Disney Super Bowl broadcast strategy upsets local ABC affiliates

Local ABC affiliates owned by major station groups such as Sinclair, Nexstar, and Tegna are reportedly frustrated with Disney’s fragmented distribution plan for Super Bowl LXI in February 2027. Unlike previous years where CBS, Fox, and NBC split the broadcast without heavy simulcasting on cable, Disney intends to air the game across a wide array of platforms including ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, NFL Network, Disney+, Disney Channel, and Disney XD.

This multi-channel approach includes various alternate broadcasts, such as the ManningCast on ESPN2, Pat McAfee’s Field Pass on ESPNU, an analytics-focused feed on NFL Network, and a Star Wars-themed version on Disney Channel and Disney XD. The traditional broadcast featuring Joe Buck and Troy Aikman will be simulcast on both ABC and ESPN.

Affiliates expressed concerns regarding the loss of local advertising revenue, which can account for approximately 3% of a station's annual income. One station group CEO estimated that local advertising revenue tied to the game could drop by 35 percent compared to previous years. In response, a Disney spokesperson stated that making marquee live events available via streaming is a “well-established industry practice” and noted that the company considers its affiliates important partners.