The CW stations owned by CBS Television Stations are set to go independent later this year, marking a change for residents in major markets including Atlanta, Detroit, Philadelphia, and San Francisco.
The change is due to take place on September 1st, 2023. At which point, all of the affected stations will end their relationship with The CW and become independent stations.
The eight stations that are confirmed to be making this change are:
- WUPA Atlanta
- WKBD Detroit
- WPSG Philadelphia
- WPCW Pittsburgh
- KMAX Sacramento
- KBCW San Francisco
- KSTW Seattle
- WTOT Tampa
While these stations are currently owned by CBS, who itself is owned by Paramount Global, Nexstar Media Group purchased a majority stake in The CW in October of last year.
Considering the 75% ownership acquisition was purchased from co-owners Warner Bros. Discovery and Paramount Global, it is not totally surprising that CBS and Paramount have now made the decision to cut ties with The CW.
According to Deadline, Wendy McMahon, President and Co-Head, CBS News and Stations said “We look forward to reimagining these stations as independents while leveraging the considerable value of their prime-time real estate in each of the markets.” McMahon added, “It’s an exciting time to look at new opportunities to add local programming, including live sports, and shows from across the Paramount Global brands.”
What happens to The CW in these locations after this date currently remains unknown. However, it would seem likely that someone might look to step in and fill the gaps.
In particular, a Nexstar affiliate would seem like the most likely candidate, especially considering Nexstar’s recently acquired majority interest.
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