Over Labor Day weekend, greater than 10 million DirecTV and U-Verse prospects skilled a blackout of ESPN and different Disney-owned channels equivalent to ABC. The channels went off the air proper earlier than the LSU-USC school soccer recreation and throughout the US Open tennis event. Amid a latest licensing deal disconnect, DirecTV misplaced its rights to hold Disney programming. With large occasions just like the US Open in play and tentpole sports activities like school soccer and the NFL beginning up, ESPN is an important viewing platform. How can followers keep within the loop?
How can I nonetheless watch ESPN with the Disney-DirecTV blackout?
If you do not have cable entry to ESPN proper now, you will get on the spot entry to ESPN content material via quite a lot of providers together with Hulu + Dwell TV, Fubo, and Sling.
What number of channels are affected by the Disney-DirecTV blackout?
The battle impacts ESPN networks, Disney-branded channels, Freeform, FX networks, and Nationwide Geographic channels.
How large of an influence will this blackout have?
The worth of Disney’s portfolio is indeniable as greater than 90% of DirecTV households watched its linear programming each month final yr. Virtually all linear content material is unique to or premieres on Disney’s networks (like ESPN), equivalent to reside sports activities and occasions. If the disconnect lingers via September, viewers might miss extra upcoming occasions, together with the primary Harris-Trump presidential debate and the 2024 Emmy Awards.
Can I get a refund amid the dispute?
DirecTV is providing prospects $20 credit, as a comfort. Subscribers can apply for the credit score on an upcoming invoice.
How can I get extra info?
For extra info and alternate methods to entry ESPN content material, followers can go to KeepMyESPN.com. Try the ESPN assist hub for extra help.