Charter Spectrum and NBCU’s carriage deal shows the new state of TV power dynamics

The news: Charter Spectrum signed a new carriage deal with NBCUniversal that includes free access to Peacock for TV Select plan customers. With that addition, Charter Spectrum now offers over $60 worth of streaming services for customers, including Disney+, Hulu, Vix+, Paramount+, and more.

The lengthy list of streaming partners reflects the new balance of power in TV, with streaming services operating as the most significant forces in the industry.

Clash and consensus: Last fall, Charter Spectrum and Disney clashed over carriage fees, resulting in Disney blocking access to ESPN, ABC, and other channels during crucial broadcast periods. In the end, Charter Spectrum agreed to a deal that gave its customers free access to Disney+ and Hulu with ads.