Is Xfinity Dropping Starz?

Posted on: 16 Feb 2026

Curious if Xfinity is dropping STARZ? This comprehensive guide dives deep into the current status of STARZ on Xfinity, exploring potential reasons for carriage disputes, what it means for subscribers, and how to stay informed about your favorite STARZ content. We'll provide clarity and actionable advice.

Understanding the Issue: STARZ and Xfinity Carriage

The relationship between content providers like STARZ and distributors like Xfinity is complex, often revolving around carriage agreements. These agreements dictate whether a channel can be broadcast on a cable or satellite platform and under what financial terms. When negotiations for a new carriage agreement break down, or when existing terms become untenable for either party, it can lead to the removal of a channel from the distributor's lineup. This is commonly referred to as a "carriage dispute." For viewers, this means the sudden loss of access to their favorite shows and movies, often without much prior warning. The question of whether Xfinity is dropping STARZ is a recurring concern for many subscribers who rely on this premium channel for exclusive content.

STARZ, known for its original series such as Outlander, Power, and American Gods, as well as a robust library of Hollywood movies, is a valuable asset for many households. Xfinity, as one of the largest cable and internet providers in the United States, carries a vast array of channels. The potential removal of STARZ from Xfinity's offerings would significantly impact a substantial number of viewers. This guide aims to provide a clear, up-to-date picture of the situation, addressing the specific concerns of Xfinity customers regarding STARZ availability.

Current Status: Is STARZ Available on Xfinity in 2025-26?

As of late 2025 and looking into early 2026, the availability of STARZ on Xfinity remains a fluid situation, subject to ongoing negotiations and market dynamics. While there have been periods of uncertainty and past disputes, official announcements from both Xfinity (Comcast) and STARZ are the most reliable indicators. It is crucial for subscribers to understand that these agreements can change with relatively short notice.

General Availability (as of late 2025): Currently, STARZ and its associated channels (like STARZ ENCORE) are generally available to Xfinity customers who subscribe to the appropriate premium channel packages. This means that if you have STARZ as part of your current Xfinity TV subscription, you likely still have access. However, this availability is contingent upon the continuation of their carriage agreement.

Recent Developments and Rumors: The media landscape is constantly evolving. Streaming services have disrupted traditional cable models, forcing content providers and distributors to re-evaluate their business strategies. This often leads to renegotiations of carriage fees, channel placement, and bundled offerings. Rumors about potential channel drops or additions are common in the industry. For STARZ and Xfinity, the specific terms of their agreement, including licensing fees and the perceived value of STARZ content to Xfinity subscribers, are central to these discussions.

Official Statements: The most definitive way to know the status is to check official communications from Xfinity or STARZ. Companies typically issue press releases or post notices on their websites and social media channels when a channel is about to be removed or added. For instance, if a dispute were imminent, Xfinity would likely inform its customers through billing statements, email notifications, or on-screen messages. Similarly, STARZ would likely promote its availability on other platforms or encourage direct subscriptions.

Key Takeaway for 2025-26: While STARZ is generally still accessible on Xfinity for those who subscribe, the situation is dynamic. It's essential to remain vigilant and consult official sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information. The absence of a major public announcement about a drop suggests continued carriage, but this can change.

Why Carriage Disputes Happen

Carriage disputes between content providers and distributors are rarely about a single issue. They are typically the result of a complex interplay of economic, strategic, and market-driven factors. Understanding these underlying reasons can provide valuable context for why channels like STARZ might face removal from platforms like Xfinity.

Financial Negotiations and Fees

At the core of most carriage disputes lies the negotiation of financial terms. Content providers, like STARZ, invest heavily in producing original content and acquiring popular movies. They expect to be compensated for this investment through carriage fees paid by distributors. Distributors, such as Xfinity, must then decide if these fees are justifiable based on the number of subscribers who watch the channel and the overall value it adds to their package.

Rising Content Costs: The cost of producing high-quality television and acquiring exclusive movie rights has escalated significantly, especially with the rise of streaming. Content providers often seek to increase their carriage fees to cover these rising costs.
Subscriber Value: Distributors like Xfinity analyze viewership data. If a channel, despite its perceived quality, is not watched by a significant portion of their subscriber base, they may be less willing to pay higher fees for it.
Profit Margins: Cable companies operate on tight profit margins. They must balance the cost of programming with the price they charge subscribers. If a channel's fees become too high, it can erode their profitability or force them to increase prices for all subscribers, which can lead to customer dissatisfaction and churn.

Market Shifts and Streaming Competition

The television industry has been fundamentally reshaped by the advent and proliferation of streaming services. This shift impacts carriage negotiations in several ways:

Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) Models: Many content providers, including STARZ, now offer their own standalone streaming services (e.g., STARZ app). This allows them to capture revenue directly from consumers, potentially reducing their reliance on traditional cable distributors and giving them more leverage in negotiations.
Bundling Strategies: Distributors are re-evaluating their channel bundles. With cord-cutting on the rise, they are looking to offer packages that are more appealing and cost-effective to consumers. This might mean dropping channels that are perceived as less essential or that subscribers can access more cheaply through other means.
Competition for Attention: The sheer volume of content available across numerous streaming platforms means that traditional linear channels are competing not just with each other, but with Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Max, and many others for viewer attention and subscription dollars.

Strategic Considerations

Beyond finances and market trends, strategic decisions can also fuel disputes:

Leverage and Power: Sometimes, a dispute can be a strategic move by either the content provider or the distributor to gain leverage in negotiations or to make a statement about market power.
Channel Placement and Packaging: Negotiations can also involve how a channel is presented to subscribers. A content provider might demand a more prominent placement or inclusion in a more basic package, while a distributor might prefer it to be an add-on.
Contractual Terms: The specific clauses within existing or expiring contracts, such as exclusivity rights, advertising revenue sharing, or renewal options, can also become points of contention.

Past Examples and Precedents

It's important to note that carriage disputes are not uncommon in the television industry. Major distributors and content providers frequently engage in tough negotiations. For example, AMC Networks, Discovery, and ViacomCBS (now Paramount Global) have all been involved in high-profile carriage disputes with various cable and satellite providers in the past. These disputes often highlight the delicate balance of power and the constant need for adaptation in the media ecosystem.

Impact on Xfinity Subscribers

When a channel like STARZ is removed from Xfinity's lineup, the impact on subscribers can be significant, affecting their viewing habits, entertainment choices, and overall satisfaction with their service.

Loss of Access to Exclusive Content

STARZ is home to a slate of popular original series and a curated selection of movies. For subscribers who specifically pay for Xfinity to access STARZ, its removal means losing access to these flagship programs.

Original Series: Shows like the Power universe (Power Book II: Ghost, Power Book III: Raising Kanan, Power Book IV: Force), Outlander, and P-Valley have dedicated fan bases. Losing these series means subscribers can no longer watch them as part of their existing cable package.
Movie Library: STARZ also offers a rotating selection of recent and classic Hollywood films. The loss of this library can diminish the perceived value of the Xfinity TV package.

Disruption to Viewing Habits

Many viewers have established routines and preferences based on the channels available to them. The sudden removal of a channel disrupts these habits.

Binge-Watching: Subscribers who were in the middle of a STARZ series or looking forward to new episodes would have their viewing experience abruptly halted.
Channel Surfing: The spontaneity of discovering content through channel surfing is also impacted when a familiar and favored channel is no longer present.

Financial Considerations and Value Perception

Subscribers pay a monthly fee for their Xfinity package, which includes various channels. The removal of a premium channel like STARZ can lead to questions about the value they are receiving for their money.

Reduced Value for Money: If STARZ was a primary reason for subscribing to a particular Xfinity tier, its removal can make the package seem less valuable, potentially leading to frustration and a re-evaluation of their subscription.
Additional Costs: To continue watching STARZ content, subscribers would likely need to seek alternative viewing methods, which often involve additional costs.

Need for Alternative Solutions

The removal of STARZ forces subscribers to find alternative ways to access the content they enjoy. This can involve subscribing to STARZ directly, exploring other streaming services, or switching to a different cable provider if STARZ remains available elsewhere.

The inconvenience and potential added expense are primary concerns for affected Xfinity customers. The situation underscores the evolving nature of content distribution and the challenges consumers face in navigating an increasingly fragmented media landscape.

Alternatives to STARZ on Xfinity

If STARZ is indeed removed from Xfinity, or if subscribers are looking for ways to access its content independently, several alternatives exist. These options range from direct subscriptions to exploring other platforms that offer similar programming.

Direct STARZ Subscription

STARZ offers its content directly to consumers through its own streaming service and app. This is the most straightforward way to continue watching STARZ originals and movies without relying on a cable provider.

STARZ App: Available on most smart TVs, streaming devices (Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV), game consoles, and mobile devices.
STARZ.com: Subscribers can access content via a web browser.
Pricing: Typically, a standalone STARZ subscription costs around $9.99 to $11.99 per month, though pricing can vary and promotional offers may be available. This can be more or less expensive than the cost of STARZ as part of an Xfinity package, depending on the specific Xfinity tier.

Other Premium Channels on Xfinity

Xfinity offers a variety of other premium channels that provide a wealth of entertainment. If the goal is simply to have premium movie and series content, these are excellent alternatives.

HBO/Max: Known for critically acclaimed series like House of the Dragon, The Last of Us, and a vast movie library.
Showtime: Offers popular series such as Yellowjackets, Dexter: New Blood, and a strong selection of films.
Cinemax: Focuses heavily on Hollywood movies, often with a more mature audience in mind.
Epix (now MGM+): Provides original series and a library of movies.

Subscribers can check their Xfinity channel lineup and explore add-on packages to see which of these premium channels best suits their viewing preferences.

Streaming Services with Similar Content

Many other streaming services offer high-quality original series and movie libraries that can appeal to STARZ viewers.

Netflix: A vast library of original series, documentaries, and movies across all genres.
Hulu: Offers a mix of original content, network television shows, and a growing movie selection.
Amazon Prime Video: Features popular originals like The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power and The Boys, along with a large movie catalog.
Apple TV+: Known for its critically acclaimed original series like Ted Lasso and Severance.
Paramount+: Home to CBS shows, Paramount movies, and original content like the Star Trek universe.

Bundling Options and Discounts

Consumers can often save money by bundling subscriptions. For example, some services offer discounts when bundled with other streaming platforms or even with internet services.

Example: A subscriber might find that subscribing directly to STARZ and adding a service like Netflix offers a better overall content library and value proposition compared to a comprehensive Xfinity package that includes STARZ but fewer other desired channels.

Free Trial Periods

Most streaming services and premium channels offer free trial periods (typically 7 to 30 days). This allows viewers to sample content and decide if the service is worth the subscription cost before committing.

By exploring these alternatives, Xfinity subscribers can ensure they continue to have access to the entertainment they love, regardless of the specific channels available on their cable package.

Staying Informed: How to Get Updates

Navigating the dynamic world of cable channel availability requires proactive information gathering. When it comes to potential changes like Xfinity dropping STARZ, being informed is key to avoiding surprises and making timely decisions. Here's how subscribers can stay up-to-date:

Official Xfinity Communications

Xfinity (Comcast) has a vested interest in keeping its customers informed about significant changes to its channel lineup.

Xfinity Website: The official Xfinity website (Xfinity.com) is a primary source of information. Look for sections dedicated to news, customer alerts, or channel updates. They often have dedicated pages or blog posts addressing significant programming changes.
Customer Account Portal: Log in to your Xfinity account online. Important notifications, including those about channel changes, are often posted in the account dashboard or sent via email.
On-Screen Messages: Xfinity set-top boxes frequently display on-screen messages or pop-ups to alert customers about upcoming channel changes, service disruptions, or important announcements. Keep an eye on these notifications.
Billing Statements: Changes to channel lineups that affect subscription tiers or costs are often communicated through monthly billing statements, either in the statement itself or in accompanying inserts.
Xfinity Customer Service: If you are unsure about the status of a channel, contacting Xfinity customer service directly via phone, chat, or in-person at a service center is a reliable way to get accurate information.

Official STARZ Communications

STARZ, as the content provider, also has a responsibility to inform its audience about its distribution status.

STARZ Website: Visit STARZ.com. They may have a section detailing where their channels are available or a newsroom for official announcements.
STARZ App/Direct Subscription Information: If you subscribe directly to STARZ or are considering it, their app and website will clearly indicate availability and any changes.
STARZ Social Media: Follow STARZ on platforms like Twitter (X), Facebook, and Instagram. Companies often use social media for rapid dissemination of news and updates.

Reputable News and Industry Publications

The media industry is closely watched by journalists and analysts. Following reputable news sources can provide early warnings and in-depth coverage of potential carriage disputes.

Industry Trade Publications: Websites like Variety, The Hollywood Reporter, Deadline Hollywood, and FierceVideo often report on carriage negotiations and potential channel drops.
Consumer Technology News Sites: Major technology news outlets (e.g., CNET, The Verge, TechCrunch) frequently cover significant developments in the pay-TV and streaming industries.
Local News Outlets: Sometimes, local news stations or newspapers will report on carriage disputes affecting their regional viewers, especially if a significant local affiliate is involved.

Consumer Forums and Social Media Monitoring

While not official sources, online communities can be a good place to gauge sentiment and pick up on early discussions among affected users.

Reddit: Subreddits dedicated to Xfinity, cable TV, or specific shows might have discussions about channel availability.
Xfinity Forums: Xfinity often hosts its own customer forums where users can ask questions and share information.

Caution: Always cross-reference information found on unofficial channels with official statements to ensure accuracy. Rumors can spread quickly online, and it's important to rely on verified sources for critical decisions about your subscriptions.

Historical Precedents: Similar Disputes

The television industry is no stranger to carriage disputes. The potential for Xfinity to drop STARZ is part of a larger pattern of negotiations and disagreements that occur regularly between cable operators and content providers. Examining past incidents provides valuable context and helps subscribers understand the typical dynamics at play.

AMC Networks and Various Distributors (Ongoing)

AMC Networks, the company behind AMC, BBC America, IFC, and SundanceTV, has been involved in numerous carriage disputes over the years with various cable and satellite providers, including AT&T U-verse, Dish Network, and Spectrum. These disputes often center on the rising cost of AMC's popular original programming, such as The Walking Dead and Better Call Saul, and AMC's desire to increase carriage fees to reflect the value of these shows.

Discovery Communications and Hulu/YouTube TV (2021)

In early 2021, Discovery's suite of channels (Discovery Channel, HGTV, TLC, Food Network, etc.) was temporarily removed from YouTube TV after negotiations failed. The dispute was resolved within days, but it highlighted the vulnerability of even widely popular channels. A similar dispute occurred with Hulu + Live TV around the same time. The core issues were carriage fees and the perceived value of Discovery's extensive portfolio of lifestyle and factual programming in an increasingly competitive streaming market.

Sinclair Broadcast Group and Dish Network (2019-2021)

The Sinclair Broadcast Group, which owns a large number of local television stations across the U.S., had a protracted dispute with Dish Network that lasted for over a year. This dispute affected viewers' ability to watch local news and programming on Sinclair-owned ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC affiliates. The negotiations were complex, involving retransmission consent fees, which are fees paid by distributors to carry local broadcast signals.

Nexstar Media Group and DirecTV (2019-2020)

Nexstar, another major owner of local TV stations, also had a significant carriage dispute with DirecTV that resulted in the removal of its local channels for millions of DirecTV customers. Similar to the Sinclair dispute, this revolved around retransmission fees and the value of local broadcast content.

ViacomCBS (now Paramount Global) and Various Providers

ViacomCBS has had its share of carriage disputes, impacting channels like CBS, MTV, Nickelodeon, Comedy Central, and Paramount Network. These negotiations often involve the company's extensive library of popular cable shows and its push for higher carriage fees.

Lessons from Past Disputes

Financial Leverage: The primary driver is almost always financial. Content providers want higher fees, and distributors are wary of passing excessive costs to subscribers, risking churn.
Streaming's Influence: The rise of streaming services gives content providers more options to go direct-to-consumer, increasing their leverage in negotiations with cable providers.
Temporary vs. Permanent Removal: Many disputes are resolved relatively quickly (days or weeks), but some can drag on for months, causing significant disruption. Occasionally, channels are permanently removed if an agreement cannot be reached.
Subscriber Impact: These disputes directly impact consumers, who are often caught in the middle, losing access to channels they pay for.
Communication is Key: During disputes, distributors usually inform customers about the situation, often framing it as the content provider being unwilling to reach a fair agreement.

These historical precedents demonstrate that carriage disputes are a normal, albeit disruptive, part of the television distribution landscape. They underscore the importance for subscribers to stay informed about their providers' agreements and to be prepared for potential changes.

The Future of Premium Channels on Cable Bundles

The traditional model of bundling premium channels like STARZ, HBO, and Showtime within cable packages is facing significant challenges. The evolving media consumption habits of consumers, driven by the explosion of streaming services, are forcing a re-evaluation of this long-standing practice. The future for premium channels on cable bundles appears to be one of transformation and adaptation.

The Rise of Standalone Streaming

The most significant factor impacting premium channels is the success of direct-to-consumer (DTC) streaming services. STARZ, HBO (via Max), Showtime (via Paramount+ with SHOWTIME), and others now offer their content directly to consumers via apps and websites. This allows them to:

Capture Full Revenue: Content providers receive the entire subscription fee, rather than a smaller portion from the cable distributor.
Control the Customer Relationship: They can gather data on viewer preferences, market directly to consumers, and offer personalized experiences.
Flexibility in Pricing and Packaging: DTC services can offer various subscription tiers, bundles, and promotional deals without being constrained by a cable provider's existing package structure.

Cord-Cutting and Cord-Nevers

An increasing number of households are "cord-cutting," canceling their traditional cable or satellite subscriptions in favor of streaming services. Simultaneously, younger generations, known as "cord-nevers," are opting out of traditional TV altogether, opting for a purely streaming-based entertainment diet. This trend directly reduces the subscriber base for cable providers and, consequently, the leverage of premium channels that rely on cable distribution.

Bundling Strategies by Distributors

Cable providers like Xfinity are adapting by offering more flexible and customizable packages.

"Skinny Bundles": Offering smaller, more affordable packages with fewer channels, allowing customers to add premium channels or specific content tiers à la carte.
Integration of Streaming Apps: Xfinity, for example, has integrated popular streaming apps into its platform, allowing subscribers to access Netflix, Max, Peacock, and others through their Xfinity remote and interface. This positions Xfinity as a central hub for all entertainment, not just linear TV.
Focus on Broadband: Many cable companies are increasingly prioritizing their broadband internet services, recognizing that reliable high-speed internet is essential for streaming and is a more stable revenue stream than traditional TV packages.

The Value Proposition of Premium Channels

For premium channels, their value proposition in a bundled cable environment is shifting.

Niche Audiences: Channels that cater to specific, dedicated audiences (like STARZ with its action/genre focus and strong original series) may continue to find a place in bundles, but their negotiation power might be reduced.
"Must-Have" Content: Channels with universally acclaimed, high-profile content (historically HBO) have had stronger leverage. However, even these are now competing with the vast original content libraries of Netflix, Disney+, and others.
Movie Libraries: Channels primarily known for their movie libraries may struggle to justify high carriage fees when consumers can access vast movie catalogs on services like Netflix, Prime Video, or Apple TV+.

Potential Future Scenarios

Continued Decline in Bundled Premium Channels: More channels may be dropped by distributors as negotiations become tougher and subscriber demand shifts.
Increased Direct Subscriptions: Consumers will increasingly opt for direct subscriptions to premium channels or curated bundles of streaming services that meet their specific needs.
Strategic Partnerships: We might see more strategic partnerships between cable providers and streaming services, where cable companies act as resellers or aggregators, offering bundled streaming deals.
Consolidation: The media industry may see further consolidation, with larger entities combining content libraries and distribution platforms to achieve economies of scale and greater market power.

Ultimately, the future of premium channels on cable bundles will be dictated by consumer choice. As long as there is a significant segment of the population that prefers the simplicity and perceived value of a bundled package, premium channels will likely remain available, albeit in a more curated and negotiated form. However, the trend clearly points towards a more fragmented and consumer-driven entertainment landscape.

What to Do If STARZ is Removed

If you discover that STARZ has been removed from your Xfinity channel lineup, or if you anticipate its removal, there are several proactive steps you can take to ensure you don't miss out on your favorite content and to manage your entertainment budget effectively.

1. Verify the Removal

Before taking any drastic action, double-check that STARZ has indeed been removed.

Check Xfinity's Official Communications: Review your recent Xfinity billing statements, emails from Xfinity, or on-screen messages on your TV.
Consult Xfinity's Website: Visit Xfinity.com and log in to your account to view your current channel lineup.
Contact Xfinity Customer Service: If there's any doubt, call or chat with Xfinity customer support to confirm the status of STARZ.

2. Assess Your Viewing Habits

Consider how much you actually watch STARZ and what content you value most.

Identify Key Shows/Movies: List the specific STARZ original series or movies that are most important to you.
Frequency of Viewing: How often do you tune into STARZ? Is it a daily habit, a weekly occurrence, or occasional viewing?
Value vs. Cost: If you were paying for STARZ as part of a bundle, estimate its individual cost and compare it to the value you derived from watching it.

3. Explore Direct STARZ Subscription

As mentioned earlier, STARZ offers its own streaming service.

Sign Up for the STARZ App: Visit STARZ.com or download the STARZ app on your preferred device.
Utilize Free Trials: Many services offer free trial periods (e.g., 7-30 days). This is an excellent opportunity to test the service and see if it meets your needs before committing to a paid subscription.
Compare Costs: Calculate the monthly cost of a direct STARZ subscription versus what you were paying for it through Xfinity. Sometimes, direct subscriptions can be more cost-effective if you only want that specific channel.

4. Evaluate Other Premium Channels and Streaming Services

If STARZ was just one part of your premium channel viewing, consider alternatives.

Xfinity's Other Premium Offerings: Explore if HBO/Max, Showtime, Cinemax, or MGM+ offer content that appeals to you and could serve as a replacement. You might be able to swap STARZ for another premium channel within your Xfinity package, or add one at a different price point.
Other Streaming Services: Consider if content similar to what you enjoy on STARZ is available on Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, or other platforms. You might find that a combination of these services provides a richer and more diverse viewing experience.

5. Re-evaluate Your Xfinity Package

The removal of a significant channel like STARZ might prompt you to reassess your entire Xfinity TV package.

Downgrade or Modify: If STARZ was a primary driver for a higher-tier package, you might be able to downgrade to a more basic package that better suits your current needs, potentially saving money.
Negotiate with Xfinity: Contact Xfinity customer service to discuss your options. Explain that you are considering changing your service due to the removal of STARZ and see if they can offer alternative packages, promotions, or discounts to retain your business.

6. Consider Cord-Cutting Fully

If the removal of STARZ, combined with the increasing cost and complexity of cable packages, pushes you towards a streaming-only solution, now might be the time to fully cut the cord.

Calculate Total Streaming Costs: Add up the costs of all the streaming services you would subscribe to (STARZ, Netflix, Hulu, etc.) and compare this to your current Xfinity bill.
Assess Internet Needs: Ensure your home internet service (which you might still get from Xfinity or another provider) is robust enough to handle multiple streaming devices simultaneously.

By taking these steps, you can effectively navigate the situation if STARZ is removed from Xfinity, ensuring continued access to your preferred entertainment while potentially optimizing your subscription costs.

In conclusion, the question of whether Xfinity is dropping STARZ is a recurring concern for many subscribers, reflecting the dynamic nature of the pay-TV industry. While STARZ remains generally available on Xfinity for those who subscribe as of late 2025 and into early 2026, the possibility of future carriage disputes is ever-present. These disputes often stem from complex financial negotiations, the shifting landscape of streaming services, and strategic decisions by both content providers and distributors. For Xfinity subscribers, the impact of such a removal would mean losing access to popular original series and movies, necessitating a search for alternatives. Fortunately, direct STARZ subscriptions, other premium channels on Xfinity, and a wide array of streaming services offer viable solutions. Staying informed through official Xfinity and STARZ communications, as well as reputable industry news, is crucial. Historical precedents show that these disputes are common, highlighting the need for subscribers to be proactive. The future of premium channels on cable bundles is evolving, with a clear trend towards direct-to-consumer models and more flexible packaging. If STARZ is removed, verify the change, assess your viewing habits, explore direct subscriptions or alternative services, and consider re-evaluating your overall Xfinity package or even embracing a fully streaming-based entertainment approach.