DIRECTV is one of the few service providers that doesn’t carry EPIX channel. But Viacom seems to want to force them to add it their lineup — at least according to a DIRECTV statement. The satcaster says they are ready to sign an agreement to bring back the 17 networks currently in a blackout, but that Viacom wants the carriage agreement to include EPIX channel at an additional cost of $500 million. Viacom denies that amount and responded by saying “In sharp contrast to DirecTV’s public spin, it’s now clear that they have no intention of working with us…” Either way, both parties are potentially losing business by forcing viewers to look elsewhere for content. (How have subscribers been getting by without MTV’s Snooki & JWOWW?) EPIX is a partnership venture between Lionsgate, MGM, and Paramount Pictures (a Viacom company.) [Editor’s Note: DIRECTV refers to 17 channels involved in the blackout, while Viacom uses to the number 26.]
Sources:
http://news.directv.com
http://blog.viacom.com/
