WXYZ-TV Blacked Out for Comcast Xfinity Users Due to Carrier Dispute A blackout of WXYZ-TV and other Scripps-owned channels affected Comcast Xfinity users across 19 markets, including Detroit and Miami, as the carrier’s contract with Scripps expired on Tuesday, March 31, 2026. The outage began at 5:59 p.m. Eastern time, leaving viewers unable to access their favorite programming. A message on affected screens read, “This channel is unavailable,” with an explanation from Xfinity stating that the contract with Scripps had expired and that the carrier’s negotiations had stalled. The message added, “Scripps has refused our reasonable offers, and their demands would significantly increase the price you pay. Thank you for your patience as we work to keep your channels affordable.” The blackout disrupted programming for thousands of subscribers, including those in Metro Detroit who were expecting to watch primetime shows like “Will Trent” and “High Potential.” In Miami, the Florida Panthers-Ottawa Senators game was cut off mid-broadcast, leaving fans in suspense. The incident highlighted the broader impact of the dispute, which affected 19 Scripps markets, including stations such as WYMD-TV (Channel 20) in Detroit. The outage underscored the reliance of millions of viewers on cable providers for live sports and news coverage. Scripps, the owner of the affected channels, issued a statement emphasizing its commitment to public service. The company noted, “Scripps takes our public service responsibility to serve our communities seriously. Our stations provide on-the-ground reporting, real-time severe weather updates, and live sports coverage that keep people safe and connected to what matters most in their daily lives.#comcast_xfinity #scripps #wxyz_tv #wydm_tv #florida_panthers_ottawa_senators_game
