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Disney fails to stop YouTube from hiring veteran Connolly

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on June 4, 2025

1 min read

· Last updated: January 23, 2026

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Disney fails to stop YouTube from hiring veteran Connolly
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(Reuters) - A judge in Los Angeles on Wednesday denied Walt Disney's request for a preliminary injunction and a temporary restraining order aimed at preventing long-time executive Justin Connolly from

Disney's Legal Efforts Fail to Block YouTube's Hire of Connolly

(Reuters) - A judge in Los Angeles on Wednesday denied Walt Disney's request for a preliminary injunction and a temporary restraining order aimed at preventing long-time executive Justin Connolly from joining Alphabet's YouTube.

Disney filed a lawsuit against YouTube in a state court in Los Angeles last month to stop the appointment, alleging breach of contract, unfair competition and interference with a contractual relationship.

It sought a preliminary and permanent injunction to halt Connolly's from further breaching the contract.

Los Angeles Superior Court Judge James Chalfant denied Disney's request to stop Connolly's move.

"We are disappointed in today's ruling, but will continue to pursue our legal remedies," a Disney spokesperson told Reuters, while YouTube had no comment.

Connolly is set to join YouTube as its global head of media and sports to manage the platform's relationships with major media companies as well as take charge of the company's growing live-sports portfolio, Reuters had reported in May.

(Reporting by Juby Babu in Mexico City; Editing by Alan Barona)

Key Takeaways

  • Disney's legal efforts to block Connolly's hiring by YouTube failed.
  • The court denied Disney's request for an injunction.
  • Disney alleges breach of contract and unfair competition.
  • Connolly will lead YouTube's media and sports division.
  • YouTube has not commented on the court's decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Disney's request regarding Justin Connolly?
Disney requested a preliminary injunction and a temporary restraining order to prevent Justin Connolly from joining YouTube.
What was the outcome of the court ruling?
Los Angeles Superior Court Judge James Chalfant denied Disney's request to stop Connolly's move to YouTube.
What reasons did Disney cite in its lawsuit?
Disney alleged breach of contract, unfair competition, and interference with contractual relations in its lawsuit against YouTube.
What position will Justin Connolly hold at YouTube?
Justin Connolly is set to become YouTube's global head of media and sports, managing relationships with major media companies.
What was Disney's response to the court's decision?
A Disney spokesperson expressed disappointment in the ruling but stated that the company would continue to pursue its legal remedies.

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