Last updated on April 1, 2026, at 2:30 p.m. ET
On Wednesday morning, Xfinity subscribers to WXYZ-TV (Channel 7) were met with a situation that initially seemed like an April Fool’s joke.
A notice displayed on their screens stated, “This channel is unavailable.”
However, this turned out not to be a jest.
The on-screen Xfinity message explained, “Our agreement with Scripps, the proprietor of this channel, has lapsed. Scripps has declined our fair proposals, and their requests would substantially raise your costs. We appreciate your patience as we strive to maintain affordable channel access for you.”
Both WXYZ and WYMD-TV (Channel 20) in Detroit are among the stations affected by an Xfinity service interruption impacting 19 Scripps territories. Xfinity reported that Comcast’s contractual arrangement with Scripps concluded at 5:59 p.m. Eastern time on Tuesday, March 31. Notably, in the Miami region, the Florida Panthers-Ottawa Senators game was abruptly disconnected for viewers during its live broadcast.
Scripps issued a statement affirming, “Scripps is deeply committed to our public service role within the communities we serve. Our local stations offer vital on-the-ground news, urgent weather alerts, and live sports broadcasts that ensure public safety and keep individuals informed about essential daily events.”
This notification appeared for Comcast ABC subscribers in Metro Detroit on Tuesday evening, just as they anticipated tuning in for the primetime programs “Will Trent” and “High Potential.”
Scripps further stated, “We have engaged in good-faith negotiations to secure an agreement that acknowledges our worth and is equitable for both organizations and their audience. We urge Comcast to acknowledge the crucial role we play for our communities and reinstate our station signals, allowing us to resume serving their subscribers. In the interim, Xfinity subscribers can still access our local news and sports content without cost via an antenna, through our station websites, dedicated streaming applications, and alternative local cable and satellite providers.”
A report on WXYZ’s website provided alternative viewing methods for the channel: over-the-air via an antenna, through streaming applications, or via other broadcast platforms.
Via its Facebook page, the station extended an apology to viewers for the disruption.
The station posted, “We apologize for the interruption of service for Comcast Xfinity customers,” and requested that those affected by the blackout reach out to Comcast directly at 1-800-934-6489.
Correction: This article has been revised to reflect the precise time when the Comcast-Scripps agreement concluded.