News
The latest stories published on The Desk.
Altice USA restores MSG Networks to Optimum TV under new deal
Altice USA has restored access to MSG Networks on its Optimum TV platform after all sides reached a new carriage agreement on Saturday.
Philo adds multiplex channels from Starz, MGM Plus
Philo has quietly expanded the availability of Starz and MGM Plus channels available through the platform for those who subscribe to the premium add-ons.
MSNBC to settle $30 million defamation lawsuit brought by Georgia doctor
The lawsuit centered on an unfounded NBC News report that claimed women at immigration detention facilities received medically-unnecessary hysterectomies in 2020.
NESN launches free streaming channel with ancillary sports coverage
NESN has rolled out a new FAST channel in partnership with AMC Networks that offers live sports coverage and shoulder programming.
Associated Press sues White House officials over ban
The news organization says it is being barred from events involving President Donald Trump because it refuses to refer to the Atlantic Gulf as the "Gulf of Mexico."
Sinclair’s TBD sees ratings boost from Super Bowl, SNL marathon block
Sinclair saw higher viewership on Super Bowl Sunday with its decision to program reruns of Saturday Night Live that touched on various Super Bowl themes.
RATINGS
Nexstar stock slides after court orders $26 million payment to DirecTV
Nexstar's stock price took a hit on Friday, one day after the company was ordered by a New York court to pay DirecTV more than $26 million after it overcharged for carriage of a TV station.
ESPN to stop airing Major League Baseball games after 2025 season
The cable network and the professional sports league have mutually agreed to part ways.
Lawmaker wants DOJ to probe Fubo pay TV deal with Disney
The letter, sent by Senator Elizabeth Warren, may or may not be effective — depending on whether the DOJ wants to focus its efforts on Fubo or Disney.
Nexstar ordered to pay DirecTV $26.6 million over contract dispute
The award comes about six months after the court found Nexstar improperly collected TV distribution fees on behalf of a Maryland TV station that lost its NBC affiliation.
Dr. Phil Show to end broadcast syndication, move to Merit TV
Dr. Phil McGraw is ending his distribution agreement with CBS that made re-runs of his talk show available in broadcast syndication.
YouTube to release lower-cost “YouTube Lite Premium” plan
The service will offer uninterrupted streaming of non-music video content, but lack offline downloads and access to YouTube Music.