DirecTV and Tegna End Blackout, Reach Carriage Deal
DirecTV and Tegna, a leading media company, have come to an agreement, putting an end to a programming blackout that left around 5 million customers across the United States without access to Tegna’s channels. The deal ensures that Tegna’s 64 owned stations in 51 Nielsen designated markets will be available once again on DirecTV satellite systems, DirecTV Stream, and U-verse cable.
The timing of the agreement is notable, with the NFL playoffs underway. Both parties were likely motivated by the anticipation of a surge in viewership during this popular sporting event. In a joint statement, DirecTV and Tegna expressed their gratitude for the patience of their subscribers and stated their commitment to offering reasonable prices that align with the value provided.
DirecTV, which was recently separated from AT&T in 2021 and is now 30%-owned by private equity firm TPG, boasts nearly 12 million subscribers in the U.S. The programming blackout affected approximately 40% of their customer base. Tegna, on the other hand, owns 66 stations in 52 markets, including major markets such as Dallas, Phoenix, and Denver.
This agreement comes after Tegna’s planned takeover by private equity firm Standard General was called off last spring due to regulatory concerns. Tegna, created in 2015 after separating its broadcast operations from Gannett’s print holdings, has continued to strengthen its position in the media industry.
Overall, the resolution of the carriage dispute between DirecTV and Tegna brings relief to millions of viewers who were left without access to their favorite programs. The return of Tegna’s channels will ensure that viewers can once again enjoy the quality programming they have come to expect.
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