UPDATE: Roku posted the following response:
FOX
Roku’s distribution agreement with FOX Corp to distribute FOX channels is set to expire on Jan. 31. We don’t want to see that happen but we have tried for months to get FOX to sign an agreement and we offered FOX an extension but they declined.
If an agreement is not reached, we will be forced to remove FOX channels from the Roku platform because we can’t distribute content without an agreement. Every content provider has a distribution agreement on every platform. It gives the legal right to distribute.
Meanwhile customers can view FOX programming including the big game in many other ways on the Roku platform including through fuboTV, Sling TV, Hulu + LiveTV, and YouTube TV. Many offer free trials for new customers. In addition Roku TV customers can use an antenna to watch FOX channels.
Our discussions with FOX continue and we hope that FOX will agree to an agreement soon.
Happy Streaming!
UPDATE: FOX sent out the following, revealing that Roku is removing all of their apps from their service. That means if you view SmackDown via Roku, you may have some trouble. Based off the press release, which you can see below, it doesn’t appear the split is a mutual one:
Earlier today Roku notified their users they intend to remove FOX apps, including FOX Sports, FOX NOW, FOX News, and FOX Nation. We’re as surprised – and disappointed – as you! Only Roku can remove our apps from your device, and we’ve not asked them to do that. Be assured, if there’s a disruption, it will be Roku’s decision alone. While we work to continue our relationship with Roku, we are happy to keep our apps available to you, and we regret Roku has chosen to threaten your access solely to improve its own business interests. In case of a disruption, here are some streaming alternatives:
• Fox apps are available on Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, and Android TV, as well iOS and Android mobile devices (and you can cast from Fox’s mobile apps to Chromecast- and AirPlay-enabled devices)
• FOX NOW, FOX Sports, and FOX Nation are also available on Samsung Smart TVs
• And of course you can also visit our networks on the web at fox.com, foxsports.com, foxnews.com, and foxnation.com
• We also welcome you to check YouTube TV, Hulu, Fubo, and AT&T TV NOW on Roku devices, all of which carry Fox networks
We’re sorry for the needless drama Roku is causing you (and us!). Again, only Roku can remove apps from your device, so please let Roku know on social media to keep your FOX apps!
