ATLANTA — YouTube users who use the YouTube streaming service who lost access to WSB-TV, WSB, ABC and ESPN stations due to a dispute between Disney and YouTube won’t have to wait much longer to see them again after the companies reached a deal.
Disney’s contract with YouTube TV expired Friday and the companies were not able to reach an agreement before their deadline.
“As you may already be aware, we are regularly in negotiations with distribution partners that offer our networks to their customers,” Disney officials said. “If we are unable to reach fair agreements, you could lose some of your favorite networks.”
On Sunday, however, YouTube TV and Disney were able to reach an agreement.
We are pleased to announce that after a brief disruption, we have reached a new distribution agreement with Google’s YouTube TV for continued carriage of our portfolio of networks. We appreciate Google’s collaboration to reach fair terms that are consistent with the market, and we’re thrilled that our robust lineup of live sports and news plus kids, family and general entertainment programming is in the process of being restored to YouTube TV subscribers across the country.
— John L. Rouse, Executive Vice President, ABC Affiliate Relations and Marketing
YouTube spokespeople said they have already started restoring access to Disney networks, including local ABC stations like WSB-TV.
In a statement, they also stated they would be offering subscribers a discount for the disruption in services.
“As we promised a $15 discount while the Disney content remained off platform, we will still honor a one-time credit for all impacted members. For active members who have not yet received that $15 discount on their monthly bill, you will automatically receive a one-time credit on your next bill with no action needed,” the statement read.
“We apologize for the disruption and appreciate your patience as we continued to negotiate on your behalf. We also value Disney’s partnership and willingness to work towards an agreement,” the statement continued.
You can learn more about the dispute HERE.
WSB-TV was not involved in any of the negotiations that have or will be held.