DISH TV customers nationwide and in South Carolina are experiencing channel blackouts involving Gray Media stations. The broadcasting company has pulled 226 local channels in 113 markets amid a disagreement over potential rate increases.
Gray Media operates stations in Columbia, Charleston, Greenville and Myrtle Beach.
DISH and Gray are disputing how much the cable provider should pay to carry Gray's local television stations. According to DISH, Gray is asking for too much money and "stalling negotiations just hours before contract expiration."
In a news release Wednesday, Gray boasts its track record of fair and reasonable distribution negotiations, saying it has never had its signals dropped by a satellite provider.
How to access programing
Most affected channels are broadcast for free over the air. Customers can use a digital antenna to directly access these channels.
Many local network programs are available through direct-to-customer apps like Peacock, Paramount+ and network specific streaming sites.
DISH customers can access more information and updates online.