Press ReleaseJuly 10, 2023
DIRECTV and Spectrum Networks Reach Distribution Agreement for Continued Carriage of Spectrum SportsNet and Spectrum SportsNet LA Across DIRECTV, DIRECTV STREAM, and U-verse
Share Article:
EL SEGUNDO, Calif. – Spectrum Networks has reached a new, multi-year distribution agreement with DIRECTV for regional sports networks Spectrum SportsNet and SportsNet LA.
This new agreement offers a significantly lower penetration threshold, giving DIRECTV the ability to provide more affordable and flexible options to customers not interested in premium sports programming while also serving those who want live NBA Los Angeles Lakers and MLB Los Angeles Dodgers games.
“While viewing habits continue to shift, it’s clear that regular season professional sports programming remains extremely popular with a core base of traditional cable, satellite, and OTT customers,” said Dan Finnerty, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Spectrum Networks. “That said, given these customers represent a relatively small percentage of the overall video subscriber base, and recognizing the marked increase in direct-to-consumer choices, the model for RSNs needs to evolve to reflect the realities of the current marketplace. With this agreement, we are taking a step to shift the business model so that customers have more control.”
DIRECTV, DIRECTV STREAM, and U-verse customers throughout Southern and Central California, portions of Nevada including Las Vegas, as well as Hawaii will continue to enjoy live coverage of future Dodgers and Lakers games, pregame and postgame analysis, as well as exclusive studio and original programming such as “Backstage: Dodgers” and “Backstage: Lakers.” Those two Emmy Award-winning documentary series provide fans an inside look at players, coaches, and management as they navigate the regular season and into any postseason play.
“DIRECTV continues to believe in the power of local sports, while also recognizing the demands of the many homes we serve with other diverse programming interests,” said Rob Thun, chief content officer of DIRECTV. “This agreement with Spectrum Networks achieves three key objectives – putting consumers first, recognizing local value, and enabling both parties to extend their relationship with long-term, mutual benefits.”
Additional terms of the agreement were not released.
About DIRECTV
As a leader in sports and entertainment for almost 30 years, DIRECTV provides industry-leading content, service, and user satisfaction. By reimagining what is possible, DIRECTV’s mission is to aggregate, curate and deliver exceptional, innovative service to its customers. In 2023, DIRECTV elevated the customer experience by delivering Gemini, which can integrate customers’ content from their third-party platform subscriptions onto a single one-stop, digital experience. With DIRECTV, the sports season never ends, and customers are treated to broadcasts of several major sports, including the NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, and multiple domestic and international soccer leagues. DIRECTV provides customers the choice of watching sports, movies, and TV shows on their TVs at home or their favorite mobile devices via the DIRECTV app.
About Spectrum Networks
Spectrum Networks is a series of 24/7 news and sports networks owned and operated by Charter Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ:CHTR), a leading broadband connectivity company and cable operator serving more than 32 million customers in 41 states. Spectrum Networks carry distinct, comprehensive, and exclusive local programming on over 30 networks across Charter’s footprint. More information on Spectrum Networks is available at spectrumlocalnews.com.
Media Contacts
FOR SPECTRUM NETWORKS:
Maureen Huff
FOR DIRECTV:
Thomas Tyrer