The dispute between Disney (ABC, ESPN) and YouTube TV has entered its second week, leaving millions of subscribers without access to key sports and entertainment channels. While negotiations continue, viewers face a choice: return to cable, or find alternatives.
This isn’t just about missing games; it’s a symptom of the ongoing tension between traditional media companies and streaming services. Disney is pushing for higher fees to compensate for declining cable revenue, while YouTube TV aims to keep costs competitive. The result is a stalemate that impacts consumers.
Fortunately, several temporary workarounds exist for cord-cutters who want to avoid losing access to live sports, including NFL, NBA, and college basketball. Here’s a breakdown of five options:
Sling TV: The Budget Choice
Sling Orange offers a Day Pass ($5) or Weekend Pass ($10) that includes ESPN for short-term access. It’s the cheapest option but lacks ABC.
ESPN Unlimited: Sports-Focused
ESPN Unlimited provides access to all ESPN networks for $30 per month. It’s ideal if your priority is sports content, but won’t get you ABC.
Fubo Sports: A More Complete Solution
Fubo Sports, at $46 after a free trial, carries both ABC and ESPN. It’s a solid pick for comprehensive coverage, though the price jumps after the first month.
DirecTV MySports: High-End Coverage
DirecTV MySports offers access to ESPN networks (and ABC in some regions) for $70 per month. It’s pricier but provides a wider range of channels.
Hulu + Live TV: The All-Rounder
Hulu + Live TV currently has a promotional offer at $65 per month, including both ABC and ESPN. After the trial, the price increases, but it remains a robust package with additional streaming content.
Key takeaway: Most of these services are designed as temporary fixes. Set reminders to cancel before the monthly price kicks in, or you may end up paying more than you intended.
The Disney-YouTube TV standoff underscores the volatile nature of streaming negotiations. Consumers are caught in the middle, forced to adapt quickly as media companies jockey for position. For now, these alternatives offer a lifeline, but the long-term solution remains uncertain.
