The dispute between Disney and DirectTV continues with Disney having pulled its channels from DirectTV. This week, Disney released a statement saying that DirectTV “continues to misrepresent the facts.”
A statement was released on Wednesday by Dana Walden and Alan Bergman, co-chairmen, Disney Entertainment, and Jimmy Pitaro, chairman, ESPN, regarding the dispute. Here is the statement:
DirecTV continues to misrepresent the facts around our ongoing negotiations. Our priority is to reach a marketplace deal that serves the needs of DirecTV and their customers while also recognizing the value of our top-quality content and the significant investment required to create and acquire it. We believe there is a path to a fair and flexible agreement that strikes this critical balance and works for all sides, especially the consumer.
A Disney spokesperson added that “the value of Disney’s portfolio is indisputable as more than 90% of DirecTV households watched its linear programming every month last year – the highest performing on their platform (according to Nielsen).” Along with that, “Disney continues to meaningfully invest in its linear channels and almost all linear content is exclusive to or premieres on Disney’s networks including live sports and events.”
Disney has suggested DirectTV offer packages that allow consumers to have more choice and control. This could include being able to subscribe to sports, entertainment, or pairing linear offerings with direct-to-consumer subscriptions.
Disney says that it is asking for rates that are in line with other distribution providers in the marketplace and that reflect the value of Disney’s content. The company says it has also offered multiple options to connect its platforms with Disney’s direct-to-consumer streaming services.
For those who don’t want to miss out on ESPN offerings during this dispute, Disney is pointing viewers to KeepMyESPN.com.
