Disney sues Sling TV over its one-day cable passes
Disney sues Sling TV over its one-day cable passes, marking the latest clash in the streaming wars. The entertainment giant alleges that Sling violated licensing agreements by offering short-term streaming options that included Disney-owned channels like ESPN and Disney Channel.
What sparked the Disney vs. Sling TV lawsuit?
Earlier this month, Dish-owned Sling TV rolled out new one-day, weekend, and weeklong passes starting at just $5. These passes let viewers stream major networks—including ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN3, and Disney Channel—without committing to a monthly subscription.
Sling positioned the passes as a flexible option for fans wanting to catch a single sporting event, awards show, or special broadcast without paying for a full cable or live TV package.
Disney’s argument against Sling TV
According to reports from Deadline and Variety, Disney claims Sling TV’s new passes directly violate their licensing agreement. That deal reportedly requires Sling and Dish to only distribute Disney’s channels through monthly subscriptions, not short-term streaming bundles.
“Sling TV’s new offerings, which they made available without our knowledge or consent, violate the terms of our existing license agreement,” a Disney spokesperson said in a statement. Disney has formally requested Sling remove its channels from the short-term packages.
Sling TV pushes back
Sling TV has dismissed Disney’s claims, calling the lawsuit “meritless.” In its statement, Sling emphasized its mission to deliver TV that works on customers’ schedules and budgets:
“We will vigorously defend our right to bring customers a viewing experience that fits their lives, on their schedule and on their terms.”
Neither company has provided further comment as the dispute unfolds.
Why this case matters
The lawsuit highlights a bigger issue in streaming: how traditional media companies balance licensing restrictions with consumer demand for flexible, low-cost options. As viewers shift away from cable, streaming providers are experimenting with new pricing models—and legacy networks like Disney are watching closely.
This battle could set a precedent for how far streaming services can go in offering à la carte access to premium networks without violating contracts.
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