‘NCIS,’ ‘The Big Bang Theory,’ and more at risk in CBS – Time Warner Cable standoff

Every year, it seems like we have at least one of these sort of stories to report where money and a multitude of demands lead to a pretty complicated battle between networks and cable / satellite providers, one where the former typically always has the leverage, since their programming is what consumers actually watch. Last year, the enormous story was the ongoing battle between Dish Network and AMC, which dragged on for so long that “Breaking Bad” was completely decimated and there was plenty of bad blood on all sides.

Now, the latest major dispute is actually between a major network in CBS and Time Warner Cable, who services millions of homes around America. When you consider that the most-watched comedy and drama on TV, in “The Big Bang Theory” and “NCIS,” air on the network, this is definitely a big deal. “NCIS” stars Michael Weatherly and Pauley Perrette are among those who have tried to get Time Warner subscribers to have their voices heard, and we’re sure that this issue is going to carry over into the weekend.

Originally, the deadline for the current contract was going going to be Thursday morning; however, both parties reached a deal on an extension that will take the deal through to 5:00 p.m.. This, at least to us, is a major suggestion that there is hope for everyone out there frustrated and worried about losing one of their favorite shows for a brief period of time. The network and the company are working on a solution, and we can’t see this being another AMC situation where subscribers are out of luck for an extremely long period of time.

Just in case you want an extra incentive to get active on the campaign trail, just take a look at some of what’s coming up on “NCIS” this season. You never know; this could get you a little more amped up.

Photo: CBS