these losses through the recently launched ESPN Unlimited subscription, providing access to all ESPN content for $30 per month. It is important to note, however, that ESPN Unlimited does not include “Jeopardy!,” America’s Favorite Quiz Show®.

Account Sharing and Future Concerns

Many viewers are considering alternative streaming services. However, I, along with five others, share a single YouTube TV account, which provides a significant cost benefit.

I am concerned that YouTube TV might follow Netflix’s example and restrict account sharing.

Awaiting Resolution

When will this frustrating situation be resolved? When will I be able to resume critiquing the illogical Daily Double wagers made by contestants? When will I be reminded of my lack of knowledge regarding opera?

The responsibility for a resolution now rests with Disney.