Why does the ESPN app say I am not authorized to view this content?
Answer
An ESPN “not authorized” message usually means the TV provider or ESPN account sign-in expired, or the subscription does not include that event or channel.
Follow these steps
Confirm which subscription unlocks ESPN
Decide whether ESPN should unlock via a cable or live-TV provider login, or via an ESPN direct subscription, then use that path only.
You should see: You know which account must be signed in.
Sign out and sign back into ESPN
In the ESPN app account or provider settings, sign out, force-close the app, reopen it, and sign in again with the correct provider or ESPN credentials.
You should see: The app shows an active subscription or provider connection.
Retry the same video or channel
Open the same content again after sign-in. If a specific event is blacked out, try a regular live channel you know your plan includes.
You should see: Video plays, or only restricted events remain blocked.
Check other apps on the same provider
If another TV-provider app also says you are signed out, refresh that provider login first, then return to ESPN.
You should see: Provider authentication is restored across apps, or the problem is isolated to ESPN.
Update the app or reinstall if authorization still fails
Update ESPN from the official app store, or uninstall and reinstall it, then sign in once more.
You should see: Authorization succeeds after a clean app install, or support must check the subscription.
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Extra tips
What to look for: Messages such as not authorized to view this content, unable to play video, or signed out of this device.
Before you change anything: Confirm whether you subscribe through a cable/streaming TV provider or directly through ESPN. Have provider login details ready. Note whether other provider apps also say signed out. Avoid entering passwords on lookalike phishing pages.