diff --git a/yt_dlp/extractor/niconico.py b/yt_dlp/extractor/niconico.py
index c05d0ff0be..5e66aebeba 100644
--- a/yt_dlp/extractor/niconico.py
+++ b/yt_dlp/extractor/niconico.py
@@ -1007,7 +1007,7 @@ class NiconicoLiveIE(InfoExtractor):
             if data.get('type') == 'stream':
                 m3u8_url = data['data']['uri']
                 qualities = data['data']['availableQualities']
-                cookies = data['data'].get('cookies', [])
+                cookies = data['data']['cookies']
                 break
             elif data.get('type') == 'disconnect':
                 self.write_debug(recv)