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Xfinity just dropped 19 Scripps channels across the nation in a contract dispute. The blackout started at 5:59 p.m. ET on March 31, 2026, leaving millions of subscribers without local news, sports, and entertainment overnight.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Expiration date: Contract between Comcast and E.W. Scripps ended March 31, 2026
- Total stations affected: 40 Scripps broadcast stations in 19 markets nationwide
- Channel breakdown: 19 Big Four stations (ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC) plus 21 independent stations
- Dispute reason: Scripps rejected Comcast’s offers, demanding fairer compensation terms
Millions Without Local News as Xfinity Blackout Spreads
On Tuesday night, March 31, Xfinity customers woke to a devastating message on their screens. “This channel is unavailable” appeared where their local stations used to be. The blackout affected WXYZ in Detroit, WTXL in Tallahassee, Denver7, and dozens of other local stations Scripps owns nationally. Customers had zero warning before the sudden removal.
In Miami, sports fans were particularly frustrated. The Florida Panthers game against Ottawa was cut off mid-broadcast, leaving viewers in the dark about the final score and highlights. This type of sudden sports interruption amplifies customer frustration across all affected markets.
Xfinity drops 19 Scripps channels in dispute, locals blacked out
Comcast Xfinity cuts 40 E.W. Scripps channels, here’s what you’ve lost
Why Comcast and Scripps Went to War
Comcast claims it made several reasonable offers to renew the carriage agreement. According to Xfinity’s official statement, Scripps rejected all proposals and demanded unreasonable terms that would significantly raise costs for customers. Comcast argues these demands are about compensation, not content quality.
Scripps counters that their stations provide critical local service. The company issued a statement emphasizing their role: “Our stations provide on-the-ground reporting, real-time severe weather updates and live sports coverage that keep people safe.” Scripps says Comcast undervalues their public service contribution to local communities.
Which Channels Are Blacked Out in Your Market?
| Market | Affected Stations | Network Affiliated |
| Detroit | WXYZ (Ch. 7), WYMD (Ch. 20) | ABC, Independent |
| Tallahassee | WTXL, WTLF | ABC, CBS |
| Denver | Denver7, KMGH, KOAA | ABC, NBC, CBS |
| Nashville | NewsChannel 5 | NBC |
| Miami | Multiple Scripps affiliates | ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC |
“Scripps has refused our reasonable offers, and their demands would significantly increase the price you pay. Thank you for your patience as we work to keep your channels affordable.”
— Xfinity, Official statement on programming dispute
How to Keep Watching During the Blackout
Free over-the-air broadcasts remain your first option. Many affected stations stream programming on their official websites and mobile apps at no cost. Customers can also contact other cable and satellite providers in their area that still carry Scripps stations. Streaming services like Hulu, Netflix, and Amazon Prime Video offer alternative entertainment options.
Xfinity suggests Xumo Play and Pluto TV as free alternatives for news and general entertainment. However, these services won’t fully replace the hyperlocal news and live sports coverage that Scripps stations provide. For customers wanting to pressure Comcast, the support number is 1-800-934-6489.
When Will Scripps Channels Return to Xfinity?
No resolution timeline exists yet. Both companies say they’re negotiating, but fundamental disagreements about fair market rates remain unresolved. Carriage disputes in the cable industry can last weeks or months. Without compromise from either side, customers face an extended blackout affecting local news during spring sports season and severe weather season.
The 40 Scripps stations impacted serve 19 major markets nationwide. If negotiations fail quickly, expect this dispute to become a case study in how major programming disputes harm ordinary viewers caught between corporate disagreements.
Sources
- Xfinity Support – Official statement on E.W. Scripps agreement expiration and channel blackout details
- The Detroit News – WXYZ-TV blackout reporting and customer impact coverage
- Scripps Networks – Official response to Comcast dispute and commitment to public service
