Whatever the "truth" behind the scenes, the various Viacom owned networks were restored to DirecTV sometime Friday. Plus, it's finally providing the hi-def signal for TCM. (I noticed it Thursday just before tCM aired "Forbidden Planet". Yeah, I i know TCM itself was already offering it, but DirecTV finally opted to carry it.
Now, it only it will do the same for BBC America before the season premiere of "Doctor Who" in August. (Hmm, August... I first watched DW in August 1982 with one of my PBS affiliates, WFSU of Tallahassee, FL got the rights. Mercy! Has it really been 30 years?!)
Sincerely,
Bill