The E.W. Scripps Company is set to enhance its presence in the Lexington, Kentucky market by acquiring the ABC affiliate WTVQ-TV, also known as “ABC 36,” from Morris Network, Inc. for a sum of $15.8 million. This strategic move positions Scripps to bolster its broadcasting capabilities in the region, as WTVQ-TV is a key player in the local media landscape.
Located approximately 90 minutes south of Cincinnati, WTVQ-TV serves as a vital source of news and entertainment for the Lexington community. The station also operates a DT2 channel that features MyNetwork TV programming, further diversifying its content offerings. With this acquisition, Scripps aims to create a duopoly in Lexington by pairing WTVQ-TV with its existing NBC affiliate, WLEX-TV, known as “LEX 18.” This consolidation will enhance Scripps’ competitive edge against local rivals, including Nexstar Media Group’s WDKY, branded as “FOX 56,” and Gray Media’s WKYT-TV, the CBS affiliate.
Scripps President and CEO Adam Symson expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, emphasizing the company’s commitment to the Lexington market. In a statement, he noted that the deal would allow Scripps to deepen its investment in local journalism and community engagement. Symson highlighted the importance of strategic acquisitions in strengthening the company’s financial stability and enhancing its public service journalism efforts. He stated, “This acquisition would give us the scale and depth in Lexington to strengthen our financial durability and assign more reporters to neighborhoods throughout the area, enhancing our public service journalism and creating greater community connection across the market.”
The acquisition is subject to federal regulatory approval and other customary processes. In the interim, Scripps will begin providing programming, marketing, and related services to WTVQ-TV through a local programming and marketing agreement. Once the deal is finalized, WTVQ-TV will join the ranks of Scripps’ other stations, including WCPO-9 in Cincinnati, further solidifying the company’s footprint in the region.