Mon Sep 16 15:48:11 UTC 2024: ## Disney and DirecTV End Blackout, Offering Subscribers More Choice
**Dallas, TX -** After a two-week blackout that impacted millions of viewers during major sporting events and the first presidential debate, Disney and DirecTV have reached an agreement to restore service to all of Disney’s channels, including ESPN and ABC. The deal comes just in time for the peak of college and professional football seasons.
The blackout began on September 1st when licensing renewal talks between the two companies broke down. A key sticking point was DirecTV’s desire for greater flexibility in its channel offerings, mirroring the options available through streaming services. Traditionally, cable providers have been required to offer all channels from a company, regardless of subscriber interest.
This new agreement allows DirecTV customers to choose more specialized packages, such as sports or family programming. The agreement also includes the ability to add Disney’s streaming services – Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ – to their packages.
“Through this first-of-its-kind collaboration, DirecTV and Disney are giving customers the ability to tailor their video experience through more flexible options,” the companies said in a joint statement.
The blackout had a significant impact on both companies. DirecTV lost customers during the two weeks without Disney channels, and the timing of the dispute coincided with major sporting events, including the US Open, college football games, the season premiere of “Monday Night Football,” and the first presidential debate.
The deal marks a shift in the TV industry, allowing cable providers to offer more tailored options to compete with the growing popularity of streaming services. The agreement is expected to benefit both companies as they seek to retain subscribers in a rapidly changing media landscape.
First Piper 