Gray Media, Inc. has taken a bold step to strengthen its Midwest footprint by agreeing to purchase Block Communications, Inc.’s television stations for $80 million. This acquisition is poised to create a new Big Four duopoly in one market and will bring top-ranked local news outlets in two additional Midwestern regions under Gray’s umbrella
The Stations at a Glance
With this deal, the Atlanta-based Gray Media not only bolsters its market presence but also aligns with its vision of delivering high-quality, locally-focused news to communities across the nation. The transaction encompasses a diverse portfolio of stations that will complement Gray’s existing operations:
- WDRB (FOX) and WBKI (CW) in Louisville, Kentucky (DMA 49), where Gray already owns and operates NBC affiliate WAVE3.
- WAND (NBC) in the Springfield-Champaign-Decatur, Illinois market (DMA 92), a station that boasted the highest all-day ratings among television households in 2024.
- WLIO (NBC) in Lima, Ohio (DMA 190), including its associated low-power television stations, which also led 2024 all-day ratings according to Comscore.
By integrating these established affiliates, Gray Media is positioning itself to offer viewers a robust mix of national network programming and compelling local content. Cord cutters can use a site like Antennas Direct to find which affiliates are in their area and find the right antenna to watch their favorite shows on the networks.
What This Means for Local Viewers
Serving 113 markets and reaching roughly 37 percent of U.S. television households, Gray brings its track record as the largest owner of top-rated local television stations. With the expansion in the Midwest, audiences can expect enhanced news coverage, more on-the-ground reporting, and improved community engagement with this acquisition.
Gray Media anticipates completing the acquisition in the fourth quarter of 2025, pending regulatory approval and customary closing conditions. This process includes necessary waivers under current FCC ownership rules. The Georgia-based communications giant will leverage its operational expertise by integrating Block Communications’ stations and continuing to invest in local newsrooms and digital platforms
