Disney, Charter renew vows

Disney has inked what it has described as a “comprehensive long-term distribution agreement” with US cable operator Charter Communications.

The carriage renewal covers rights to Disney sports, news and entertainment content across televisions, computers, smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles and internet-enabled televisions.

As part of the new multi-year deal, The Longhorn Network will launch on Texas, Louisiana and Virginia systems by the start of football season this year.

Charter and Disney will also introduce several new services, including the full suite of authenticated Watch products, ESPN Goal Line, ESPN Buzzer Beater, plus the full range of ABC on-demand services.

The deal also covers the upcoming ABC/Univision joint venture, a 24/7 news, information and lifestyle multi-platform network for English-dominant and bilingual Hispanics.

“This agreement enables us to offer our customers additional value, choice and convenience,” said Allan Singer, Charter’s senior VP of programming. “More and more content is being enjoyed on tablets and other internet-connected devices, and today’s viewers are sharing their TV experiences in new ways. Our agreement with Disney enables more robust ways to enjoy and socialise TV.”