Sinclair Broadcast Group today unveiled a significant distribution deal with FOX Television Stations, set to bring Sinclair’s free over-the-air network, TBD TV, to several of FOX’s top market affiliates starting January 15, 2025. This strategic partnership will see TBD TV expand its audience by an additional 22 million TV households across key markets, including the three largest Designated Market Areas (DMAs) in the U.S.
TBD TV, known for its focus on big comedy and big stars, will now be accessible in:
- New York on WNYW Channel 5.4
- Los Angeles on KTTV Channel 11.3
- Chicago on WFLD Channel 32.4
- Atlanta on WAGA Channel 5.4
- Phoenix on KSAZ Channel 10.4
Lee Schlazer, Senior Vice President of Distribution at Sinclair, expressed enthusiasm about the deal, stating, “We are excited to launch TBD TV on 5 powerhouse FOX-owned television stations, including the top three DMAs in the US. This partnership greatly expands TBD TV’s reach while securing big-4 network row positions and maintaining Sinclair’s strategic initiative of growing coverage in the largest DMAs. TBD TV is a great fit with FOX’s younger skewing audience, as TBD TV is the second youngest multicast network.”
One of the highlights for viewers in New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago will be the daily broadcast of “Saturday Night Live,” a move that capitalizes on the show’s significant popularity in these markets, where it over-delivers the NBC national average by 40%, 22%, and 72% respectively.
TBD TV’s programming strategy has paid off, with the network witnessing a steady rise in viewership thanks to its investment in iconic comedy franchises. The network’s performance peaked in November, marking its highest ratings month to date with a remarkable 114% year-over-year increase in Total Day ratings for the 25-54 demographic.
This agreement not only broadens TBD TV’s audience but also aligns with Sinclair’s vision to enhance its network’s distribution and channel positioning, ensuring it remains adjacent to all five major broadcast networks into 2025 and beyond.
This move is expected to further solidify TBD TV’s standing in the crowded landscape of multicast networks, providing viewers with more access to its unique lineup of entertainment tailored to a young, comedy-loving audience.