Operators Name ESPN Most Valuable Net

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published

ESPN is the most valuable network to cable operators, according to a new survey by Beta Research.

The survey information was also distributed by Walt Disney Co. and ESPN, which have been fighting a perception that ESPN’s distribution would be hurt if cable operators offer subscribers lower-cost skinny bundles of programming. (See: "Iger: Disney Subs Growing.")

Cable operators said ESPN was worth $1.03 and ESPN2 was worth 75 cents, according to the survey. Those networks actually cost operators and subscribers about $7 a month.

Following the ESPN networks, vable operators said the most valuable were NFL Network, Fox News Channel, Disney Channel, TNT, Fox Sports 1, USA Network, Discovery Channel, CNN and TBS.

Read more at broadcastingcable.com.

Jon Lafayette
Jon Lafayette

Jon has been business editor of Broadcasting+Cable since 2010. He focuses on revenue-generating activities, including advertising and distribution, as well as executive intrigue and merger and acquisition activity. Just about any story is fair game, if a dollar sign can make its way into the article. Before B+C, Jon covered the industry for TVWeek, Cable World, Electronic Media, Advertising Age and The New York Post. A native New Yorker, Jon is hiding in plain sight in the suburbs of Chicago.