Sports fans frustrated by Disney-DirecTV dispute: What you need to know

BOCA RATON, Fla. – The ongoing dispute between Disney and DirecTV has left millions of television viewers without access to their favorite sports and prime-time shows since Sunday.

We know that many sports fans have been waiting all summer and looking forward to this time of year to play sports, such as football.

With the suspension extending throughout the week, frustration is growing, especially among football fans who are eagerly awaiting the start of the season. Other viewers who are waiting for upcoming events such as the presidential debate and various award shows are also frustrated.

WPTV News journalist Victor Jorges spoke with Gerald Kleynhans of Port St. Lucie, who said he was upset about missing the Florida State football game last week because of the power outage. Kleynhans is also worried about missing important events, including the presidential debate scheduled to air on ABC next Tuesday.

“I won't be able to watch it and choose a good candidate,” said Kleynhans. He also spoke about the disappointment of his wife, who missed the season finale of “The Bachelorette” on Monday.

The power outage puts local businesses, especially sports bars, in a difficult position.

Chris Torelli, managing partner of Hooters in Boca Raton, said his restaurant will handle the disruption with transparency and patience. He hopes customers will do the same.

“We have a list of 37 available games. And if that one game is not available, it means the world to that fan,” Torelli said.

Torelli said that although other sports programs will continue to be available, he expects problems to arise as the football season progresses and stakes increase.

“We have identified a few dates and games where there could be problems,” Torelli said.

Torelli mentioned that the blackout affects everyone, whether at home or in public places. He is also a sports fan. He said that when he is not watching the games at work, he is at home watching them, just like everyone else.

How did we get here? Both companies continue to blame each other.

DirecTV says Disney is forcing customers to pay for channels they don't watch, and Disney says DirecTV's offering undervalues ​​its portfolio. Customers are currently in limbo because DirecTV is offering a $20 credit on next month's bill, an offer that many, including the Kleynhans, find inadequate.

Those sitting in front of blank screens may find some relief with alternative programming from NBC, FOX and CBS. But sports fans – especially those looking forward to Monday night's games – will have to wait until this dispute is resolved.

If you see a black screen on your TV, this is the site that the QR code displayed will take you to.