After warnings that Paramount content might be removed from YouTube TV, a last-minute deal has been reached to keep the channels available on Googleโs pay-TV service. The agreement announced late on Saturday, ensures subscribers will continue accessing popular networks such as CBS, CBS Sports, and Nickelodeon without disruption.
Expanded streaming partnership
While details of the new contract remain unclear, a Paramount spokesperson confirmed that the deal includes an โexpanded streaming relationship.โ This means that YouTube Primetime Channels will still offer Paramount+ as a streaming option, with Showtime and BET+ available as add-ons. Additionally, Google has โthe right to make Paramount+ available to qualifying YouTube TV customers.โ
Google acknowledged the agreement in its statement, saying, โWeโre happy to share that weโve reached a deal to continue carrying Paramount channels, including CBS, CBS Sports, Nickelodeon, and more. To our subscribers, we appreciate your patience while we negotiated on your behalf.โ
Intense contract negotiations
The deal comes after tense negotiations between Google and Paramount. YouTube TV has had similar contract disputes, including one with Disney. Earlier this month, Google warned that all Paramount content would be removed from the platform by February 13 if a new contract was not reached. A short-term extension was granted while both sides worked towards a resolution.
During the negotiations, Google stated that it was pushing for an agreement to avoid additional costs for subscribers while providing more flexibility in how they watch their favourite shows and sports. Many pay-TV providers have been trying to negotiate better terms that allow for more customisable channel bundles, especially at the basic subscription level.
Paramount pushes back
Paramountโs leadership was vocal about the situation, criticising Google for what they described as an unfair approach to negotiations. In an internal memo to employees, co-CEOs George Cheeks, Chris McCarthy, and Brian Robbins accused Google of being โunwilling to agree to reasonable terms consistent with the market, choosing to jeopardise the entertainment experience at the expense of consumers.โ
The memo also stated, โThe reality is, you canโt have a successful video product without Paramount, one of the leading media families in TV viewing.โ
With the new agreement, YouTube TV subscribers can rest assured that their access to Paramountโs content will continue without interruption.
