In a significant move that could reshape the American broadcasting landscape, media behemoth Sinclair has acquired a substantial stake in rival E.W. Scripps, positioning itself for a potential full-scale acquisition.
A Strategic Stake and Merger Ambitions
Sinclair Broadcast Group disclosed in a regulatory filing on Monday 17 November 2025 that it now holds an 8.2% stake in Scripps' Class A common stock. The company stated this investment was made “in contemplation” of a wider bid to acquire the smaller local television rival. Sinclair revealed that it has engaged in months of discussions with Scripps “regarding a potential combination,” arguing that increasing scale is essential to compete effectively against larger media and technology firms.
Scripps acknowledged Sinclair's new stake, confirming its board would evaluate any transactions in shareholders' best interests. However, the company also signalled it would take steps to protect itself from any “opportunistic actions” by Sinclair. The market reacted swiftly, with Scripps' shares soaring nearly 40% to close at around $4.28. Sinclair's own stock also saw a healthy gain, rising 4.91% to $16.87.
Wider Industry Consolidation and Its Critics
This potential merger arrives amidst a wave of consolidation sweeping the US media industry, particularly in the local TV sector. Just this past August, Nexstar Media Group announced a $6.2 billion deal to buy broadcast rival Tegna. Broadcasters argue such mergers are necessary to compete for audience attention, but critics warn of a homogenisation of news, where local stations become mere “duplicators” of syndicated content under corporate owners who may censor certain material.
This concern was highlighted in September, when both Sinclair and Nexstar chose to preempt Jimmy Kimmel's late-night show on their ABC-affiliated stations for over a week. This was in response to comments the comedian made, demonstrating the editorial control large broadcast groups can exert.
The Players and Regulatory Hurdles
Sinclair Broadcast Group, based in Hunt Valley, Maryland, owns, operates, or provides services to 185 TV stations in 85 markets and owns the Tennis Channel. The company is known for its conservative-leaning editorial stance.
Meanwhile, Cincinnati, Ohio-based E.W. Scripps Co. operates more than 60 local stations in over 40 markets. It also owns national news outlets Scripps News and Court TV, alongside entertainment brands like ION.
Whether a merger proceeds remains uncertain and would require regulatory approval. However, under the current Trump administration, such a deal appears more likely. The Nexstar-Tegna proposal, for instance, would require the Federal Communications Commission to change ownership rules, and FCC Chairman Brendan Carr has already expressed openness to such a change.
