EchoStar Corp (SATS) announced it will sell its video distribution business, including DISH TV and Sling TV, to DirecTV. The transaction will allow EchoStar to focus on expanding its 5G Open RAN network, which will give U.S. wireless consumers more choices and drive innovation.
DirecTV and Disney failed to reach an agreement to temporarily restore ABC News during the presidential debate, highlighting the ongoing contract dispute between the two companies. Despite Disney’s offer to provide access to ABC News for free during the debate, DirecTV’s counteroffer for an extension until September 17 was rejected. The dispute, which began on September 1, revolves around distribution terms and fees for Disney-owned channels, including ABC and ESPN, impacting DirecTV subscribers.
DirecTV has filed a complaint with the FCC against Disney, accusing them of negotiating in bad faith during a carriage dispute. This dispute has resulted in a blackout of Disney channels for DirecTV subscribers, affecting access to popular content like ESPN and ABC. The blackout has impacted millions of subscribers during significant events like college football and the U.S. Open, raising concerns about potential disruption to the upcoming presidential debate. While DirecTV accuses Disney of anticompetitive practices, Disney argues for a standard release of claims following negotiations.
A disagreement over distribution fees between Disney and DirecTV has resulted in a programming blackout for over 11 million subscribers. The dispute stems from DirecTV’s desire to offer smaller, more affordable packages, including tiers without ESPN, which Disney has resisted. This blackout affects access to ESPN, ABC, and other Disney-owned networks, impacting millions of viewers just before the NFL season kickoff and the scheduled presidential debate on ABC News.
DirecTV, owned by AT&T and TPG Capital, is in contract renewal talks with Disney that could significantly alter the pay-TV industry. DirecTV aims to offer smaller, genre-specific packages to customers, while Disney is open to sports-specific packages and negotiating lower subscriber guarantees. The outcome of these negotiations could impact the availability of channels like ABC and ESPN, potentially leading to blackouts if no agreement is reached.
Twenty years after the infamous incident where Randy Johnson’s fastball collided with a bird, the MLB legend is now using satellite dishes to create bird sanctuaries. The campaign, in partnership with DirecTV, aims to provide new homes for birds and make amends for Johnson’s past actions. The initiative has received positive feedback from fans who appreciate Johnson’s humorous approach to addressing the incident.
DIRECTV is enhancing its streaming offerings with the addition of seven new channels through partnerships with Cineverse Corp. and Scripps Networks. Cineverse’s initial contribution includes the popular family programming channel , while Scripps Networks brings Court TV and Scripps News. DIRECTV plans to expand its Cineverse portfolio in the coming months. These new channels join a growing streaming library that now boasts nearly 4,000 hours of on-demand content across a diverse range of genres. DIRECTV remains committed to providing exceptional streaming experiences for its customers, offering a vast selection of sports, entertainment, and now, even more specialized channels to cater to diverse interests.
DIRECTV is continuing to expand its streaming lineup, adding seven new channels through licensing agreements with Cineverse Corp. and Scripps Networks. Popular channels from Cineverse include The Bob Ross Channel, Comedy Dynamics, Dove Channel, and Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan, while Scripps Networks adds Court TV and Scripps News to the DIRECTV lineup. DIRECTV highlights that these new channels will provide customers with a wider variety of genres and content options, appealing to their interests and entertainment preferences.
