Disney and Optimum reach multi-year carriage agreement

The Walt Disney Company and Optimum have entered into a multi-year distribution agreement, resolving potential carriage disputes. Under the new terms, Optimum will continue to carry ABC-owned stations, ESPN networks, the NFL Network, the RedZone channel, and Disney’s kids and family channels, including Freeform, FX, and National Geographic.

A key component of the deal is that Optimum TV subscribers will receive access to ESPN Unlimited at no additional cost. The agreement also expands rights for Optimum customers to purchase Disney’s streaming services. This deal follows recent carriage renewals between Disney and other distributors such as YouTube TV and Comcast.

The announcement coincides with upcoming price increases for ESPN streaming tiers. Starting September 17, the cost of ESPN Select will rise to $13.99 per month, while ESPN Unlimited will increase to $31.99 per month. These changes will also affect various Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN bundles.