Local TV News Roundup: Merger Paused, Cash Back at WKBW

Buffalo market sees changes in station ownership, programming, and coverage

Mar. 30, 2026 at 11:36pm

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An abstract, minimalist illustration featuring sharp, geometric shapes in black, white, and red, conveying the dynamic changes and adaptations in the local TV industry.Pergament's column offers a glimpse into the evolving landscape of local television in Western New York.NYC Today

Media columnist Alan Pergament provides an update on the latest developments in the Western New York local television landscape, including a pause in a planned station merger, the return of cash giveaways at WKBW, and a shift in sports coverage for the Buffalo market.

Why it matters

The local TV news industry in Buffalo is undergoing significant changes, with implications for how residents access news, information, and entertainment programming. These updates provide insight into the competitive dynamics and business decisions shaping the market.

The details

Pergament reports that a planned merger between two local TV stations has been put on hold, though the details around the delay are unclear. Additionally, WKBW-TV has reinstated its popular 'Cash Back' giveaway program, which had been discontinued in recent years. Finally, the market is seeing a shift in sports coverage, with less emphasis on the 'No Kings' mantra that had previously defined the region's approach to professional basketball.

  • The merger between local TV stations has been paused as of March 2026.
  • WKBW-TV recently reintroduced its 'Cash Back' viewer giveaway program.

The players

Alan Pergament

A media columnist who covers the local television industry in Western New York.

WKBW-TV

A local ABC affiliate television station serving the Buffalo, New York market.

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The takeaway

The Buffalo television market is experiencing a period of flux, with changes in station ownership, programming strategies, and sports coverage that will impact how local residents consume news and entertainment. These developments underscore the competitive and evolving nature of the local media landscape.