On Sunday night, DirecTV subscribers experienced a blackout of several major networks, including ESPN, Disney Channel, FX, and others. This disruption occurred after DirecTV and Disney were unable to finalize a new contract following the expiration of a five-year agreement on September 1. The timing of the blackout is particularly impactful as it coincides with the beginning of the college football season and the upcoming NFL games.
As long as the blackout persists, DirecTV customers will need to explore alternative live TV streaming services to access ESPN and other Disney-owned networks.
The blackout leaves over 11 million pay-TV subscribers without access to ESPN and ESPN2, a significant loss as college and professional football seasons kick off. In addition to ESPN, channels that went dark include ESPNU, ESPN Deportes, ESPN News, ACC Network, SEC Network, Disney Channel, Disney Junior, Disney XD, FX, FX Movie Channel, FXX, Freeform, and National Geographic networks.
For those looking to watch ESPN and other Disney channels without DirecTV, there are several streaming alternatives available:
Sling TV offers an Orange plan that includes 34 channels, featuring ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN3, and the Disney Channel. First-month subscriptions are available for $20, with a recurring cost of $40 per month thereafter.
YouTube TV also provides access to major broadcast and cable networks including ESPN. New users can initiate the service with a free trial, costing $64.99 per month for the first four months, then increasing to $72.99 monthly.
ESPN+ is another option, although it differs from traditional TV services. This streaming service offers access to various shows and events owned by ESPN. Monthly plans start at $10.99, with bundle options that include Hulu and Disney+ available for $14.99.
Fubo provides access to ESPN and similar channels, offering a Cloud DVR feature for recording shows, with a monthly subscription fee of $79.99.
Hulu + Live TV combines over 90 channels, including ESPN, along with access to both ESPN+ and Disney+, for a monthly fee of $76.99.