Update on June 2:
TDS and AMC Networks (AMC, BBC America, BBC World, IFC, Sundance TV and WeTV) did not agree to acceptable contract terms. Therefore, effective June 10, AMC Networks will no longer be part of your channel line-up.
TDS is taking a stand. AMC Networks indicated it will release new episodes of its original series and shows early or even exclusively on the AMC+ app. Fans of its popular programming would then need to wait for shows to air on TV, and/or pay a monthly fee to watch via the app. We find this unacceptable. We want to ensure your favorite AMC programs remain available as you’ve come to expect.
Update on May 1:
AMC channels remain on the air while TDS reviews the terms of the agreement with AMC Networks. Please check back for updates.
April 29
TDS along with hundreds of other TV operators across the country, are in contract negotiations with AMC Networks. Our contract with AMC expires at 11:59 p.m. on Saturday, May 1, 2021 and impacts the following channels: AMC, BBC America, IFC, BBC World News, WE tv, and Sundance TV.
As with every contract negotiation, TDS is looking for a fair and reasonable agreement. Unfortunately, AMC is asking for rate increases that exceeds the traditional cost of living increases. We have appealed to AMC to come to the table with an equitable offer that is affordable for our customers. TDS refuses to agree to terms that force unreasonable cost increases, which ultimately get passed down to our customers.
In addition, AMC is not agreeing with the terms that their original series shows continue to be made available to traditional cable customers. Why this impacts customers is that AMC could put all their new original series on the AMC+ app, which will require customers to pay AMC an additional monthly fee to watch this content. It is very clear that AMC’s interest has shifted from their traditional cable TV customers to only those who are willing to pay them directly for their AMC+ app.
If an agreement is not reached by Saturday, May 1 at 11:59 p.m., TDS may be forced to remove the AMC suite of channels.
Please check back here for updates on these contract negotiations with AMC Networks.