DISH Network announced on March 10 that Gray Media has removed 226 of its local television stations from the DISH TV lineup, affecting customers in 113 markets across the country. The blackout follows a breakdown in negotiations over retransmission consent fees, with DISH refusing to accept what it described as unreasonable rate increases proposed by Gray Media.
The removal of these channels impacts viewers who rely on them for local news, sports, and weather updates. According to DISH, Gray Media is demanding fee hikes despite declining viewership and the availability of alternative streaming options. The company also said that last-minute demands regarding stations not yet owned by Gray Media contributed to stalled negotiations just hours before the previous agreement expired.
“It is deeply disappointing that Gray Media is using its viewers as bargaining chips,” said Kevin Covell, Senior Vice President of DISH Video Services. “We offered a fair agreement to keep these stations on the air, but Gray Media walked away. Gray Media chose to black out their own viewers, rather than reasonably negotiate, in an attempt to extract significantly higher fees.”
DISH has outlined several ways for affected customers to continue accessing their local programming during the blackout. Most impacted channels are available for free over-the-air with a digital antenna. Additionally, many network programs can be streamed through direct-to-consumer apps such as Peacock, Paramount+, FOX One, or other network-specific platforms. Customers seeking more information are encouraged to visit DISHPromise.com.
Covell said that “our goal remains unchanged: to reach a deal that is fair for our customers.” He added that DISH hopes Gray Media will return to negotiations soon.
The dispute affects a range of networks including ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, CW, MyNetworkTV, Telemundo and others distributed by Gray Media in numerous markets nationwide.
