If you’re a YouTube TV subscriber, today could bring some big changes (or at least a little uncertainty). That’s because the streaming service’s deal with NBCUniversal expires today, and until a new agreement is reached, some of the channels you rely on every day could disappear from your lineup.
For fans of live sports, late-night shows and prime-time dramas, the timing couldn’t be more inconvenient. Even those who stay updated with the daily news could find themselves without channels like MSNBC or CNBC.
YouTube TV is trying to soften the blow with a $10 credit if NBCU channels go dark for a while, but the reality is that your viewing experience could be interrupted. It’s a good idea to keep an eye on updates from YouTube TV so you’ll know as soon as the channels are restored.
In the meantime, we’ll walk through exactly which channels and shows could be affected and some simple steps you can take to keep your favorite content coming, even if the deal doesn’t get renewed right away.
What channels are affected?
YouTube TV subscribers are at risk of losing access to several NBCUniversal channels due to an expired carriage agreement. If a new deal isn’t reached soon, these channels and services could go dark, directly affecting your subscription.
Here’s what channels could be affected:
- NBC: This includes both national and local affiliates, meaning viewers could lose access to a wide range of popular programming, from live sports like “Sunday Night Football” and college football, to hit reality and entertainment shows such as “The Voice” and “Saturday Night Live,” as well as major news broadcasts and local news coverage.
- MSNBC: A leading network for political news, analysis and commentary, covering everything from breaking national stories to in-depth investigative reporting.
- CNBC: Focused on business, finance and economic news, CNBC delivers live market updates, expert analysis and shows like “Squawk Box” and “Mad Money.”
- USA Network: Known for a mix of scripted series, reality shows and sports coverage, USA Network features popular dramas, comedies and reality competitions that draw a broad audience.
- Golf Channel: Offers comprehensive coverage of professional and amateur golf tournaments, instructional content and live event commentary for golf enthusiasts.
- Telemundo: Provides Spanish-language programming, including telenovelas, news, reality shows and live sports, serving a wide audience across the U.S.
- Peacock: NBCUniversal’s streaming service, which may also be affected, potentially disrupting access to a wide range of movies, TV shows and exclusive streaming content available on-demand.
How to keep streaming these channels
If a blackout does occur, there are a few ways to keep watching while waiting for updates or a new agreement.
A good option is to check the NBC and Peacock apps. Even if YouTube TV loses access, these apps may still offer live streams or on-demand episodes. You might need a separate account, but it’s an easy way to stay current on primetime shows, news and sports highlights.
You could also explore other streaming services like Hulu with Live TV, Fubo TV or Sling TV, which may continue carrying NBCU channels. For viewers who rely heavily on these channels, a short-term switch could be worth it to avoid interruptions.
Finally, don’t forget on-demand and catch-up options. Many NBC and NBCU shows post full episodes online shortly after airing on the NBC website, the NBC app or the Peacock streaming service, letting you stay up to date even during a blackout. Keeping notifications on in the YouTube TV app or on social media can also alert you immediately when the channels are restored, so you won’t miss a thing.
For YouTube TV subscribers, today’s expiration of the NBCUniversal deal could mean interruptions to some of your most-watched channels. While YouTube TV has promised a $10 credit if channels go dark for an extended period, the key takeaway is to stay informed and keep an eye on updates so you know exactly how your subscription and daily viewing could be affected.
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