Yesterday DIRECTV and Nexstar agreed to a temporary deal to bring back Nexstar owned ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC locals. Now the two companies have announced a finalized deal to end the months long blackout for DIRECTV customers.
Terms of the agreements were not disclosed but this deal also brings back NewsNation to DIRECTV.
In a statement sent to Cord Cutters News DIRECTV CEO Bill Morrow addressed subscribers:
On Sept. 17, 2023, we began to return Nexstar-owned stations and NewsNation to DIRECTV, DIRECTV STREAM and U-verse customers, and have since finalized a new, multi-year agreement with Nexstar.
Unfortunately, over the past decade-plus access to your programming has become a battleground for networks and stations to try to drive up higher rates. As our customers, we recognize that while you may be able to access some programming over-the-air or on a streaming service during these periods, that is not the experience you expect.
We understand you have a choice among your TV providers and appreciate your ongoing loyalty during this renewal. That’s what will enable us to offer you more choice, personalization, and further value in future programming you pay to receive in your home.
Thank you for your support and tremendous patience.
Bill Morrow
CEO of DIRECTV
All Nexstar owned locals seem to have already been returned to DIRECTV, DIRECTV STREAM, and U-verse TV. Any stations not live yet should return to DIRECTV soon.
This news comes a week after Spectrum and Disney also ended their blackout over a contract fight. Still, though DISH and Comcast both still have locals dark as they fight over contracts with local TV station owners.