DISH Drops WTVQ (ABC 36) in Lexington: How to Watch ABC Now
DISH customers in Central and Eastern Kentucky lost their local ABC station this week. On Wednesday, September 30, 2026, DISH pulled WTVQ (ABC 36), the ABC affiliate serving Lexington, from its satellite service.
If you're a DISH subscriber in the Lexington market, here's what's going on, what you're missing and the easiest ways to keep watching ABC, including options available today.
Why did WTVQ disappear from DISH?
WTVQ is owned by the E.W. Scripps Company, which completed its purchase of the station from Morris Network on August 1, 2026. Scripps also owns Lexington's NBC station, WLEX (LEX 18). In a statement, a Scripps spokesperson called the removal of WTVQ a "clear violation" of its distribution agreement with DISH. As of Wednesday evening, DISH hadn't publicly explained the move.
There's no announced timeline for WTVQ to return to DISH.
What DISH customers are missing
- College football on ABC during the heart of the season
- The upcoming NBA and NHL seasons on ABC
- ABC shows like Abbott Elementary, The Rookie, Grey's Anatomy, Scrubs and Dancing with the Stars
Local news is a partial exception. Since Scripps took over WTVQ, the Lexington stations share LEX News newscasts, and WLEX, which DISH still carries, airs that local news.
How to watch ABC 36 now
1. Use an antenna (free)
WTVQ is still on the air for free. Connect an antenna to your TV, run a channel scan and look for WTVQ on channel 36. Reception depends on how far you are from the transmitter and on the terrain, so households in hilly or rural areas may need an outdoor antenna.
2. Get WTVQ with DIRECTV
WTVQ-DT is available on DIRECTV channel 36 in the Lexington market along with the other local stations. In July 2026, DIRECTV and Scripps signed a new multi-year carriage agreement covering Scripps' local stations. Want to compare plans? See DIRECTV packages and deals in Lexington or call American TV at 1-855-690-9884.
3. Stream it with a live TV service
WTVQ also streams on YouTube TV, Fubo and Hulu + Live TV in its market. Each requires a monthly subscription and a decent internet connection.
Your options at a glance
| Option | Gets WTVQ ABC 36? | Monthly cost | Keep in mind |
|---|---|---|---|
| Antenna | Yes, over the air on channel 36 | Free after you buy the antenna | Reception varies by location |
| DIRECTV | Yes, in the Lexington market | Paid TV plan | Local channels plus cable networks and DVR in one guide |
| YouTube TV, Fubo, Hulu + Live TV | Yes, in the Lexington market | Paid streaming plan | Needs reliable internet |
| DISH | Not while the dispute lasts | Your current bill | No return date announced |
Thinking about leaving DISH?
A missing local channel is a common reason to compare, especially during football season. Before you switch, check your DISH agreement for early-termination fees, make a list of the channels you watch and confirm local channel and sports availability at your address. These guides can help:
- Is it worth switching from DISH to DIRECTV?
- How to switch from DISH Network to DIRECTV
- What DISH's approved bankruptcy plan means for customers
Want ABC 36 back in your channel guide? Call 1-855-690-9884 to see DIRECTV options for your Lexington-area address.
Frequently asked questions
Why can't I watch ABC 36 on DISH?
DISH removed WTVQ (ABC 36) on September 30, 2026. Scripps, which owns the station, says the removal violates its distribution agreement with DISH. DISH hadn't commented publicly as of that evening.
Is WTVQ available on DIRECTV?
Yes. WTVQ-DT is available on DIRECTV channel 36 in the Lexington market, and DIRECTV signed a multi-year carriage agreement with Scripps in July 2026.
Can I get ABC 36 with an antenna?
Yes. WTVQ broadcasts free over the air. Connect an antenna, scan for channels and look for channel 36.
Can I still watch Lexington local news on DISH?
Yes. WLEX (LEX 18), the Scripps-owned NBC station, is still on DISH and airs LEX News local newscasts.
When will WTVQ come back to DISH?
No date has been announced.
Questions about local channels at your address? Call 1-855-690-9884.
Details reviewed October 1, 2026. Carriage disputes can end at any time. Local channel availability, prices and packages are set by each provider, vary by address and may change. ABC, WTVQ, DISH, DIRECTV and related marks belong to their respective owners. American TV is an independent dealer and resource site.