Birmingham television viewers will soon notice changes to two local stations as part of a new broadcasting agreement between major media companies.
CBS Programming Moving to WVTM 13
Beginning August 1, 2026, WVTM 13 will begin carrying CBS programming on one of its digital channels while continuing to serve as Birmingham’s NBC affiliate. Hearst, the station’s owner, confirmed the change.
Under the new lineup, NBC programming will remain on WVTM’s primary channel. CBS will air on the station’s D4 digital channel, joining MeTV, Story, and GetTV, which will continue airing on the station’s other digital channels.
WIAT 42 Transitions to The CW
As part of the same agreement, WIAT 42 will no longer serve as Birmingham’s CBS affiliate. Instead, the Nexstar-owned station will become a CW Network-owned station.
The change is expected to create more opportunities for local programming. Without a full CBS schedule, WIAT plans to expand its local news coverage and add more community-focused content during daytime and evening hours.
Part of a Larger National Shift
The Birmingham changes are part of a broader realignment affecting television stations in several U.S. markets. Industry reports say similar network affiliation changes will also take place in cities including Albuquerque, Jackson, Greenville, Bismarck, and Rapid City.
The move also marks a return to Channel 13’s history. When WVTM first launched in 1954 as Alabama’s first television station, it carried both NBC and CBS programming before becoming an exclusive NBC affiliate in 1970.
Industry analysts say the changes reflect ongoing shifts in the television business. Broadcasters continue to adapt as streaming services reshape viewing habits and traditional television stations face growing competition for audiences and advertising revenue.
Sign up for the Homely Birmingham newsletter to stay up to date on Birmingham.
