YouTube TV rejects free carriage of Great American Family programming

In November 2024, Great American Family, a network offering family-oriented content, remained unavailable on YouTube TV, despite efforts by network executives to negotiate a presence on the platform. According to Abbott, a spokesperson for Great American Family, the network has proposed various options for carriage, including offers to provide their content free of charge, yet YouTube TV has not approved these. This situation has led Abbott to express hope that YouTube TV eventually recognizes the network's audience value and quality of content focused on family, faith, and country. The Great American Family network has emphasized its commitment to providing uplifting entertainment, which resonates with its audience's values, especially in light of recent events, including the 2024 presidential election results. Abbott suggested that the network's content aligns with what people seek in entertainment, referencing that the election reflected a growing preference for programming that emphasizes traditional values. The network continues to broadcast its content across multiple streaming services and cable venues, but YouTube TV remains a significant absence in its distribution strategy. As the holiday season approaches, Abbott noted that the network has a lineup of family-friendly Christmas films scheduled for release, including a drama titled 'I Heard the Bells' centered on Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and the inspiration behind his famous poem. However, the ongoing negotiations with YouTube TV raise questions about future collaborations and the potential expansion of the network’s audience. Abbott conveyed that it is crucial for YouTube TV to understand the strengths of Great American Family's offerings, especially as they aim to attract viewers looking for wholesome and faith-oriented entertainment. In conclusion, the standoff in negotiations highlights broader issues around streaming service content availability and the challenges networks face in expanding their reach. As the situation develops, it remains to be seen if Great American Family will successfully secure a deal to feature its content on YouTube TV, which would potentially increase their visibility and audience engagement.