Drawing from theories of the political economy of communication, this book offers readers a comprehensive data-rich assessment of contemporary sports television and its evolution. Providing an in-depth look at the ownership and regulation of sports television in the United States, William M. Kunz analyzes a range of platforms, networks, and sports, with particular focus on the way ownership has become concentrated in five conglomerates: AT&T, CBS, Comcast, Disney and Fox. The end result of years of media consolidation is that broadcast networks are now married to cable and streaming services under a single conglomerate, which has implications for the cost of contracts and the negotiation of distribution deals. Examining multiple platforms, networks and sports in an all-inclusive manner, this volume documents the evolution and current state of affairs of sports television. With historic and current data on rights fees for sports television leagues and events as well as carriage fees and subscription levels for sports-related cable and satellite services, this comparative study offers critical information for students and scholars conducting research on sports television.
Author(s): William M. Kunz
Publisher: Routledge
Year: 2020
Language: English
Pages: 176
Dedication
Contents
List of Tables
Acknowledgments
1 Introduction
2 Conglomeration of Sports Television Networks and Services
3 National Multi-Sport Networks
4 National Single Sport, League, and Conference Networks
5 Regional Sports Networks
6 Streaming and Out-of-Market Services
7 Conclusion
Index