DISH Network has a reputation for being a hard bargainer when it comes to contract negotiations. They are the only ones in HBO’s history to have forced a channel blackout; a situation that has been ongoing since November 2018. Other TV networks are facing a similar situation as DISH’s carrier contracts come do.
Most notably, Disney-controlled channels like FX and National Geographic. A Disney spokesperson released a statement saying “Our contract with Dish for the FX and National Geographic networks is due to expire soon, so we have a responsibility to make our viewers aware of the potential loss of our programming. However, we remain fully committed to reaching a deal and are hopeful we can do so,”.
Naturally, DISH offers a bit of a different perspective in their statement. “Dish’s goal is to keep these channels available to our customer,” said DISH. “We are unsure why Disney, the new owner of these channels, decided to involve customers in the contract negotiation process at a point when there is still time for the two parties to reach a mutually beneficial deal.”
These talks come at an interesting time for DISH Network. Those who follow the wireless space know that DISH is rumoured to be in talks to buy wireless assets from T-Mobile, which they would then use to create their own wireless carrier. If this sale does not go through, it’s unlikely that the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) will approve the Sprint/T-Mobile merger.
If you are a DISH customer, it’s worth taking the time to call your local DISH representative to make sure you won’t be affected by any of the coming outages. DISH is always willing to work with their customers to find a solution that’s right for their entertainment needs, and their budget.
Sources:
Dish Faces Multiple Outages as Carriage Contracts Come Due
