Short answer: ABC is currently unavailable on YouTube TV due to a carriage dispute, and there isn’t a fixed “back date” set by Disney or YouTube yet. The situation is evolving as negotiations continue, with some parties proposing interim restoration for Election Day coverage but not yet reaching a lasting agreement. What’s happening
- Disney’s ABC and ESPN networks have been dark on YouTube TV since the blackout began, as Disney and YouTube TV negotiate a new distribution deal. This affects live events like football and election-night coverage on ABC and ESPN channels [source coverage of the dispute and blackout details].
- The companies have proposed various arrangements. Disney asked for ABC to be restored for Election Day to serve public information needs, while Google/YouTube TV has proposed alternatives (such as restoring ABC and ESPN more broadly if Disney agrees to different terms or temporarily livestreams ABC content) but has not yet agreed to a permanent restoration. The latest reporting indicates no final agreement and continued blackout as of early November 2025 [news coverage of proposals and responses].
What to watch for
- Public updates from Disney, YouTube TV, and major outlet coverage (Deadline, Reuters, USA Today, LA Times, and others) are the best sources for the latest restoration timeline and any new agreement terms.
- If you rely on ABC for Election Night or other live programming, you can consider alternatives between now and a potential restoration, such as:
- Watching ABC content through other platforms that carry the network (e.g., Hulu with Live TV, if available in your region).
- Accessing ABC’s streaming options directly via ABC's or Disney’s apps for election-night coverage, where offered.
- Tuning into other news networks for the same live events and updates.
Bottom line
- There is no confirmed date for ABC’s return to YouTube TV yet; the blackout persists while negotiations continue. If you want the latest, check trusted trade and mainstream outlets for the most recent statements and any signed agreement.
