DIRECTV may lose access to over 50 local channels owned by the E.W. Scripps Company at the end of May 2026.
The contract that lets DIRECTV show these local channels is about to expire, and talks have stalled over retransmission fees.
This dispute affects people who count on DIRECTV for local news, weather alerts, traffic updates, prime-time shows, and live sports.
What DIRECTV local channels are the most affected?
Affected stations include ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC affiliates in numerous cities. Viewers may lose access to local content not available on national cable channels.
Scripps is now showing on-screen warnings and posting notices on station websites, urging DIRECTV subscribers to get ready. The company says its main goal is to keep delivering sports, news, weather, and entertainment that support daily life in local communities.
If there is no new agreement, these channels will disappear from DIRECTV.
What has been the response from DIRECTV?
DIRECTV has responded by saying Scripps is asking for a big rate increase. A company spokesperson said they are trying to renew the deal but want to keep prices fair. They also pointed out that much of the programming is already free over the air or online.
For households in these areas, the DIRECTV and Scripps dispute could cause problems during important times. Local stations cover elections, natural disasters, and major sports seasons like the NFL and college football.
If these channels go away, families may have to quickly find other ways to watch during sports seasons or emergencies.
Scripps has caused blackouts before
This situation is similar to a dispute between Scripps and Comcast earlier in 2026. Scripps dropped Xfinity channels for a few weeks before a new deal brought them back.
That precedent suggests viewers might face some short-term trouble, but a deal could still happen. For now, DIRECTV customers are left uncertain.
A prolonged blackout could reduce access to trusted local reporting when media trust is already challenged.
What DIRECTV customers can do now
If the blackout happens, DIRECTV customers have a few options:
- You can use an indoor or outdoor antenna to get free over-the-air broadcasts of local stations.
- You can also install free streaming apps like LG Channels, Samsung TV Plus, or Amazon Prime Video’s live TV section to watch local news.
- Consider paid live TV streamers like Fubo and Hulu + Live TV.
Talks are still going on, but with the deadline coming up, millions of people could soon lose access to their usual channels.