The Sinclair Broadcast Group owns one of the largest and most diverse media portfolios in the United States, with holdings ranging from local television stations to cable networks, multicast channels, sports media, and digital ventures. As of September 2025, the company is actively restructuring its assets, selling off certain divisions while reinforcing others, making its ownership structure an important subject in the broadcasting industry.
Television Stations Across the Country
Sinclair operates or provides services to around 178 television stations across 81 U.S. markets. These stations are affiliated with the country’s major broadcast networks, including:
- ABC
- CBS
- NBC
- FOX
- The CW
- MyNetworkTV
This broad coverage allows Sinclair to reach roughly 40% of U.S. households, making it a dominant player in local television broadcasting.
Multicast Networks Under Sinclair
In addition to traditional broadcast stations, Sinclair owns a portfolio of multicast networks that serve more targeted audiences:
- Roar – Rebranded in April 2025 (formerly TBD), now focused on comedy, reality, and viral-style entertainment.
- Comet – Dedicated to science fiction and fantasy programming.
- Charge! – Specializes in action and adventure content.
- The Nest – Offers lifestyle and reality programming.
These networks give Sinclair flexibility to diversify programming and attract niche audiences.
Cable Networks and Sports Assets
Sinclair’s ownership extends into cable and sports broadcasting, with holdings that include:
- Tennis Channel – A full-time sports cable network covering global tennis tournaments, documentaries, and live events.
- Marquee Sports Network – Sinclair holds a 50% stake in this regional sports network, known primarily for airing Chicago Cubs games.
Sinclair Ventures and Digital Assets
Beyond broadcasting, Sinclair owns a variety of digital and non-broadcast ventures, grouped under its “Ventures” division. These include:
- Digital advertising platforms such as Digital Remedy.
- Private equity and real estate investments that provide diversified revenue streams.
- Production and distribution subsidiaries that support its television operations.
This division plays a growing role as Sinclair adapts to a market increasingly dominated by digital platforms.
Recent Sales and Acquisitions
Sinclair has been actively restructuring its portfolio in 2025, making several notable moves:
- Sold NewsOn, its local news streaming platform, to Zeam.
- Acquired non-licensed assets of WDKA (Paducah, KY) and KBSI (Cape Girardeau, MO), with an option to buy licensed assets later.
- Sold five stations in the Midwest to Rincon Broadcasting Group earlier this year.
These moves show Sinclair’s intent to refine its ownership structure while focusing on long-term profitable ventures.
Strategic Review and Future Outlook
Sinclair is currently conducting a strategic review of its operations, considering the potential spin-off of its Ventures division. The review reflects the challenges of a changing media landscape:
- Broadcast revenues have fallen by about 5% year-over-year.
- The company believes non-broadcast assets like the Tennis Channel and Digital Remedy are undervalued within its current structure.
- Spinning off these assets could unlock greater value and attract new investment.
Proposed Mergers and Market Influence
In addition to asset sales and acquisitions, Sinclair has shown interest in larger industry moves. The company recently proposed merging its broadcast unit with Tegna, aiming to expand its footprint further. Although Nexstar’s competing bid currently leads, Sinclair’s proposal signals that the company continues to pursue consolidation opportunities.
The Bigger Picture: Why Ownership Matters
Understanding what Sinclair Broadcast Group owns is important because its reach directly influences the media landscape in the U.S. Key points include:
- Massive reach: Nearly 180 stations in 80+ markets allow Sinclair to shape news and entertainment for millions.
- Content diversity: Multicast networks and sports holdings broaden its appeal beyond local news.
- Digital growth: Ventures and ad-tech holdings ensure Sinclair adapts to the streaming era.
- Regulatory environment: As one of the largest affiliate owners, Sinclair remains under scrutiny by the FCC and industry watchdogs.
Final Thoughts
So, what does Sinclair Broadcast Group own in 2025? The company controls a vast network of local TV stations, multicast channels like Roar and Comet, national cable assets like the Tennis Channel, and an expanding portfolio of digital and real estate ventures. With new acquisitions, divestitures, and the possibility of restructuring ahead, Sinclair remains a dominant and evolving force in the American media landscape.
As the company continues to reshape its holdings, audiences and advertisers alike will be watching closely to see where Sinclair directs its focus next. What are your thoughts on how Sinclair’s ownership impacts the future of broadcasting?