It's that time again, fellow YouTube TV subscribers. Another day, another instance of two giant corporations holding consumers hostage over carriage fees. This time, it's Disney that's going to war with YouTube TV, and it could ultimately end with the live TV streaming service losing out on Disney, ESPN, ABC and more popular channels that are a must for most consumers.
Here's the rundown: On Oct. 30, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. ET, the distribution deal between Disney, which owns ESPN, ABC and numerous other networks, will end. At that point, YouTube TV will no longer air any Disney-owned networks until a new deal is struck.
Malcolm is Tom's Guide's resident expert on live TV streaming services, having tested every single one for himself.
It might be time to jump ship for Hulu with Live TV
Here's the thing: I don't care which company is at fault. I want the best channel selection for the most affordable price. And while YouTube's $20 credit is a fair offer, it won't do me any good if I still have to pay elsewhere to get the Disney-owned channels that I want to watch. So I'm strongly considering switching to Hulu with Live TV.
I'm fully aware that this is exactly what Disney is hoping for, or at least, certainly won't upset the House of Mouse. But ultimately, there are three reasons why I'm about ready to make the switch, and only one of them has to do with this most recent carriage dispute.
The biggest reason I'm tempted to make the switch is that right now, you can get Hulu with Live TV for just $64.99 a month for your first three months. That's $18 a month less than the $82.99 list price for YouTube TV, and still $8 cheaper than YouTube TV's current introductory offer, which is $10 off a month for your first three months of YouTube TV.
Plus, Hulu includes ESPN Unlimited, Disney Plus (with ads) and Hulu (with ads). So not only would I pay less for my live TV service by making the switch, I'd save money on some of the best streaming services too.
Now, it's important to note that Hulu with Live TV isn't perfect. I've tested all the best live TV streaming services, and while I liked Hulu a lot, it missed out on some popular channels and didn't have the best app for streaming live TV. I preferred YouTube TV, which is why it's currently our pick for the best cable TV alternative. And once the three-month promotional period ends, Hulu with Live TV costs $89.99, which is more than the $82.99 you need to shell out for YouTube TV.
Still, saving $18 a month isn't insignificant, and I'd never have to worry about ESPN going away. I haven't made a final decision yet, but at this point, I'm strongly considering leaving YouTube TV for Hulu with Live TV before the latter's current promotion ends on Nov. 5, 2025.
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