Comcast Xfinity and E.W. Scripps Dispute Disrupts Service for Michigan Viewers
Michigan Xfinity customers experienced a sudden loss of access to E.W. Scripps Company-owned stations on Tuesday, March 31st, due to a contract dispute between the two companies. The failure to reach a new agreement resulted in Xfinity subscribers being unable to view their local Scripps channels.
What Happened?
Xfinity notified customers via email on March 31st, explaining the situation. The company stated, “We know unexpected changes to your channel lineup can be frustrating. Scripps has refused our reasonable offers and is making demands that would significantly increase what you pay for TV service. Thanks for your patience as we work to keep your TV package affordable.”
E.W. Scripps Co. countered with a statement to the Detroit Free Press, asserting that Comcast disrupted customer access. They emphasized that the affected channels remain accessible through alternative platforms like streaming apps, online viewing, and other cable/satellite providers. According to Scripps, Comcast removed their local stations from Xfinity service in 19 markets, impacting access to vital local news, weather updates, and popular sports programming.
Which Channels Were Affected in Michigan?
The following channels were unavailable to Xfinity customers in various Michigan regions:
- Metro Detroit: WXYZ-TV Channel 7 and WMYD
- West Michigan: WXMI FOX 17 West Michigan
- Mid-Michigan: WSYM Fox 47
How to Continue Watching
Despite the disruption, viewers have several options to continue accessing their local channels:
- Antenna: Connecting an antenna to your television provides a free over-the-air signal for the interrupted channels.
- Streaming Services: Platforms like TabloTV, DIRECTV, and YouTube TV offer access to WXYZ Channel 7 and WMYD in the Detroit area.
- Alternative Providers: FOX 17 WXMI and WSYM-TV FOX 47 are available via YouTube TV, DIRECTV, and other cable/satellite services in West and Mid-Michigan.
The Companies’ Stances
Xfinity maintains that E.W. Scripps Co. is responsible for the dispute, citing expired contract terms and unreasonable demands. Their email to customers directs those seeking more information to xfinity.com/facts.
E.W. Scripps Co. firmly believes Comcast is at fault, emphasizing their commitment to public service and providing essential local content. In a statement, they said, “Scripps takes our public service responsibility to serve our communities seriously. Our stations provide on-the-ground reporting, real-time severe weather updates and live sports coverage that keep people safe and connected to what matters most in their daily lives.” They reiterated their willingness to negotiate a fair agreement and urged Comcast to restore the signals.
About the Companies
E.W. Scripps Co. is a Cincinnati-based television broadcasting company. Xfinity, a subsidiary of Comcast Corp., is a leading provider of cable, streaming television, internet, telephone, and home security services. You can learn more about Comcast here and E.W. Scripps here.
