Disney, DirecTV fail to reach distribution deal, subscribers lose access

Walt Disney and satellite TV provider DirecTV failed to reach a new distribution deal for ESPN, ABC and other Disney-owned networks, the companies said on Sunday, resulting in more than 11 million DirecTV subscribers losing access to those networks.

The programming blackout at the expiry of the prior deal on Sunday took effect days before the National Football League kicks off its season on Thursday, and ahead of ABC News’ scheduled presidential debate on Sept. 10.