Santa Monica, Calif. – October 01, 2026 -- Verizon Fios has removed all STARZ channels, STARZ On Demand and the STARZ app from its service after the two companies failed to reach a renewal agreement, cutting off subscriber access to the premium network's full programming slate.
STARZ Accuses Verizon of Refusing to Negotiate in Good Faith
Alison Hoffman, President of STARZ Networks, said Verizon "mischaracterized" the company's position and was "unproductive in progressing towards a mutually beneficial outcome" during the renewal talks. STARZ said it remains open to a deal that would restore service to Verizon customers.
Fios Subscribers Lose Access to Flagship Franchises
The blackout strips Verizon Fios customers of STARZ-exclusive titles including the "Power" Universe and upcoming spinoff "Power: Origins," new drama "Fightland," all seasons of "Outlander" and its prequel "Outlander: Blood of my Blood," the upcoming season of "P-Valley," the current season of "S.W.A.T. Exiles," and the forthcoming premiere of "Tip Toe." Fios customers have also lost STARZ's film library, including the title "Michael."
Dispute Highlights Pressure on Independent Programmers
Hoffman positioned STARZ (NASDAQ: STRZ) as one of the few remaining independent entertainment companies operating in a distribution market increasingly controlled by large media and telecommunications conglomerates. The carriage dispute leaves Fios subscribers without access to programming the network says is unavailable through any other distributor, while STARZ risks losing a distribution footprint during the standoff.