Michigan TV Stations Blacked Out on DISH Network

Dispute between DISH and Gray Media leaves viewers without local channels

Mar. 21, 2026 at 11:22am

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DISH Network customers in Michigan have lost access to several local TV stations owned by Gray Media after the two companies failed to renew their contract. The blackout affects NBC, CBS, and ABC affiliates in the Lansing, Saginaw, and Negaunee markets, as well as a Toledo station. Both DISH and Gray Media are blaming the other side for the impasse, leaving viewers without their favorite local programming.

Why it matters

This contract dispute highlights the ongoing tensions between TV providers and local broadcast networks over programming fees. Viewers are often caught in the middle, losing access to important local news, sports, and entertainment content when these negotiations break down. The blackout also raises questions about the future of local TV and how consumers will access this content as the media landscape continues to evolve.

The details

The contract between DISH Network and Gray Media expired on March 10, 2026, leading the satellite provider to drop several Gray-owned stations from its lineup. The affected channels include WILX-TV 10 (NBC, Lansing), WNEM TV5 (CBS, Saginaw), WLUC TV6 (NBC, Negaunee), and 13 ABC (Toledo). In total, 226 Gray Media-owned stations have been blacked out nationwide due to the dispute.

  • The contract between DISH Network and Gray Media expired on March 10, 2026.

The players

DISH Network

A major satellite television provider in the United States.

Gray Media

A media company that owns and operates several local television stations across the country, including in Michigan.

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What they’re saying

“DISH demanded some never-before-seen contract terms and didn't negotiate in good faith.”

— Gray Media

“Gray wanted unreasonable fee increases that would've jacked up your bill.”

— DISH Network

What’s next

There is no clear end date for the blackout yet, but these types of disputes can last for weeks or even months before being resolved.

The takeaway

This contract dispute between DISH Network and Gray Media highlights the ongoing challenges consumers face in accessing local television content as the media landscape continues to evolve. While viewers have alternative options to watch their local stations, the blackout underscores the need for more transparency and cooperation between TV providers and broadcasters to ensure customers have reliable access to important local programming.