NBCUniversal Warns YouTube TV Subscribers of Blackout
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Key Points
- NBCU’s deal with YouTube TV expires Sept. 30
- Channels like NBC, Telemundo, and sports could go dark
- Fight centers on sports rights and Peacock content
- YouTube says higher fees would raise prices for viewers
NBCUniversal is warning that YouTube TV subscribers may lose access to its channels if a new agreement isn’t reached by September 30. The blackout would affect nearly 10 million users, cutting off NBC, Telemundo, and big events like Sunday Night Football, NBA games, and Saturday Night Live.
The dispute is mainly about how sports and Peacock exclusives are shown on YouTube TV. NBCU says YouTube is trying to get special treatment, while pointing to Google’s massive $3 trillion value. YouTube argues NBCU wants to charge more than it charges on Peacock, which it says would force up subscription costs.
If talks fail, YouTube TV plans to give subscribers a $10 credit. Both sides say they want to avoid a blackout, but the fight shows how live sports are becoming a key pressure point in streaming deals.
