NBCUniversal and Google have reached a mulityear distribution agreement to keep NBC and NBCU’s suite of other networks on YouTube TV.
In addition to the current NBCU slate, under YouTube TV deal renewal, the streaming service will carry the newly relaunched NBC Sports Network (NBCSN). NBCU said that the new NBCSN, to launch later this fall, “will complement the prominent sports properties presented year-round on the NBC broadcast network.” The company had previously shut down NBCSN in 2021.
The deal announcement Thursday came after the companies’ previous agreement expired Sept. 30; the parties reached a short-term extension to hammer out final details. YouTube TV is the U.S.’s biggest internet pay-TV service, with an estimated 9.5 million customers as of the end of 2024, according to research firm MoffettNathanson.
The agreement continues YouTube TV’s carriage of NBCUniversal’s full portfolio of networks, including NBC, Telemundo, Bravo, CNBC, Golf Channel, E!, Oxygen True Crime, MSNBC, USA, Syfy and Universo. The company’s cable networks (excluding Bravo) will be part of the Versant spin-off, in a transaction expected to close by the end of 2025.
In addition, the deal calls for Peacock to be available in the coming months as a subscription through YouTube Primetime Channels. The companies also entered into a multiyear extension of Peacock’s availability across Google’s Android platforms, including Google Play and Google TV.
“Our new agreement with Google is a clear win for both our business and our viewers – underscoring the enduring value of our must-see shows, films, sports, and live events while expanding our reach to even more audiences,” said Matt Schnaars, President of Platform Distribution & Partnerships at NBCUniversal. “We’ve secured long-term access to our full portfolio of broadcast and cable networks on YouTube TV, and we’re advancing our Peacock strategy with an upcoming launch on YouTube Primetime Channels and ongoing presence on Google TV. This agreement positions us for continued growth and reflects our commitment to delivering exceptional entertainment to fans across platforms.”
“This deal builds on our long-standing partnership with NBCU while addressing the evolving media landscape and recognizing the importance of making content available where and how viewers want to watch it,” said Justin Connolly, Vice President, Global Head of Media & Sports at YouTube. “We are pleased to have reached this agreement and look forward to continuing our partnership to serve billions of viewers around the world.”