Local News
A contract dispute with Cox Media Group has led to a blackout of local channels, including Fox affiliate Boston 25 News, as of Dec. 15.
A contract dispute between Verizon Fios and Cox Media Group has cut off FOX and NBC programming for Fios customers in Boston, Providence, and Pittsburgh, effective Dec. 15.
Customers in Boston and Providence lost access to WFXT or the FOX, Charge!, and Laff channels, while those in Pittsburgh lost access to WPXI channels, including NBC, meTV, Laff, and Pittsburgh Cable News Channel.
“We have been in extensive negotiations with Cox Media Group to reach a new agreement that is fair and keeps your bill from increasing unreasonably,” a Verizon spokesperson said. “Unfortunately, Cox Media Group is demanding increases that are neither reasonable nor fair.”
On Monday, Cox Media Group, in a press release, said Verizon Fios dropped Boston 25 from its lineup after refusing multiple offers to extend negotiations, blocking viewers from accessing breaking local news and weather, emergency information, live major sports, and other entertainment programming.
The decision, Cox said, comes at the start of key NFL matchups, as college football nears the playoffs, and as the NBA and holiday programming get into full swing.
“The latest actions of Verizon/Fios threaten those investments and hurt consumers who rely on us,” said Todd Brown, vice president and general manager at Boston 25, in a statement. “Verizon/Fios should stop holding its own customers hostage in its attempts to harm local journalism and community service, all while it tries to get even larger, at the expense of our loyal viewers.”
Boston 25 News also posted on its website, urging customers to call Verizon Fios to demand that it restore Boston 25 to its lineup. The message also told customers to switch providers to avoid disruption.
The two companies issued similar threats in 2022 before reaching a last-minute deal on Dec. 16 to keep the stations on Verizon Fios.
This situation isn’t new for Cox. The company has had similar disputes with other providers, including DISH Network in 2022 and DirecTV in 2024, resulting in those providers dropping their channels.
Verizon Fios did not disclose its customer count in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, but states on its website that it serves the Boston area, parts of the South Shore, and Taunton in Massachusetts, and the Providence, Pawtucket, and South Kingston metro areas in Rhode Island.
At the end of 2024, Verizon reported it had 2.68 million Fios pay-TV subscribers nationwide, down about 9% from the previous year, due to ongoing competition from streaming services.
“While we remain committed to securing a fair deal and bringing these channels back, we couldn’t agree to their terms without a service disruption,” Verizon wrote in a message to customers online.
Fios TV told customers they can still watch the NFL, NBA, and college football through alternative viewing options, including Peacock for NBC programming and the Fox Sports App. However, separate subscriptions are required.
“We appreciate your patience as we continue to negotiate on your behalf,” the Verizon spokesperson said.
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