DirecTV subscribers experienced a blackout on Sunday night, losing access to ESPN, Disney Channel, FX, and other networks as negotiations between DirecTV and Disney stalled. The previous five-year contract expired on September 1, and as a result, Disney’s content was removed from DirecTV’s services, including satellite and U-Verse TV. This blackout comes at a critical time for sports fans, coinciding with the start of the college football season and the upcoming NFL games.
With more than 11 million pay-TV subscribers no longer able to watch ESPN and ESPN2, viewers will need to explore alternative streaming options to access Disney’s channels. The channels affected include ESPN Deportes, ESPNU, ESPN News, ACC Network, SEC Network, Disney Channel, Disney Junior, Disney XD, FX, FX Movie Channel, FXX, Freeform, and National Geographic channels.
Several live TV streaming services provide access to ESPN and other Disney-owned channels. Sling TV’s Orange plan offers 34 channels, including ESPN, for $20 in the first month and $40 thereafter. YouTube TV allows streaming of major broadcasts and cable networks, including ESPN, with a promotional rate of $64.99 a month for the first four months, increasing to $72.99 after that.
ESPN+ is another option, featuring unique shows and sporting events, with plans starting at $10.99 a month, and bundles with Hulu and Disney+ available for $14.99. Fubo also carries ESPN, among other channels, and includes Cloud DVR recording for $79.99 monthly. Meanwhile, Hulu + Live TV provides over 90 channels, including ESPN, along with access to ESPN+ and Disney+ for a monthly fee of $76.99.