Overview
- Disney is moving forward with a wide distribution for Super Bowl LXI that will show the ESPN-produced game on ABC, ESPN, Disney+, ESPN2, ESPNU, NFL Network, Disney Channel/XD, the ESPN app and ESPN Deportes.
- Local ABC station owners have raised objections at the affiliate board, arguing the many viewing options will fragment the audience and reduce the value of local spots.
- One anonymous station-group CEO told reporters the plan could lower local broadcast ad revenue by about 35%, a figure that has helped drive boardside talks about seeking compensation.
- Disney says nationally sold commercials will run the same across platforms and notes one Star Wars-themed alt-cast will be ad-free, but Disney+ typically lacks technology for local ad insertion that would let affiliates monetize streaming viewers.
- The stakes are substantial because the Super Bowl is a major annual revenue source for stations—big-market affiliates have taken in roughly $10 million in past years—and the dispute could shape future retransmission fee and rights negotiations.