Verizon Fios subscribers lost access to all Starz channels and on-demand content on Thursday, October 1, 2026, following a breakdown in carriage negotiations between the provider and the network. The blackout arrives at a critical time for viewers, as two of the network’s high-profile series are scheduled to air new episodes today, Friday, October 2.
The removal of the network includes Starz Encore, Starz Kids & Family, and the ability for Verizon customers to use their Fios credentials to log into the Starz standalone app. According to official statements from the network, the two companies failed to reach an agreement to renew the distribution contract before the previous deal expired.
Why Starz is Missing From Fios
The dispute centers on the financial terms of the renewal. A Verizon spokesperson claimed the network insisted on rate terms that do not reflect the current market. Specifically, Verizon has alleged that Starz was seeking fees higher than what the network charges consumers who subscribe directly to its standalone streaming service.
Starz President Alison Hoffman has countered these claims, stating that Verizon has mischaracterized the network’s position and shown an “unwillingness to negotiate” a fair deal for its customers.
How to Watch Today’s Premieres
The timing of the blackout is particularly impactful for fans of the Outlander prequel, Outlander: Blood of my Blood. Season 2, Episode 3 premieres today, October 2. Additionally, the new standalone spinoff S.W.A.T. Exiles, starring Shemar Moore, airs its second episode tonight following its series premiere last week.
To resume watching these shows immediately, viewers have several direct-to-consumer options that do not require a cable subscription:
- Starz Direct Subscription: The network is currently offering promotional rates for new and returning subscribers, including a full year for $30 or a monthly rate of $5 for the first three months.
- Amazon Prime Video: Starz can be added as a premium “channel” for $11.99 per month. New subscribers to the channel often qualify for a 7-day free trial.
- Hulu: Like Amazon, Hulu allows users to add Starz to their existing plan for $11.99 per month, which integrates the content directly into the Hulu interface.
While Verizon has not confirmed if customers will receive automatic credits on their bills for the loss of the premium service, subscribers who pay for Starz as an “add-on” rather than as part of a bundled package are typically able to remove the charge by contacting Verizon customer support or managing their account online.
For now, there is no public timeline for when or if Starz will return to the Verizon Fios lineup, as both parties remain at an impasse regarding the valuation of the network’s library and live feeds.
