NBC warns YouTube TV subscribers of possible blackout as contract expiration nears
NBC says its distribution agreement with YouTube TV expires September 30 at 12:59 p.m. EST, putting popular shows, sports, and news at risk.
MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) — NBC affiliates are warning YouTube TV subscribers that they could soon lose access to local and national NBC programming if a new distribution agreement is not reached before the current contract expires.
The existing deal is scheduled to end on September 30 at 12:59 p.m. EST. NBC said negotiations are ongoing but has begun notifying viewers about the possibility of a blackout.
Subscribers are being directed to GetYourChannels.com for information on how to take action and to explore alternative platforms where NBC programming remains available.
41NBC/WMGT-TV, the NBC affiliate serving Macon, Warner Robins, and all of Middle Georgia, is among the stations alerting audiences. The potential blackout only affects YouTube TV subscribers, not viewers who watch free over the air, through local cable, or via other distribution partners.
What’s at stake
NBC programming at risk includes popular entertainment shows such as The Voice, Law & Order, Chicago Fire, Chicago Med, Chicago P.D., Saturday Night Live, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, and Late Night with Seth Meyers.
Sports coverage could also be disrupted, including Sunday Night Football, NASCAR, Big Ten Football, and Notre Dame Football. Special events such as Football Night in America and other NBC specials are also part of the package.
News programs that could be affected include NBC Nightly News with Tom Llamas, TODAY, Dateline NBC, and Meet the Press.
Impact on apps
If the distribution agreement expires, YouTube TV subscribers would also lose access to NBCUniversal’s channel apps on mobile, computer, and connected devices.
