YouTube TV has now dropped the Univision network from its channel lineup due to a dispute with TelevisaUnivision. While there had been some hope that a new deal might be agreed, that wasn’t the case, resulting in the removal of the Spanish-language network.
Key Takeaways
- Despite efforts by TelevisaUnivision to keep the channel available, YouTube TV has dropped the Univision network from its lineup.
- TelevisaUnivision criticized YouTube TV for “abusing market power” and called the removal “deeply insensitive and offensive.”
- YouTube TV has defended its decision by citing unrealistic demands and Univision’s underperformance on its platform.
Earlier this month, TelevisaUnivision raised the alarm by warning YouTube TV subscribers that they may lose access to the network. At that time, TelevisaUnivision called on YouTube to “do the right thing” and keep the network available on its platform.
Soon after, TelevisaUnivision CEO Daniel Alegre issued an open letter accusing Google of “abusing its market power” while urging the company to ensure its subscribers retain access to its Spanish-language news, sports, and entertainment.
It is now clear that these attempts to avoid the channel being dropped have not worked. In response to the removal of Univision, TelevisaUnivision issued another statement claiming YouTube TV “refused” to “do the right thing” and that its actions are “tone-deaf and egregious.”
According to TelevisaUnivision, the timing of the removal is “deeply insensitive and offensive,” due to the channel being dropped in the middle of Hispanic Heritage Month.
“To add insult to injury, YouTube TV chose to take this step during Hispanic Heritage Month—an act that is deeply insensitive and offensive,” TelevisaUnivision said.
From its perspective, YouTube has explained it was unable to reach an agreement with TelevisaUnivision “that reflects the value of their content.” YouTube also stated TelevisaUnivision’s demands “aren’t supported by their performance on YouTube TV over the last 4 years.”
With the channel now dropped, and no extension in place (as is the case with the ongoing NBC dispute), it seems unlikely that YouTube TV subscribers can expect to regain access to Univision in the near future.
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