Behind Comcast's big TV deal: a bleak picture for once mighty cable industry

When Comcast swallowed NBC and Universal Studios 14 years ago, the sibling cable channels USA Network, Bravo and CNBC were considered diamonds in the rough. USA Network had gained traction with its 'Blue Skies' programming strategy: sunny and upbeat TV programs infused with a buoyant energy and natural light. The cable channels were NBCUniversal's equivalent of blue skies, routinely delivering three-quarters of the company's profit. In 2012, cable networks threw off a robust $3.

That same month, Paramount Global wrote down $6 billion in value for its cable channels, including MTV, Nickelodeon, VH-1 and Comedy Central. Pay-TV channel blackouts have become more common. And pioneering satellite TV company DirecTV two months ago announced its plan to buy competing Dish Networks for $1. That merger is expected to face regulators' scrutiny. More separations and roll-ups may be coming. Warner Bros.

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Comcast's cable network spinoff may be a signal to the media industry for necessary changeComcast may be proceeding with a transaction as a signal to the rest of the media industry that consolidation is necessary.
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