DirecTV Customers Lose Access to Sports Channels…Here’s What That Means

Published: June 12, 2026

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By Kayla DeKraker

A contract disagreement between DirecTV and The E.W. Scripps Company has left thousands looking for other ways to watch local ABC and NBC affiliates.

“Scripps is demanding the highest rates DIRECTV has ever received from a station group, which would continue to dramatically raise costs for consumers and businesses already struggling with affordability,” a press release from DirecTV about the dispute explained. “After DIRECTV declined those demands and sought a more reasonable agreement, Scripps chose to remove its stations from viewers in several major markets nationwide.”

Customers in areas including Cleveland, Denver, Detroit, Kansas City, Las Vegas, Nashville and Phoenix are affected. Unfortunately, the blackout hit during the NBA and NHL finals, which are airing on ABC. The US Open golf tournament, meanwhile, is on NBC.

“We understand customers are frustrated by temporarily losing their usual access to Scripps stations and the local news, network programming, and live sports they provide,” said Rob Thun, Chief content officer at DirecTV.

He added, “Unfortunately, Scripps is demanding the highest rates we have ever seen for programming that remains available for free over-the-air and through many station, network, and third-party streaming apps. We remain committed to protecting customers from indiscriminate and unnecessary cost increases for less popular programming while still working to restore the stations that many viewers rely on.”

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Amid the blackout, some are turning to streaming services as many streamers now have live options to watch news and sports channels.

For example, “YouTube TV is a paid arm of YouTube, that lets you watch 100+ channels over the internet, including NBC, ABC and ESPN for additional sports coverage,” Variety said. “Pricing starts at just $67.99/month right now for your first five months of service (regularly $82.99/month).”

Another option is the Hulu+ Live TV plan. It offers over 90 channels which can be streamed online, and pricing begins at $89.99 per month.

Although inconvenient, this disruption pushes consumers into a continuing trend: trading out traditional cable for streaming.

A 2025 Pew Research survey revealed that “Most Americans (83%) say they watch streaming services, with Netflix and Amazon Prime Video being especially common. Far fewer – 36% – say they currently subscribe to cable or satellite TV at home.”

Unlike cable subscriptions that often require contracts and hardware setup, streaming services work across smartphones, tablets, smart TVs and computers. Customers can subscribe or cancel with a few clicks and watch content wherever they have an internet connection.

Amid blackouts like DirecTV’s, the ability to stream live sports, local channels, news and entertainment becomes even more appealing.

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