Dallas (TX) - HDNet has filed a lawsuit against satellite provider DirecTV for violating its contract, after it announced plans to charge users more money for access to the channel.

On December 15, HDNet and HDNet Movies will be moved to a premium programming package that costs subscribers around an additional $5 per month.

The package, called "HD Extra Pack", will also include Universal HD, MGM HD, Smithsonian HD, and MHD.  Customers will have to pay the fee on top of a $10/month charge they already pay for most other HD channels.

HDNet says this move is in "gross violation of their contractual obligations," according to the lawsuit.  Trade publication Multichannel News reports the suit goes on to accuse DirecTV of taking their channel away from two million HD subscribers and moving it "to a newly created obscure and overpriced package that puts the HDNet channels well beyond the reach of the average television viewer."

However, DirecTV spokesperson Rob Mercer said, "They have not provided any concrete evidence to support their claims.  We are acting in accord with our agreement with HDNet and we will defend the lawsuit vigorously."

DirecTV is seeking an immediate injunctive ruling as well as unspecified monetary damages.

THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!! HDNet

Nov 08, 2007 11:20     

THANK YOU for protecting the True Boss(Customer). I hope the others follow. GREED-DirecTV. I hope you lose your ASS OFF. I'm tired of getting BURN $$$$$$.
Sal report abuse vote down vote up Votes: +0

I pay $8.95 a month on Time Warner for it!

Nov 08, 2007 11:59     

The "HD Extra Pack" on Time Warner (NYC) costs $8.95 and only includes HDNET and MOJO, and these channels STILL have commercials! DirecTV customers are getting a bargain.
Gary report abuse vote down vote up Votes: +0

Go HDNet - DirecTV bait-n-switch makes you lose...

Nov 08, 2007 12:55     

I am one of the subscribers faced with this $5 option on top of $10/mo HD package, and I will not pay it. DirecTv loves the bait and switch, and unfortunately HDNet will suffer. Hope you can make a difference. I love your channels.
BP report abuse vote down vote up Votes: +0

I get HD free!...

Nov 11, 2007 10:51     

I get HD free, both from my cable provider (over 30 channels!) and over-the-air. What, you never thought about getting HD over-the-air? Gees! All together I get about 50 channels of pure HD content, for absolutely zero cost. Don't let these providers tell you HD costs more. It doesn't, and never should.
Narg report abuse vote down vote up Votes: +0