D’oh! Fox TV Is Leaving Twin Falls

In an extremely unfortunate change of events - Fox TV is scheduled to stop broadcasting in Twin Falls as of July 1st! This news comes just days after all the big networks announced their Fall 2012-2013 renewals and cancellations. So, what does that mean for you? Well, if you like American Idol or Animation Domination with Simpsons, family Guy, and American Dad or if you like COPS or Glee, Bones, or New Girl - You Are Out Of Luck! That's right, no Idol or Simpsons in Twin Falls this summer! This could all change later on if another station should choose to pick up the broadcasting and work out a deal with FOX...but for now, the Magic Valley will be FOXless.

Read the Press Release below, and let us know how you feel about the loss.

Twin Falls’ KXTF moves away from FOX Programming

As of July 1^st, 2012, KXTF will no longer broadcast FOX Network programming. The FOX Network and KXTF have been unsuccessful in negotiating a new affiliate contract set to expire June 30, 2012.

According to KXTF General Manager, Shelley Goings, the network is demanding compensation from the station that exceeds its current revenue.  Goings stated that the station has attempted to negotiate with FOX for many months, but the network has been unwilling to budge from its demands.   Goings is disappointed to see her station lose FOX programming, but she said, “We have no choice.  The rates being demanded by FOX in small markets are not seen anywhere else within the industry, including other major broadcast networks.”

The issue comes down to retransmission fees.   The network believes it should be compensated by local affiliates for the right to have its programming retransmitted in their markets.   It uses a formula based on the market’s total number of cable and satellite subscribers to determine the amount of compensation.  In the case of KXTF’s FOX 35, the retransmission fees are higher than the advertising revenue the station currently brings in.

Similarly, in 2011, Boise’s KTRV chose not to renew its license with FOX over retransmission fees.

FOX programming includes hit shows such as American Idol, The Simpsons, and Glee; and major sporting events like NFL football, the Daytona 500, and the World Series.   At this point it is unclear if there will be a way for residents of Southern Idaho to view FOX programming.  If you would like to voice your concern, the FOX Network can be contacted at 310-369-1000.

KXTF will continue to operate in our market.  Contract negotiations are underway to bring THIS TV to KXTF.  THIS TV’s program schedule relies on the extensive library of films and TV programming currently owned by MGM and subsidiary United Artists.