After warnings that Paramount content was set to disappear from YouTube TV, the two companies announced late Saturday that they had reached a deal to maintain access to Paramount’s channels, avoiding any disruption for subscribers.
Agreement Includes an “Expanded Streaming Relationship”
While the specifics of the deal remain undisclosed, a Paramount spokesperson stated that it includes an “expanded streaming relationship.” This means that not only will YouTube Primetime Channels continue to offer Paramount+, with Showtime and BET+ as add-ons, but Google has also secured the right to make Paramount+ available to qualifying YouTube TV customers.
YouTube TV Avoids Another Content Dispute
Google has faced high-profile contract disputes with media companies in the past, including Disney. In its official statement, the company confirmed the deal:
“We’re happy to share that we’ve reached a deal to continue carrying Paramount channels, including CBS, CBS Sports, Nickelodeon, and more … To our subscribers, we appreciate your patience while we negotiated on your behalf.”
Previously, Google warned that all Paramount content, including CBS and CBS Sports, would be removed from YouTube TV on February 13, before a short-term extension signaled the possibility of an agreement.
The Battle Over Streaming Costs and Bundles
Google had positioned itself as fighting to avoid passing additional costs to subscribers while pushing for more flexibility in how content is bundled. Meanwhile, Paramount executives had criticized Google’s stance, with co-CEOs George Cheeks, Chris McCarthy, and Brian Robbins calling the company “unwilling to agree to reasonable terms.”
In an internal memo to employees, they emphasized Paramount’s strong market presence:
“The reality is, you can’t have a successful video product without Paramount, one of the leading media families in TV viewing.”
What This Means for Subscribers
With the deal in place, YouTube TV subscribers will continue to have uninterrupted access to CBS, CBS Sports, Nickelodeon, and other Paramount channels, while also potentially gaining expanded streaming options through Paramount+ integration.
