Why is CBS no longer on Dish?

CBS, a cornerstone of American television for decades, is no longer available on DISH Network. This abrupt removal has left many subscribers confused and frustrated, seeking immediate answers. This comprehensive guide delves into the reasons behind this significant carriage dispute, exploring the financial, contractual, and strategic factors that led to CBS's disappearance from DISH programming packages.

Understanding the CBS-Dish Carriage Dispute

The absence of CBS from DISH Network's channel lineup is the result of a complex and often contentious negotiation process between the broadcaster and the satellite television provider. These disputes, commonly referred to as "carriage disputes," occur when a pay-TV provider and a content owner (like CBS) fail to reach an agreement on the terms under which the provider can carry the content owner's channels. At their core, these disputes revolve around money – specifically, the fees paid by the distributor to the content owner. For DISH subscribers, the immediate consequence is the inability to access local CBS affiliates and national CBS programming, including popular shows, live sports, and news. This situation is not unique to DISH and CBS; similar disputes have affected numerous providers and networks over the years, highlighting the ongoing challenges in the distribution of broadcast television in the digital age.

The specific reasons for the breakdown in negotiations between CBS (now Paramount Global) and DISH Network are multifaceted. While the exact details of private business negotiations are rarely fully disclosed, public statements from both companies and industry analysis point to several key areas of contention. These typically include the escalating cost of retransmission fees, the bundling of channels, and the differing business models and priorities of broadcasters and distributors. Understanding these underlying factors is crucial to grasping why a channel as prominent as CBS would be removed from a major platform like DISH.

The Economics of Content Distribution

The television industry operates on a complex economic model. Broadcasters, like CBS, invest heavily in producing and acquiring content – everything from flagship dramas and comedies to major sporting events and national news. To recoup these investments and generate profit, they seek compensation from distributors, such as DISH. Distributors, in turn, package these channels into various subscription tiers and sell them to consumers. The fees paid by distributors to content owners are a significant component of the overall cost of a television package. When these fees become too high for the distributor to absorb without significantly increasing prices for their subscribers, or when the distributor believes the value of the content does not justify the cost, a dispute can arise.

Retransmission Fees: A Growing Burden

A primary driver of these disputes is the concept of retransmission fees. These are fees that local broadcast television stations charge cable and satellite providers for the right to carry their signals. Historically, these fees were minimal or non-existent, as broadcast signals were considered freely available. However, as broadcast networks and their affiliated stations became more valuable, particularly with the rise of live sports and popular network programming, broadcasters began demanding significant compensation. For DISH, a platform that has historically prided itself on offering competitive pricing, absorbing these rising retransmission fees without passing them on to consumers or finding offsetting savings elsewhere becomes increasingly difficult.

The Role of Paramount Global

CBS is now part of Paramount Global, a larger media conglomerate that owns a diverse portfolio of broadcast, cable, and streaming assets. This means that negotiations with DISH likely involve not just the CBS broadcast network but potentially other Paramount Global channels as well, such as Paramount Network, MTV, Comedy Central, and Nickelodeon, depending on the specific package DISH offers. The broader portfolio of Paramount Global can influence negotiation leverage. If DISH loses access to a suite of popular cable channels in addition to CBS, the pressure to reach an agreement might increase. Conversely, if Paramount Global believes DISH is a less critical distribution partner compared to others, they might be more willing to hold firm during a dispute.

The Crucial Role of Retransmission Fees

Retransmission fees are the bedrock of most modern carriage disputes between broadcasters and distributors. These fees represent the compensation that local broadcast television stations demand from cable and satellite providers for the right to carry their signals. It's a system that has evolved significantly over the past few decades, transforming from a nominal charge to a substantial financial consideration. Understanding the genesis and impact of these fees is paramount to comprehending why channels like CBS disappear from DISH.

How Retransmission Fees Work

Under U.S. law, broadcasters have the right to "retransmit" their signals. They can choose to either:

• Negotiate a retransmission consent agreement with a distributor, which typically involves a fee.
• Elect to have their signal "go dark" on that distributor's platform, meaning the distributor cannot legally carry the signal without consent.

For years, many smaller stations or those with less popular programming might have accepted minimal fees or even "in-kind" compensation (like promotional spots). However, as broadcast networks consolidated and their programming, especially live sports and major network shows, became increasingly valuable, stations began demanding much higher fees. Broadcasters argue that these fees are justified because they are the ones investing in local news, producing popular programming, and delivering content that subscribers want to watch. They see it as fair compensation for the value they provide.

The Escalation of Fees (2025-26 Data Insights)

Data from 2025-26 indicates a continued upward trend in retransmission fee demands. Industry analysts report that the average retransmission fee per subscriber paid by cable and satellite companies to local broadcasters has climbed steadily. For major markets and affiliated stations of the "Big Four" networks (ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC), these fees can range from several dollars per subscriber per month. For a large provider like DISH, serving millions of subscribers, these costs can amount to hundreds of millions of dollars annually. This escalating cost puts immense pressure on distributors to either pass these costs onto consumers through higher monthly bills or to absorb them, impacting their profitability.

DISH's Perspective on Retransmission Fees

DISH Network, historically known for its aggressive stance on pricing and its willingness to engage in public disputes to keep costs down for its subscribers, views the escalating retransmission fees as unreasonable. The company often argues that broadcasters are essentially demanding payment for content that is freely available over the air with an antenna. While this is technically true for over-the-air broadcasts, it ignores the convenience and comprehensive channel lineups that pay-TV services offer. DISH's strategy often involves publicly criticizing broadcasters for their fee demands, framing the dispute as a battle against rising consumer costs. They aim to position themselves as the consumer's advocate, fighting against what they perceive as unfair demands from content owners.

Impact on DISH's Business Model

DISH operates on a business model that aims to provide a broad range of channels at a competitive price. When retransmission fees for a major network like CBS, along with its local affiliates, become excessively high, it directly challenges this model. DISH must weigh the cost of carrying the channel against the potential subscriber churn (customers leaving the service) if the channel is removed. The decision to let a channel go dark is usually a calculated risk, based on an assessment of how many subscribers will leave versus how much money will be saved by not paying the fees. In the case of CBS, the decision suggests that DISH believed the cost of continued carriage outweighed the risk of losing subscribers, or that they felt they could negotiate a better deal by taking a hard line.

Negotiation Stalemate: Key Issues at Play

Carriage disputes are rarely about a single point of contention. They are typically the culmination of complex negotiations where multiple issues are on the table. When these negotiations break down, it signifies a fundamental disagreement on the value of content, the structure of distribution, and the future direction of media consumption. For the CBS-DISH dispute, several key issues likely contributed to the stalemate, pushing both parties to the brink of removing the channel.

The Value of CBS Programming

CBS is a powerhouse in broadcast television, consistently ranking among the top networks in viewership for its primetime shows, news programs, and live sports like the NFL on CBS. This strong viewership translates into advertising revenue for the network and, by extension, value for the local affiliates. Broadcasters like CBS argue that this established audience and the quality of their programming are precisely why they deserve higher compensation. They are providing a service that DISH subscribers want, and they believe they should be paid accordingly for that value.

DISH's Counter-Argument on Value

DISH, however, likely contends that the value proposition has shifted. They might argue that with the proliferation of streaming services and the increasing ability of consumers to access content à la carte, the traditional bundle offered by pay-TV providers is becoming less essential. They may also point to declining overall viewership trends in linear television, suggesting that while CBS may still be popular, its overall reach within the pay-TV ecosystem might be diminishing. Furthermore, DISH might argue that the fees demanded by CBS are disproportionate to the value delivered, especially when considering the cost of other channels in their packages.

Bundling and Channel Inclusion

Another common point of contention in carriage negotiations is channel bundling. Broadcasters, particularly large media conglomerates like Paramount Global, often try to leverage the popularity of one channel (like CBS) to push for the inclusion or favorable terms for other channels within their portfolio. For instance, Paramount Global might insist that if DISH wants to carry the CBS broadcast network, they must also carry other Paramount-owned cable channels like MTV, Comedy Central, or Nickelodeon, or accept higher fees for those channels as well.

DISH's Resistance to Unwanted Bundles

DISH, aiming to control costs and offer a streamlined selection of channels, may resist being forced to carry channels that they believe do not add significant value for their subscribers or that they can acquire on more favorable terms elsewhere. They might prefer to curate their own channel packages, selecting only the most popular and cost-effective channels. This desire to avoid "must-carry" provisions for less popular channels within a larger bundle can be a significant sticking point.

Contract Terms and Expiration

All carriage agreements have a defined term. When a contract is nearing expiration, both parties enter into negotiations for a new agreement. The terms of the previous contract can set a precedent, but there is always room for negotiation. If one party feels the previous terms were unfair or if market conditions have changed significantly, they will push for revised terms. The expiration of a contract provides a natural leverage point for both the distributor and the content owner. If negotiations stall as the expiration date approaches, the channel can be removed.

The Power of Leverage

In these negotiations, both DISH and CBS hold leverage. CBS has valuable content that millions of viewers want. DISH has millions of subscribers who are accustomed to having CBS available. The decision to remove a channel is a high-stakes gamble. CBS risks alienating viewers who might switch to another provider or to streaming services. DISH risks losing subscribers who are unwilling to part with CBS programming. The stalemate occurs when neither party is willing to concede enough to satisfy the other's demands, believing that their leverage will ultimately force the other side to agree to their terms.

Allegations of Bad Faith Negotiation

During public disputes, both parties often accuse the other of negotiating in bad faith. DISH might claim that CBS is making unreasonable demands and is unwilling to negotiate fairly. Conversely, CBS might accuse DISH of intentionally dragging out negotiations or using the dispute as a marketing tactic. These accusations, while often part of the public relations battle, can reflect genuine frustration and a breakdown in trust between the two entities.

Impact on DISH Subscribers: What You Need to Know

The immediate and most significant impact of the CBS-DISH carriage dispute on DISH subscribers is the loss of access to CBS programming. This means no more watching local CBS news, popular primetime shows like "Tracker" or "Young Sheldon" (though these may have concluded or moved by 2025-26, the principle remains for current CBS flagship shows), live sporting events broadcast on CBS (such as NFL games, NCAA basketball tournament games, or the Masters), or other CBS Network content. This disruption can be particularly frustrating for households that rely on DISH as their primary source of television entertainment and news.

Loss of Local Channels

A crucial aspect of this dispute is the impact on local CBS affiliates. DISH subscribers in areas served by a local CBS station will no longer be able to watch that station's programming through their DISH subscription. This includes local news, weather, community programming, and syndicated shows that air on the local affiliate. For many, local news is a primary reason for subscribing to a TV package, making this loss particularly impactful.

Subscriber Frustration and Churn

The removal of a major network like CBS inevitably leads to subscriber frustration. Many customers subscribe to DISH specifically for the channels it offers, and losing access to a network as prominent as CBS can be a deal-breaker. This frustration can manifest in angry calls to customer service, social media complaints, and, ultimately, subscriber churn. DISH likely anticipates some level of subscriber loss due to this dispute, but they would have calculated that the cost savings from not paying retransmission fees would offset this loss, at least in the short to medium term.

Disruption to Viewing Habits

For households that have built their weekly viewing schedules around CBS programming, the loss of access creates significant disruption. This could involve missing live events, having to delay watching favorite shows, or needing to find alternative ways to consume content. The convenience of having all their channels in one package is lost, forcing subscribers to adapt their media consumption habits.

Financial Implications for Subscribers

While DISH subscribers save money by not paying for CBS through their DISH bill, they might incur new costs if they seek alternative ways to watch CBS programming. For example, subscribing to a streaming service that offers live TV or individual CBS shows could add to their monthly expenses. The overall financial impact depends on how subscribers choose to replace the lost content.

DISH's Public Relations Strategy

During these disputes, DISH often employs a public relations strategy to communicate with its subscribers. This typically involves running on-screen messages on the affected channels (before they go dark), issuing press releases, and actively engaging on social media. The goal is to inform subscribers about the dispute, explain DISH's position, and direct them to resources for alternative viewing options. They aim to portray themselves as fighting on behalf of the consumer against what they deem unfair demands from broadcasters.

Communication and Transparency Efforts

DISH typically provides clear communication about the status of the dispute and the channels that have been removed. They often include information on their website and through customer service channels to help subscribers understand the situation. Transparency, even if framed from their perspective, is crucial to managing customer expectations and mitigating anger.

Alternatives for Viewing CBS Content

For DISH subscribers who are missing CBS programming, there are several alternative avenues to explore. These options range from free over-the-air broadcasts to various paid streaming services, each offering a different approach to accessing CBS content. Understanding these alternatives can help subscribers make informed decisions about how to continue enjoying their favorite shows and live events.

Over-the-Air (OTA) Antenna

The most direct and often free alternative is to use an over-the-air (OTA) antenna. CBS, like all local broadcast stations, transmits its signal freely through the airwaves. With a suitable antenna, DISH subscribers can receive their local CBS affiliate's signal directly. The quality of reception depends on the subscriber's location, the type of antenna used, and the strength of the broadcast signal.

Pros and Cons of OTA Antennas

• Pros: Free after the initial purchase of the antenna, access to local news and major network programming, no monthly fees.
• Cons: Requires an antenna and potentially a digital converter box, reception can be variable, limited to local channels, may not be feasible in all geographic locations.

For those who primarily watch local news and primetime network shows, an OTA antenna can be an excellent and cost-effective solution. Many modern televisions have built-in tuners, making setup straightforward.

Streaming Live TV Services

Several live TV streaming services offer access to local CBS affiliates, often alongside a broad selection of other popular cable channels. These services are designed to replicate the traditional cable or satellite TV experience but are delivered over the internet.

Popular Live TV Streaming Options (2025-26):

• YouTube TV: Known for its comprehensive channel lineup, including local CBS affiliates in most markets, and a generous cloud DVR.
• Hulu + Live TV: Offers a strong selection of channels, including CBS, and integrates with Hulu's on-demand library.
• Sling TV: A more customizable option, Sling TV offers different "Orange" and "Blue" packages. CBS availability can vary by market and package selection, often requiring the "Blue" package with the "Local Channels" add-on in select cities.
• FuboTV: Originally focused on sports, FuboTV has expanded its channel offerings to include a wide range of entertainment and news channels, typically including CBS.
• DirecTV Stream: Offers various packages that include local channels, including CBS, and can be a good alternative for those seeking a comprehensive channel lineup.

These services typically require a stable internet connection and are billed monthly. The availability of local CBS affiliates can vary by geographic location, so it's essential to check the provider's website for specific channel lineups in your area.

CBS's Own Streaming Service: Paramount+

Paramount+, the streaming service from Paramount Global, offers a significant amount of CBS content. Subscribers to the "Paramount+ with SHOWTIME" plan can often stream their local live CBS feed in addition to a vast library of on-demand content from CBS, Paramount Pictures, and other Paramount Global brands.

Paramount+ Content Offering

• Live CBS Feed: In most markets, the premium tier includes a live stream of the local CBS affiliate.
• On-Demand Library: Access to current and past seasons of popular CBS shows, movies, and originals.
• Sports Coverage: Extensive live sports coverage, including NFL games broadcast on CBS, UEFA Champions League, and more.

Paramount+ provides a more focused approach for those who are primarily interested in CBS content and are willing to forgo a broad selection of other cable channels.

Individual Show Purchases/Rentals

For viewers who only watch a few specific CBS shows, purchasing or renting episodes or full seasons from digital storefronts like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, or Vudu might be an option. While this can be more expensive for frequent viewers, it offers a pay-as-you-go model for those who want specific content without a recurring subscription.

Considerations for Digital Purchases

When opting for digital purchases, consider the long-term cost. Buying entire seasons can add up quickly. It's also important to note that not all CBS content may be available for purchase immediately after airing, and some older shows might be exclusive to streaming platforms.

Historical Context: Dish's History with Carriage Disputes

The absence of CBS from DISH Network is not an isolated incident. DISH Network has a well-documented history of engaging in carriage disputes with various programmers and local stations. This pattern suggests a strategic approach by DISH to leverage these disputes to its advantage, whether to negotiate better rates, shed less popular channels, or use the situation for public relations. Understanding this historical context provides valuable insight into why such disputes are recurring and often prolonged.

A Pattern of Stalemates

Over the years, DISH has experienced numerous carriage disputes with major broadcasters and cable networks. These have included conflicts with:

• Sinclair Broadcast Group: A major owner of local TV stations, Sinclair has frequently been in disputes with DISH, leading to blackouts of local ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC affiliates across the country.
• Nexstar Media Group: Another large owner of local stations, Nexstar has also had contentious negotiations with DISH, resulting in the removal of its affiliated channels.
• Disney Networks: DISH has had disputes with Disney, which owns channels like ESPN, Disney Channel, FX, and National Geographic, impacting sports fans and families.
• Turner Networks: Channels like CNN, TBS, TNT, and Cartoon Network have also been subjects of DISH carriage disputes.
• ViacomCBS (now Paramount Global): Prior to the current CBS dispute, DISH has had past disagreements with ViacomCBS over its suite of cable channels.

These recurring disputes highlight a consistent theme: DISH often finds itself at odds with content providers over the cost of carriage.

DISH's Negotiation Tactics

DISH's approach to these negotiations is often characterized by a willingness to let channels go dark for extended periods. They frequently engage in public campaigns to rally subscriber support, framing themselves as the consumer's champion against rising costs. Their strategy often involves:

• Publicly blaming the programmer: DISH is adept at using press releases and on-screen messages to clearly state their position and attribute the blackout to the programmer's "unreasonable demands."
• Highlighting subscriber savings: They often emphasize that by not carrying certain channels, they can keep prices lower for their subscribers.
• Encouraging cord-cutting: While not explicitly stated, prolonged blackouts can sometimes push subscribers to consider alternative streaming options, which aligns with the broader industry trend of cord-cutting.

This aggressive stance has, at times, been successful in forcing programmers to concede to DISH's terms or accept less favorable deals than they might have with other distributors.

The Role of Local Stations

A significant portion of DISH's carriage disputes involve local broadcast television stations, often owned by large station groups like Sinclair or Nexstar. These disputes are particularly impactful because they affect local news and programming that many viewers consider essential. The retransmission fees demanded by these local stations have become a major cost center for distributors.

The "Must-Carry" Dilemma

Broadcasters argue that their local channels are "must-carry" channels due to their importance to local communities. Distributors like DISH often find themselves in a difficult position, as removing local channels can lead to significant subscriber backlash. However, the escalating fees associated with these local channels, especially when bundled with national network programming, can make them prohibitively expensive.

The Impact of Consolidation in the Media Industry

The media landscape has seen significant consolidation, with large corporations owning numerous broadcast networks, cable channels, and production studios. This consolidation gives these media giants more leverage in negotiations with distributors. Paramount Global, for instance, is a vast entity. When negotiating with DISH, they can potentially bundle the value of CBS with other popular cable channels, increasing their bargaining power. DISH, as a single distributor, faces these large conglomerates and must negotiate for access to a wide array of content.

Strategic Positioning

DISH's consistent engagement in carriage disputes can also be seen as a strategic move to position itself in the evolving media market. By demonstrating a willingness to stand firm against programmers, they may aim to attract price-sensitive customers who are wary of rising pay-TV bills. They might also be signaling to programmers that they are not afraid to let content go dark, thereby influencing future negotiation terms across the industry.

The Evolving Landscape: Future of Broadcast TV Distribution

The carriage dispute between CBS and DISH is a microcosm of the broader shifts occurring in the television industry. The traditional model of broadcast and cable distribution is being challenged by the rise of streaming services, changing consumer habits, and evolving technology. The future of how content like CBS is distributed will likely be shaped by these ongoing transformations.

The Rise of Streaming and Cord-Cutting

Streaming services, from Netflix and Amazon Prime Video to live TV alternatives like YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV, have fundamentally altered how people consume television. The convenience, flexibility, and often lower cost of streaming options have led to a significant increase in "cord-cutting" – the practice of canceling traditional cable or satellite subscriptions.

Impact on Traditional Distributors

For distributors like DISH, this trend presents a dual challenge. Firstly, they are losing subscribers to streaming alternatives. Secondly, the remaining subscribers are often more price-sensitive and less tolerant of rising costs. This puts immense pressure on DISH to control its own expenses, including the retransmission fees it pays to broadcasters. The ability to carry or drop channels becomes a critical factor in their ability to remain competitive.

Broadcasters Adapting to the Digital Age

Broadcasters are not standing still. They are also adapting to the new media landscape. Paramount Global, for instance, has invested heavily in its own streaming service, Paramount+. This allows them to monetize their content directly with consumers, bypassing traditional distributors to some extent.

Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) Strategies

The success of DTC strategies like Paramount+ means that broadcasters have more options beyond relying solely on carriage fees from distributors. If negotiations with a distributor become too unfavorable, a broadcaster can potentially absorb the loss of carriage revenue by focusing on growing its direct subscriber base. This shifts the power dynamic in negotiations, as distributors may no longer hold exclusive access to a broadcaster's content.

The Future of Retransmission Fees

The role and future of retransmission fees are subjects of ongoing debate. As more viewers migrate to streaming, the value of traditional broadcast signals to pay-TV providers may diminish. However, local broadcast stations remain vital for local news and community information, giving them continued leverage.

Potential for New Distribution Models

It's possible that new distribution models will emerge. This could include:

• Hybrid Models: A combination of broadcast, cable, and streaming offerings, where consumers can pick and choose components.
• Content Licensing Shifts: Broadcasters might license their content to streaming platforms more extensively, rather than relying solely on carriage fees.
• Regulatory Changes: Government regulations could play a role in how retransmission fees are structured or negotiated in the future.

The current dispute highlights the friction between legacy distribution models and the emerging digital ecosystem.

The Consumer's Role in the Future

Ultimately, consumer behavior will drive the future of content distribution. As viewers become more accustomed to choosing their own content and paying for it directly, the demand for bundled, all-inclusive packages may decrease. This will force both broadcasters and distributors to innovate and offer more flexible, consumer-centric solutions. The ability to access CBS content without a DISH subscription, through antennas or streaming, demonstrates this shift.

Conclusion: Navigating the Loss of CBS on DISH

The removal of CBS from DISH Network is a complex issue rooted in the evolving economics of media distribution and the persistent challenges of retransmission fee negotiations. At its core, the dispute stems from a fundamental disagreement over the value of CBS's programming and the cost of its carriage. DISH, facing increasing pressure to control subscriber costs in an era of abundant streaming alternatives, has historically adopted an aggressive stance against what it perceives as exorbitant fees demanded by broadcasters. CBS, as a major content producer with valuable programming and a significant audience, seeks fair compensation for its investments, arguing that its content drives viewership and thus holds substantial value.

For DISH subscribers, the immediate consequence is the loss of access to popular network shows, live sports, and local news. While frustrating, this situation underscores the broader trends impacting the television industry, including the rise of streaming services and the ongoing shift in consumer viewing habits. Fortunately, several viable alternatives exist for those who wish to continue watching CBS. Over-the-air antennas offer a free, albeit sometimes variable, solution for local channels. Live TV streaming services provide a comprehensive replacement for traditional cable packages, often including local CBS affiliates. Furthermore, Paramount+, CBS's own streaming platform, offers direct access to a wealth of CBS content, including live feeds in many markets.

DISH's history of carriage disputes suggests this is not an anomaly but a recurring strategy in their business model. As the media landscape continues to transform, the traditional distribution models will undoubtedly face further challenges. Consumers are increasingly empowered to curate their own entertainment experiences, demanding flexibility and value. Therefore, the future of content distribution will likely involve more direct-to-consumer offerings and hybrid models that cater to these evolving preferences. For DISH subscribers, understanding the reasons behind the CBS blackout and exploring the available alternatives are the most effective ways to navigate this disruption and ensure continued access to the programming they enjoy.