Sinclair’s free over-the-air (OTA) multicast networks (CHARGE, Comet, ROAR, and The Nest) are making a big push into more U.S. markets this year. The company announced new affiliate launches, upgraded channel positions, and expanded digital carriage, bringing its content to more viewers without the need for a cable subscription.
Expanded Market Coverage
Starting August 1 and continuing through the fall, viewers in cities like Boston, Austin, Nashville, San Antonio, and St. Louis will see the networks arrive or move to more prominent channel positions.
- CHARGE will gain affiliates in major DMAs including Boston-Manchester (WFXT-2) and Austin (KEYE-3), plus new markets like Lincoln & Hastings-Kearney and Macon, GA.
- ROAR launches on .1 channel positions with full cable coverage in markets such as Nashville (WNAB-1), Wichita-Hutchinson (KMTW-1), and Sioux City (KMEG-1).
- Comet expands with moves to better channel slots in Reno (KRNV-2) and Cedar Rapids (KFXA-3), plus new full-power stations in St. Louis and Austin.
- The Nest adds numerous affiliates from San Antonio (KMYS-2) to Missoula, MT (KECI-5) and will debut on YouTube TV later this year.
These expansions will make it easier for households to access free, ad-supported programming with just an antenna and if you need a new one, Antennas Direct offers a wide range of indoor and outdoor models.
National Distribution Gains
Beyond local markets, all four networks are now available nationwide on Mediacom. This adds substantial reach in the Midwest and Southeast, further cementing Sinclair’s position in the growing free broadcast-multicast space.
Lee Schlazer, Sinclair’s SVP of Distribution, said the strategy combines “affiliate expansion, upgraded channel placements, and national distribution on platforms like YouTube TV and Mediacom” to bring the networks to more audiences.
Streaming Options
For those who prefer streaming, Sinclair’s OTA networks are increasingly accessible through virtual multichannel video programming distributors (vMVPDs). The Nest’s upcoming launch on YouTube TV will bring the network to millions of digital-first viewers, adding to its growing national footprint.
Whether you’re catching classic TV shows, sci-fi programming, lifestyle content, or action movies, these new OTA options mean more free entertainment for more households.