How to watch ABC: Live stream sports, presidential debate, and more

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One of the original Big 5 networks, ABC has maintained its cultural hold on television and become a hub for sports, news, and entertainment over the years. But actually being able to watch it has proven a bit tricky, so we've put together everything you need to know about how to watch ABC, including live streaming options.

ABC is a staple of the TV scene, as known for its marquee sports events as it is for its original dramas and comedies. The network carries Grey's Anatomy, 9-1-1, Abbott Elementary, and much more, in addition to NBA, NFL, NHL, and WNBA coverage. Plus, you can find several popular awards shows here, including the Oscars and the upcoming Emmys. The network is also a fixture in the news scene, offering everything from Good Morning America to 20/20. This year, ABC will also host the scheduled fall presidential debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump.

ABC is included in most major cable plans, but it was recently pulled from DirecTV following a licensing dispute with Disney (if this is the case for you, you might want to check out our guide on how to watch ESPN, too). Fortunately, there are several live TV services you can use to supplement the blackout or replace your cable packages altogether.

Whether you've recently lost ABC in your cable lineup or you're just a cord-cutter hoping to watch the presidential debate, we've got you covered. Keep reading to learn how to watch ABC from anywhere.

How to watch ABC in the US

If you don't have cable or recently lost ABC in your TV package, you don't need to worry. There are a few different easy ways to watch the network. You can get your local ABC affiliate over the air in some areas using an antenna. If this is the case, try one like the very affordable Channel Master Flatenna at Amazon, which we highlight as the best overall antenna in our best indoor TV antenna guide.

You can also catch the network through live TV packages, like Sling TV or Fubo. These month-to-month live TV services are low-commitment cable alternatives that can give you instant access to your favorite channels.

At $40 a month, Sling TV will be the cheapest option today. You'll need to opt for Sling's Blue plan to access local channels like ABC. It's important to remember that local channel coverage and availability vary by region on Sling, so you should double-check to make sure you can access the network in your area before subscribing. New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Philadelphia are among some of the regions that get ABC through Sling. If you do opt for Sling, you can usually get about half off your first month.

Another top live TV package is Fubo. The streaming service carries broad ABC coverage and over 180 other channels. It's a comprehensive live TV alternative with a particularly robust sports offering. First-time customers can get a one-week free trial. Subscriptions cost $79.99 per month, but subscribers can get their first month for just $49.99.

How to watch ABC from anywhere

There's a simple fix for those traveling away from home who still want to keep up with their streaming subscriptions: VPNs. Short for virtual private networks, VPNs are handy tech tools that allow people to change their device's virtual location on a temporary basis, meaning that they can use their usual websites and apps from almost anywhere in the world.

Our go-to recommendation is ExpressVPN, a top-rated option with a 30-day money-back guarantee. For more information, you can check out our ExpressVPN review and see below for highlights.

When is the Presidential Debate?

The second 2024 presidential debate, and the first between Democratic nominee Kamala Harris and Republican nominee Donald Trump, will be held on Tuesday, September 10, at 9 p.m. ET. The debate will air on ABC and be moderated by ABC journalists, although other major networks will also carry broadcasts.

For more information on the above streaming services and streaming options, make sure to check out our guide to the best streaming deals and bundles and our breakdown of the best sports streaming services.

Note: The use of VPNs is illegal in certain countries, and using VPNs to access region-locked streaming content might constitute a breach of the terms of use for certain services. Insider does not endorse or condone the illegal use of VPNs.