Gray Television has reached agreements with The Walt Disney Company that will extend and renew all of its network affiliations for ABC-affiliated television stations in 25 markets through December 31, 2028. The new deal extends the relationship between both companies, maintaining accessibility of ABC network programming, such as sitcoms, sports and news content, along with local programming from Gray. This agreement covers several marketplaces throughout the United States, some of which include Tampa-St. Petersburg, Sioux Falls, Gainesville and Rapid City.
“We are pleased to announce the further extension of our decades-long relationship with Disney for ABC station affiliations,” Pat LaPlatney, president and co-chief executive officer of Gray Television, said in a statement. “These agreements recognize our ABC affiliates’ commitment to public service and will help them continue to serve their communities.”
Gray Television currently serves 113 television markets that reach an approximate 36% of U.S. television households. The company portfolio includes 77 markets with the top-rated television station and also includes various other media properties, including Gray Digital Media, Raycom Sports and PowerNation Studios. Several presentations of Monday Night Football with play-by-play announcer Joe Buck, analyst Troy Aikman and reporter Lisa Salters have been simulcast on ABC stations throughout the 2024 NFL season.
“Disney/ABC is incredibly proud of our long-established partnership with Gray to serve 25 outstanding communities across the country,” Susi D’Ambra-Coplan, senior vice president of affiliate relations at The Walt Disney Company, said in a statement. “With this new agreement, we couldn’t be more pleased to pair our best-in-class network shows, news and sports with their invaluable local programming for many years to come.”
