A Major Cable TV Provider is Shutting Down

Media and Telecommunications News

• Optimum’s financial trouble: Mid-sized cable provider Optimum is reportedly close to a deal that would hand control to creditors, including JPMorgan and Apollo Global Management. The company carries more than $21 billion in debt and has lost over half its TV customers since its peak, along with internet subscribers. The host described this as part of a broader shift, dubbed “cord-cutting 2.0,” in which cable companies of all sizes are struggling as customers leave both pay TV and traditional broadband providers.

• AT&T adds home-internet customers: AT&T reported a record 769,000 net home-internet additions in the third quarter of 2026: 442,000 fiber customers and 327,000 fixed-wireless customers. The host said the figures point to strong demand for alternatives to cable, while noting that AT&T is also moving customers off its legacy copper network. Upcoming results from other providers, including T-Mobile and Verizon, may help show how quickly fixed wireless is growing.

• BBC cost cutting: The BBC is seeking £500 million in annual savings and announced the closure or transition of several services, including Radio 1, Radio 4 Extra, BBC Three, and BBC Scotland. Some content will move to BBC iPlayer. The host framed the changes as a response to budget pressure and changing viewing habits.

• Copyright ruling: The U.S. Supreme Court rejected an effort by major music companies to extend U.S. copyright protection worldwide, stating that U.S. jurisdiction does not reach the entire world. Although the case concerns music, the host said the ruling could have implications for video and other media rights.

• Atlanta Hawks on Prime Video: Amazon Prime Video will stream local broadcasts of Atlanta Hawks games, making the team a notable addition to Amazon’s sports offerings. The host expects more teams to pursue streaming deals as Amazon expands its role in sports.

• Lionsgate reportedly for sale: Reports say Lionsgate may soon be sold, with potential buyers showing interest. The host noted that the move follows other smaller and mid-sized entertainment companies seeking buyers, after Lionsgate built a substantial film and TV library.

• Netflix and streaming bundles: Netflix reported its slowest revenue growth in three years amid rising costs and staff cuts. After its attempt to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery failed, the company discussed sports and ways to help subscribers access and manage multiple streaming services. The host said Netflix is looking to diversify its offerings.

• Walmart+ and Sam’s Club: Walmart announced a bundle costing about $120 per year that combines Walmart+ and Sam’s Club Plus. It includes shipping benefits and a choice of Peacock or Paramount+ at a time, among other perks.

• DirecTV free channels: DirecTV added four free channels, including sports offerings from Yahoo Sports, DP World Tour, and MotoGP, as well as the F1 channel.

Presenter

Luke Bouma