Starz Warns Verizon FiOS Customers May Lose Channels
Starz says its channels, on-demand service and app could be pulled from Verizon FiOS if a distribution deal isn't reached soon.
Starz has gone public with a warning that its channels, Starz on Demand and the Starz app could be removed from Verizon FiOS if the two companies fail to reach a new distribution agreement.
In a statement, Starz President of Networks Alison Hoffman said the company has been negotiating in good faith with Verizon. She added that viewers should be prepared for Verizon to pull Starz unless a deal is struck imminently.
The dispute centers on the terms of carriage for Starz's linear channels and its streaming products on Verizon's FiOS TV platform. Neither side has announced a deadline for an agreement.
Pressure on Both Sides
Carriage fights of this kind carry real stakes for Starz, which ended 2025 with 17.6 million subscribers and has since stopped reporting subscriber numbers. Its streaming service accounts for roughly three-quarters of that base, making platform distribution deals a key part of its reach.
In past carriage disputes, distributors have urged affected customers to sign up for Starz directly on streaming platforms — a playbook that could surface again if the Verizon standoff drags on. Deadline reported on Starz's statement.
Quick answers
Why might Starz be removed from Verizon FiOS?
Starz says it has been negotiating a distribution agreement with Verizon in good faith, but warns its channels, Starz on Demand and the Starz app could be pulled if a deal is not reached imminently.
What did Starz's Alison Hoffman say?
Hoffman, Starz's President of Networks, said the company has negotiated in good faith and that viewers should be prepared for Verizon to remove Starz unless an agreement is reached soon.
How many subscribers does Starz have?
Starz ended 2025 with 17.6 million subscribers and is no longer reporting subscriber numbers. Its streaming service makes up about three-quarters of its subscriber base.