Wed May 21 00:50:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the text and a rewrite as a news article:

**Summary:**

Justin Connolly, a long-time Disney distribution executive, has left the company after more than 20 years. The departure comes at a critical time for Disney, as it prepares to launch its ESPN streaming service and negotiate a new carriage agreement with YouTube TV, among other important deals. Connolly’s departure is unexpected, as he had recently renewed his contract and participated in an ESPN media event. Sean Breen and Jimmy Zasowski will take over Connolly’s responsibilities on an interim basis. Speculation suggests Connolly might be headed to YouTube TV.

**News Article:**

**Disney Distribution Chief Justin Connolly Exits as Company Faces Crucial Negotiations**

LOS ANGELES – Disney is facing a significant leadership shakeup as veteran distribution executive Justin Connolly has departed the company after more than two decades, Deadline has learned. Connolly’s exit comes at a pivotal moment, with Disney gearing up for the launch of its highly anticipated ESPN streaming service and navigating critical carriage negotiations with major distributors, including YouTube TV.

Connolly, who most recently served as President of Platform Distribution, oversaw all third-party media sales efforts, affiliate-related business operations for Disney’s direct-to-consumer services and linear media networks, and content sales agreements. He reported to Alan Bergman and Dana Walden, Co-Chairmen of Disney Entertainment, and Jimmy Pitaro, Chairman of ESPN.

The departure, which occurred on Friday, was unexpected, particularly given that Connolly participated in ESPN’s media briefing just last week to promote the new streaming service. Sources indicate that Connolly had recently renewed his contract with Disney.

While Disney declined to comment on Connolly’s departure, industry speculation is swirling around YouTube TV as a potential destination for the seasoned executive. YouTube TV did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Connolly’s absence leaves a void as Disney enters complex negotiations with distributors regarding the ESPN streaming launch, aiming to balance integration of the new service with maintaining ESPN’s presence in traditional pay-TV bundles. He was also expected to play a key role in upcoming carriage discussions with YouTube TV, whose current contract with Disney expires later this year. With over 8 million subscribers, YouTube TV represents a significant distribution partner for Disney.

Connolly previously spearheaded negotiations with Charter Communications and DirecTV in 2023 and 2024, respectively. The 2023 Charter deal, which followed a 10-day blackout, included streaming benefits for Disney but also the loss of traditional carriage for networks like Freeform.

Sean Breen, EVP, Platform Distribution, and Jimmy Zasowski, EVP, Platform Distribution Strategy, will serve as interim leaders of the Platform Distribution group.

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