Nexstar CEO Criticizes DirecTV Amid Tegna Merger Challenges
Nexstar CEO Perry Sook Rips DirecTV In Tegna Merger Battle, Says “Two Or Three Companies” Will Soon Control All Of Local TV: “It’s A Matter Of Time”
Deadline
Image: Deadline
Nexstar CEO Perry Sook criticized DirecTV for opposing the $6.2 billion merger with Tegna, highlighting the competitive landscape dominated by larger companies like Amazon and Google. He warned that only a few companies will control local TV in the future, as Nexstar appeals a federal judge's ruling blocking the merger.
- 01Nexstar's merger with Tegna is facing legal challenges from DirecTV and state attorneys general.
- 02Sook argues that DirecTV is a larger player, undermining claims of Nexstar as a 'broadcast behemoth.'
- 03The local broadcast industry is at a critical juncture, with potential consolidation on the horizon.
- 04Nexstar aims to appeal the judge's decision and remains confident in its legal standing.
- 05The merger could significantly increase Nexstar's reach to 80% of U.S. households.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
In a recent interview at the NAB Show in Las Vegas, Nexstar CEO Perry Sook addressed the legal hurdles facing the company's $6.2 billion merger with Tegna, particularly criticizing DirecTV, which is among the plaintiffs opposing the deal. Sook stated that the term 'broadcast behemoth' inaccurately describes Nexstar, especially when compared to tech giants like Amazon, Google, and Meta, as well as DirecTV itself, which he noted is twice Nexstar's size. He pointed out that 83% of retransmission disputes leading to blackouts occurred on DirecTV systems, suggesting a pattern of behavior that undermines negotiations with smaller broadcasters. Sook also commented on the broader industry landscape, indicating that he expects only 'two or three companies' to dominate local TV in the future. The merger, which would increase Nexstar's reach to 80% of U.S. households, is currently in limbo following a federal judge's ruling. Nexstar is appealing this decision to the Ninth Circuit appellate court, with Sook expressing confidence in their legal position.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
If the merger is successful, it could reshape the landscape of local television, affecting viewers' access to content and the competitive dynamics among broadcasters.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
Do you support the Nexstar-Tegna merger?
Connecting to poll...
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.

