In a historic move, DirecTV has agreed to acquire rival Dish Network for just $1, paving the way for a massive merger in the pay-TV industry. The deal, which comes after years of failed attempts at consolidation, will see DirecTV assume over $20 billion in debt and combine its operations with Dish to create the largest pay-TV provider in the United States. This acquisition is seen as a strategic effort by DirecTV to bolster its position against the increasing competition from streaming services. The merger, subject to regulatory approval, marks a significant shift in the landscape of the satellite television market as AT&T divests its stake in DirecTV, signaling its exit from the entertainment business. Industry insiders view this merger as a pivotal step for both companies, who have been engaged in merger discussions for over two decades.