Disney pulls ABC, ESPN and other channels from DirecTV in carriage standoff

Disney has removed its ABC stations, ESPN, and other cable networks from DirecTV’s lineup due to a failed distribution deal. This has left millions of sports fans without access to these channels just as the college football and NFL seasons are beginning. The blackout occurred ahead of the kickoff between the USC Trojans and LSU Tigers, in the middle of the US Open tennis tournament, and right before the NFL season opener. Both companies have blamed each other for the standoff, with Disney stating that DirecTV undervalues its channels and programs, while DirecTV accuses Disney of seeking unreasonable discounts.