The clock is ticking for Google-owned YouTube TV and Fox Corporation to strike a carriage deal, or else risk a blackout that could strip Fox programming from millions of subscribers this week. Google indicated Monday it will remove Fox channels, including Fox News and Fox Sports, from the streaming platform unless an agreement is reached by the renewal deadline Wednesday evening.
Negotiations have been ongoing, but no agreement has been reached.
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Why Fox and YouTube are at odds
CNBC posted a blog from YouTube stating: “Fox is asking for payments that are far higher than what partners with comparable content offerings receive. Our priority is to reach a deal that reflects the value of their content and is fair for both sides without passing on additional costs to our subscribers.”
Fox pushed back in a statement to CNBC, saying it is “committed to reaching a fair agreement,” but accused Google of exploiting its “outsized influence” to push for terms “out of step with the marketplace.”
What happens if no deal is reached
If no deal is finalized by 5 p.m. ET on Wednesday, August 27, YouTube TV says it will remove Fox Sports, Fox Business and Fox News from its lineup. Subscribers were notified directly about the dispute in an email.
Carriage fees — also known as transmission fees — are at the center of the fight. Providers like YouTube TV pay networks like Fox to carry their channels. If the standoff continues, advertisers could take a hit, and customers could lose access to channels in the Fox network.
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YouTube recently eclipsed Netflix as the top streaming platform. Analysts believe YouTube TV has more than 9 million paid subscribers, despite Google not publicizing official numbers.
Impact on YouTube TV subscribers
YouTube TV currently costs $82.99 per month, offering more than 100 channels and unlimited DVR storage. The platform surpassed 8 million subscribers in 2024, according to YouTube CEO Neal Mohan, though Google says it does not disclose exact figures.
To ease the sting of a potential blackout, YouTube TV says it will offer customers a $10 monthly credit if Fox programming is dropped. The company is also directing viewers to Fox’s website to access shows and sports coverage.
