Paramount-Owned Channels Face Blackout on YouTube TV Amidst Contract Dispute
Paramount Global and YouTube TV are embroiled in a contract dispute that could result in the removal of CBS, Comedy Central, and MTV from YouTube TV's lineup on Thursday night.
The conflict stems from disagreements over carriage fees, payments made by YouTube TV to Paramount for the right to broadcast its programming. Similar disputes have become prevalent in recent years, leading to content blackouts.
Paramount Global emphasized its record of successful partnership renewals and expressed its commitment to reaching an agreement with YouTube TV. However, the company noted that YouTube TV's demands are "one-sided" and "non-market."
YouTube TV, owned by Alphabet, acknowledged its efforts to negotiate a fair agreement and stated that it is exploring alternative viewing options, such as Paramount+. If the channels remain unavailable for an extended period, subscribers will receive an $8 credit.
This dispute comes after YouTube TV's 10% price increase in January to $82.99 per month. The video service has amassed over 8 million subscribers, highlighting the high stakes of this contract negotiation.
As the deadline approaches, viewers may face content disruptions if a resolution is not found. Similar conflicts have led to blackouts in the past, such as the 2024 blackout of Disney-owned channels during a dispute with DirecTV.