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DirecTV-Scripps blackout hits 54 stations, leaving some without the Stanley Cup Final
The blackout affects local news and live sports for millions of households as both sides blame higher retransmission fees.
Millions of DIRECTV customers lost access to local stations on Monday after a retransmission consent dispute with E.W. Scripps Local Media, which blacked out 54 stations across 36 Nielsen designated market areas.
DIRECTV rejected what it characterized as the "highest rates we've ever seen" from Scripps, prompting the broadcaster to remove its stations after negotiations stalled over retransmission fees.
Fans of the Vegas Golden Knights can still watch the NHL Stanley Cup Final via the ESPN app using DIRECTV credentials, even in cities where Scripps owns the local ABC affiliate.
The American Television Alliance condemned the blackout Monday, urging Congress to update retransmission regulations; Scripps previously pulled 40 stations from Comcast Xfinity in April.
Blaming DIRECTV's private equity ownership, Scripps CEO Adam Symson claimed the provider ignores local community needs to protect "zombie channels" rather than prioritizing broadcast television and local journalism.