Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc. and Disney Media & Entertainment Distribution Announce Renewals of ABC Affiliation Agreements Into 2026

Rhea-AI Summary

Sinclair Broadcast Group (SBGI) and Disney Media & Entertainment Distribution (DIS) have announced a multi-year renewal of ABC affiliations across all Sinclair stations through 2026. This extends the partnership and includes renewals for three ABC affiliated stations in Rochester, NY, and Traverse City, MI. Sinclair's SVP, Will Bell, emphasized the value of this relationship in delivering popular entertainment and news programming, while Disney's John Rouse expressed enthusiasm for the continued collaboration to serve local markets effectively.

Positive

• Long-term renewal of ABC affiliations through 2026 enhances programming stability for Sinclair.
• The deal strengthens the partnership with Disney, reflecting mutual benefits in local market operations.

Negative

• None.

BALTIMORE & NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: SBGI) and Disney Media & Entertainment Distribution (NYSE: DIS) today announced a multi-year deal that renews ABC affiliations across all Sinclair stations into 2026. Additionally, Disney Media & Entertainment Distribution also agreed to renew affiliations with three ABC affiliated stations to which Sinclair provides sales and other services under joint sales agreements: WHAM in Rochester, NY and WGTU and WGTQ in Traverse City, MI.

“We are pleased to reach a long-term renewal of our agreements with Disney for ABC, a valued partner and provider of some of broadcast television’s most popular entertainment, news and sports programming,” said Will Bell, SVP, Head of Distribution and Network Relations for Sinclair. “The renewals reflect the evolving media landscape and the continued value of the symbiotic relationship between ABC’s programming and the local news and syndicated content we provide.”

“We look forward to continuing to work closely with the Sinclair team to serve our mutual viewers via the ABC brand affiliation and its unrivaled network programming while driving strong results across these 30 important local markets well into the future,” said John Rouse, EVP, Affiliate Relations, Disney Media & Entertainment Distribution.

About Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc.

Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc. is a diversified media company and a leading provider of local news and sports. The Company owns, operates and/or provides services to 185 television stations in 86 markets; owns multiple national networks including Tennis Channel and Stadium; has TV stations affiliated with all the major broadcast networks and owns and/or operates 21 regional sports network brands. Sinclair’s content is delivered via multiple platforms, including over-the-air, multi-channel video program distributors, and digital and streaming platforms NewsON and STIRR. The Company regularly uses its website as a key source of Company information which can be accessed at www.sbgi.net.

About Disney Media & Entertainment Distribution

Disney Media & Entertainment Distribution (DMED) manages The Walt Disney Company’s vast content commercialization and distribution ecosystem that delivers the Company’s unparalleled storytelling to audiences worldwide. This entails P&L management and operation of the Company’s portfolio of streaming services including Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+, and Star+; its linear television channels and the ABC-owned stations; theatrical film distribution; content licensing and distribution, including Disney Music Group; global advertising sales; and the technology that powers these groups. Using a wealth of consumer insights from across the Company, DMED makes content investment and distribution decisions to maximize audience engagement and commercial impact across platforms, collaborating with creative leaders in Disney’s Studios, General Entertainment, Sports, and International organizations.

Category: General

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20221031005213/en/

Press:

Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc.

Steven Zenker, VP, Investor Relations

Billie-Jo McIntire, AVP, Investor Relations

(410) 568-1500

Bridget Osterhaus

Disney Media & Entertainment Distribution

Bridget.Osterhaus@disney.com

Source: Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc.

FAQ

What does the renewed deal between SBGI and DIS entail?

The deal renews ABC affiliations for Sinclair stations until 2026 and includes three ABC affiliated stations in New York and Michigan.

How long is the new agreement between Sinclair Broadcast Group and Disney?

The agreement extends until 2026.

What markets are affected by the SBGI and DIS agreement?

The agreement affects Sinclair stations across multiple markets, including Rochester, NY, and Traverse City, MI.