Story perspectives

Judge Rules Disney Can't Block Sling TV's $1 ESPN Pass

11/20/2025

Summary

Story summary

A federal judge ruled against The Walt Disney Company (Disney)'s bid to block Sling TV's Day Pass subscriptions, allowing ESPN access for as low as $1 through November 30, 2025.
The judge found Disney failed to prove irreparable harm and that the contract lacks a minimum subscription length.
Disney's suit claims the passes violate the distribution agreement, but the definition of a subscriber includes users of the passes.

History

Historical Context

The U.S. Supreme Court's Paramount Decision in 1948 mandated the separation of film production and distribution, significantly impacting media dynamics. Recently, a federal judge's ruling allowed Sling TV's Day Pass subscriptions for $1, reflecting ongoing tensions in media rights. This echoes historical disputes over content access, highlighting the evolving landscape of media consumption and distribution agreements, particularly for major players like the Walt Disney Company.

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Story summary

A federal judge ruled against The Walt Disney Company (Disney)'s bid to block Sling TV's Day Pass subscriptions, allowing ESPN access for as low as $1 through November 30, 2025.
The judge found Disney failed to prove irreparable harm and that the contract lacks a minimum subscription length.
Disney's suit claims the passes violate the distribution agreement, but the definition of a subscriber includes users of the passes.

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