YouTube TV Carriage Dispute with Paramount Looms, Threatening Viewer Access to CBS and Other Channels
Introduction
YouTube TV subscribers are facing a potential blackout of CBS, CBS Sports Network, Comedy Central, MTV, and other Paramount-owned channels starting February 13, 2023. This impending carriage dispute between the streaming service and the media conglomerate has sparked concerns among viewers who could lose access to their favorite shows.
Negotiations Reach an Impasse
YouTube and Paramount have been engaged in negotiations for a new carriage agreement, but they have failed to reach a consensus. YouTube claims it has been seeking a fair agreement that does not increase costs for its subscribers. Paramount, on the other hand, alleges that YouTube is pressuring them to accept unfavorable terms.
Impact on YouTube TV Subscribers
If the two sides fail to reach an agreement, YouTube TV users could lose access to over two dozen Paramount channels, including:
- CBS affiliates in major metro areas such as New York, San Francisco, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Boston, and Dallas-Fort Worth
- Comedy Central
- MTV
- Nickelodeon
- BET
- CBS Sports Network
- VH1
Additionally, subscribers could lose access to recordings of Paramount content in their DVR libraries.
Potential Mitigation Measures
YouTube TV has stated that it may offer a $8 credit to users if it is unable to reach a deal with Paramount for an extended period. This credit would cover a month’s subscription to Paramount+, which provides streams of local CBS stations and other Paramount channels.
Past Carriage Disputes
Carriage disputes between TV networks and distributors are not uncommon. Similar conflicts have occurred in the past, including the 2019 dispute between YouTube TV and Comcast over NBCUniversal stations. In that case, a deal was reached at the last minute.
Uncertainty for Viewers
The outcome of this carriage dispute remains uncertain. However, YouTube TV subscribers are placed in a difficult position, facing the potential loss of popular channels while paying a monthly fee of $83 for the service’s base plan.
Author’s Background
The article is written by Ben, an experienced technology and consumer electronics journalist. He has contributed to PCWorld, TechHive, and other publications, covering a wide range of topics from smart home devices to entertainment.
Conclusion
The impending carriage dispute between YouTube TV and Paramount threatens to disrupt viewer access to popular CBS and Paramount-owned channels. While the possibility of a last-minute agreement exists, YouTube TV subscribers may need to consider alternative options if a deal is not reached in time.
