CLEVELAND, Ohio — An inability to agree on a new content contract could lead to Fox channels going dark this week on YouTube TV, just as the college and NFL football seasons are ready to begin.
YouTube TV sent an email to subscribers Monday warning that Fox channels “may become unavailable” if a new deal isn’t reached by 5 p.m. Wednesday. The TV provider says it’s in “active negotiations” with Fox.
Impacted channels include Fox Broadcast Network, Fox News, and Fox Sports.
The Browns’ season opener on Sept. 7 against the Cincinnati Bengals is scheduled to be broadcast on WJW Channel 8, a Fox affiliate. Five other games also are scheduled to be broadcast on WJW.
In addition, the Ohio State Buckeyes’ season opener Saturday against the Texas Longhorns also is being shown on WJW.
“We know how frustrating it is to lose channels, which is why it’s our goal to keep Fox on YouTube TV,” the email says. “We’re committed to continuing to work with Fox to reach an agreement ...”
The email says YouTube TV will offer subscribers a $10 credit if a deal can’t be reached by Wednesday.
The Fox network released a statement saying it’s “disappointed that Google continually exploits its outsized influence by proposing terms that are out of step with the marketplace,” according to the Hollywood Reporter.
“We are alerting Fox viewers who are YouTube TV subscribers that they could lose access to much of their favorite news, sports, entertainment and local station programming unless Google engages in a meaningful way soon,” the statement says.
If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.