Strictly Business

Music Fans Shrug Off Ticket Price Hikes to Keep Summer Concert Business Humming

Fri, 31 Jul 2026 13:05:00 +0000

The global live music business is enjoying a busy summer touring season, defying ticket-price sensitivity concerns. Andrew Wallenstein, chief insights officer at Luminate, discusses the company's new "Live Music 2026" special report with its author, Luminate analyst Robert Steiner.

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Daily Variety -- California Film Commissioner Colleen Bell Talks State Tax Incentive Battles, Hollywood’s Future and More

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 19:05:00 +0000

On today’s episode, Colleen Bell, director of the California State Film Commission, discusses her wins in her role as the Golden State’s film chief and the hurdles that remain to restore a high volume of TV and film lensing activity in Hollywood's backyard. Bell says the past few years have been a “seminal moment” for the entertainment industry in California. “People want to shoot their projects here. Public policy needs to evolve to meet the moment,” she says.

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Madison Wells Balances Art, Commerce and Audience Demands to Back Movies, TV Shows, Live Events

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 12:30:00 +0000

On today’s episode, Madison Wells chief Gigi Pritzker and newly appointed president and chief content officer Dan Steinman discuss how the well-positioned indie navigates the ups and downs of a transforming marketplace. “We have to be smarter,” Pritzker says. “Even inexpensive movies are expensive,” says Steinman.

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Daily Variety -- Cover Story: Travis Scott Ascends to Culture Moguldom Through Music, Movies, Retail, Business and More

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 19:11:56 +0000

On today’s episode, in our Cover Story segment, Variety’s Angelique Jackson details the time she spent with multihyphenate superstar Travis Scott, who comes off a record-setting music tour with a high-profile role in the movie of the moment, Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey.”

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Daily Variety -- Reba McEntire Revels in 50 Years of Making Music and Season 3 of NBC’s ‘Happy’s Place’

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 20:19:58 +0000

On today's episode, country music superstar Reba McEntire discusses celebrating her golden anniversary in music with a series of EP releases that pair a newly recorded song with several vintage tunes. McEntire also weighs in on how she’s navigated a turbulent TV marketplace to get her NBC comedy “Happy’s Place” to a third season.

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Daily Variety -- 'Scary Movie' Gets a Second Wind in PVOD With Extended Director's Cut

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 16:17:29 +0000

On today’s episode, “Scary Movie” director Michael Tiddes explains how he came to be trusted with the revival of Shawn and Marlon Wayans’ beloved horror comedy franchise. And Tiddes details the extras in the extended director's cut that bowed today on PVOD platforms.

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Daily Variety – Box Office: Christopher Nolan Gets Moviegoers Out in Force for the Trojan Horse

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 21:57:03 +0000

On today’s episode, in our box office segment, Variety’s Rebecca Rubin breaks down the spectacular $264 million worldwide opening for Universal Pictures’ “The Odyssey.” It couldn’t have come at a better time for Imax, the large-format exhibitor that delivered more than 50% of the opening weekend receipts.

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Jon Miller on Media Merger Mayhem: ‘Globalization is Winning’

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 11:30:00 +0000

On today’s episode, Jon Miller, CEO of Integrated Media, offers perspective on what it’s like to be part of a mega-bucks merger that represents an enormous bet on the future. He examines the flurry of deals that are pending, and how the varied motives of the biggest players in media are driving the sector.

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Daily Variety -- Cover Story: What’s Fueling the Box Office Rebound and How Can Hollywood Keep it Going?

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 18:37:54 +0000

On today’s episode, in our Cover Story segment, Variety’s Brent Lang details the comprehensive report that he delivered with Rebecca Rubin on the summer box office rebound, and what Hollywood and exhibitors must do to keep it going.

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Daily Variety – How NBC’s ‘Must See TV’ Branding Campaign of the 1990s Changed America’s Viewing Habits

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 17:39:13 +0000

On today’s episode, as part of Variety’s ongoing series celebrating NBC’s centennial, we revisit the history of NBC’s “Must See TV” branding campaign that came to define the network’s dominance in the 1990s. Jennifer Storms, NBCUniversal’s chief marketing officer for television and streaming, explains how that sturdy foundation helps them reach multiplatform viewers today.

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Daily Variety -- What’s Next for Paramount-Warner Bros. as State AGs Sue; Columbia University’s Eric Talley on Why the Case May Lead to Merger Concessions

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 19:04:57 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Gene Maddaus explains the legal rationale behind the lawsuit filed July 13 by 12 state attorneys general to block the Paramount-Warner Bros. takeover. And Columbia University Law School professor Eric Talley breaks down the power the AGs have to wield and why they will use the pressure of litigation to demand concessions from Paramount.

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Daily Variety -- Box Office: ‘Moana’ is Disney Misstep; ‘Young Washington’ Director Jon Erwin on Making Indies Work at the Multiplexes

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 21:35:05 +0000

On today’s episode, in our Box Office segment, Variety's Rebecca Rubin unpacks what went wrong with Disney’s “Moana” live-action remake. And Jon Erwin, the filmmaker behind “Young Washington,” explains how his Wonder Project banner is making indie theatrical films work as a business.

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Politics Puts a Spotlight on the Production Exodus From California and Other U.S. Filming Hubs

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 14:00:00 +0000

On today's episode, Luminate analyst Tyler Aquilina details his report, "Hollywood Exodus," on the production crisis in L.A. in a conversation with host Andrew Wallenstein.

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Daily Variety –- James Corden Reunites 'The Late Late Show' Team for Fox's 'After Hours' World Cup Show

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 21:07:22 +0000

Three years after he signed off CBS’ “The Late Late Show,” James Corden is having the time of his life hosting the World Cup after show for Fox, “After Hours With James Corden.” The multihyphenate discusses the joy of indulging in his lifelong love of football and why the call from Fox Sports was the one hosting gig that he's been offered in recent years that he couldn't turn down.

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Daily Variety -- Netflix, Disney+ and Amazon Fight in France Over Streaming Quotas and Theatrical Windowing Rules

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 21:09:39 +0000

On today’s episode,Variety’s Elsa Keslassy explains the battle that is brewing in France between Netflix and other streamers over the country’s programming quotas and its theatrical movie windowing rules.

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Daily Variety -- What’s Driving Microsoft’s Massive Overhaul of Xbox?

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 22:34:13 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Jennifer Maas details Microsoft’s massive overhaul of its Xbox unit with 3,200 layoffs and a realignment of operations coming under newly appointed Xbox CEO Asha Sharma.

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Daily Variety – Box Office: ‘Minions and Monsters’ Delivers Tepid U.S. Debut in a Muted July 4th Weekend; Why Comcast’s Sky is Buying ITV

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:17:16 +0000

Variety’s Rebecca Rubin breaks down a muted July 4th holiday weekend at the box office with a tepid U.S. opening for Universal and Illumination’s “Minions and Monsters” but a solid turnout for indie Angel Studios’ “Young Washington.” And Variety's K.J. Yossman explains why Comcast's Sky has struck a deal to buy U.K. broadcaster ITV for $2.1 billion.

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Strictly Business From Cannes Lions: Leaders From NBCUniversal, IBM, State Farm, Autodesk and Coinbase on Consumer Trends, AI and Reaching Audiences Amid Fragmentation

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 17:35:01 +0000

Top leaders from NBCUniversal, IBM, State Farm, Autodesk and Coinbase talk shop and compare notes on marketing, tech and consumer trends in conversations with Todd Spangler, Variety's business editor. Recorded June 22-25 in the Canva Creative Cabana space at the Cannes Lions international festival of creativity.

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Daily Variety -- How David Fincher and Zach Cregger Secretly Shaped Netflix’s Game-TV Hybrid 'Unhinged'

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 18:19:09 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Jennifer Maas explains how notable directors David Fincher and Zach Cregger helped shape Netflix’s ambitious new property “Unhinged,” which is a video game that plays like a TV series and your smartphone is the controller.

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Daily Variety -- So Long, LeBron! What the Lakers Shakeup Means for the NBA and for L.A.'s Sports Star Power

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 18:57:05 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Marlow Stern unpacks LeBron James’ decision to leave the Los Angeles Lakers after eight seasons and one championship title. The shakeup leaves one of the NBA’s most high-profile teams a little short on star power.

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Daily Variety – CNBC Chief KC Sullivan on Transforming the Linear TV Business in a Global World: ‘We’re Very Much on Offense’

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 20:28:03 +0000

On today’s episode, CNBC president KC Sullivan discusses the channel’s evolution following the Versant Media spinoff. The preeminent financial news network is transforming from a business rooted in linear cable to multiplatform digital. “We’re very much on offense,” Sullivan told Variety during last week’s Cannes Lions festival.

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Daily Variety -- Box Office: ‘Supergirl’ Stumbles, ‘Toy Story 5’ Flexes and ‘Michael’ Hits a Milestone; Why Comcast is Splitting NBCUniversal and Sky From Cable

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 18:14:15 +0000

On today’s episode, in our Box Office segment, Variety’s Jack Dunn breaks down a rough weekend for “Supergirl” and a big frame for “Toy Story 5” and “Michael.” And Todd Spangler explains why Comcast is hauling out the corporate meat cleaver to separate NBCUniversal and Sky from the core Comcast cable and tech assets.

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'Strictly Business' Live From Cannes Lions: AWS, Deloitte and Sony Pictures Execs on Getting Your 'Hands Dirty' With Tech and Data to Solve Hard Problems

Sat, 27 Jun 2026 18:00:00 +0000

On a special Cannes Lions edition, top leaders from AWS, Deloitte and Sony Pictures Entertainment get into the details of how organizations can best use new technology and data tools for transformation. Executives need to get their "hands dirty" in order to harness the power of tech to streamline and address complex problems. That was one key takeaway from the Variety “Strictly Business” Podcast Live presented by AWS & Deloitte, held June 24 at Cannes Lions.

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Daily Variety -- 'Abbott Elementary' Exec Producer Justin Halpern Juggles TV Series and a New Novel

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 01:18:27 +0000

On today’s episode, writer and showrunner Justin Halpern speaks with Variety’s Michael Schneider about the road to writing his novel “Get Lost,” which will be released next month. Halpern updates Schneider on a few TV development projects, including the status of high school memoir “I Suck at Girls” at Netflix and the upcoming season of ABC’s “Abbott Elementary,” on which he is an EP.

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Strictly Business Cannes Lions Edition: Fox's Rob Wade and Billy Parks Hope to Bring Scale to the Creator Economy

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 17:16:15 +0000

On a special Cannes Lions edition of "Strictly Business," Fox Entertainment CEO Rob Wade explains why the company is going all-in on the creator economy with the launch of the Fox Creator Studios division to partner with promising creators who are eager to grow. Josh Richards, one of the first wave of creators to align with Fox, explains the appeal of the effort to bridge old and new school in media.

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Eddy Cue and Jerry Bruckheimer talk ‘F1’ Sequel – Brad Pitt ‘Would Like to Get in That Car Again’ – and Apple’s Evolution in Movies and TV in Cannes Lions Sitdown With Variety

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 16:27:20 +0000

On today’s episode, Apple content chief Eddy Cue and producer Jerry Bruckheimer speak to Variety at the Cannes Lions festival about the tech giant’s influence in entertainment, how they’re working to get Brad Pitt back into a fast car for an “F1” movie sequel and how Apple’s incoming CEO feels about the company's expansion into TV and film.

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Daily Variety –- ‘Toy Story 5’ Opens Big and So Does Cannes Lions

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 17:42:34 +0000

On today’s episode, in our Box Office segment, Variety’s Rebecca Rubin breaks down 2026’s biggest weekend at the turnstiles to date with “Toy Story 5” delivering the goods for Disney and Pixar. That turnout has lifted the summer-to-date box office to within striking distance of 2019. And the Cannes Lions festival gets off to a busy – and muggy – start on the Côte d'Azur.

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Ken Ziffren Tackles a New Spin on Fin-Syn and Reflects on Six Decades of Hollywood Lawyering

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 17:27:13 +0000

The elder statesman of Hollywood attorneys, Ken Ziffren has logged more than 50 years in Los Angeles’ legal community. He’s represented a wide range of players from the late great showrunner entrepreneur Stephen J. Cannell to the Television Academy to the Directors Guild of America. In this conversation with host Cynthia Littleton, Ziffren touches on his effort to re-establish some content ownership restrictions for the industry's largest players, the state of AI in entertainment, how Hollywood's woes are affecting the Southern California economy and how dealmaking has changed markedly over the decades.

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Daily Variety -- Owen Gleiberman Unpacks Why We Love ‘Toy Story’: ‘Some of the Greatest Movies Ever Made About Childhood’

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 16:22:46 +0000

On today’s episode, Owen Gleiberman, Variety’s chief film critic, sings the praises of Pixar’s “Toy Story” movies as the fifth installment arrives in theaters on June 19. Pixar’s pioneering CG animated series, which began in 1995, amounts to “some of the greatest movies ever made about childhood,” Gleiberman enthuses.

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Daily Variety -- Latino Donor Collaborative Makes the Business Case Why Hollywood Loses Money by Ignoring Latinos

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 20:42:33 +0000

On today's episode, Ana Valdez, president and CEO of the Latino Donor Collaborative, details the nonprofit organization's work with McKinsey & Co. on their l atest report on Latino representation in mainstream movies and TV shows. The numbers are going in the wrong direction, and that means Hollywood is leaving money on the table, as Valdez explains.

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Daily Variety -- Hollywood's Problems Intersect With California Politics Like Never Before as Showbiz Rallies Around a Federal Production Tax Incentive

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 21:12:21 +0000

On today’s episode, in our Cover Story segment, Variety’s Gene Maddaus unpacks the brawl that has erupted as Hollywood’s systemic problems become a pivotal political issue in the race for L.A. mayor and California governor.

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Daily Variety -- 'Disclosure Day' Adds to Summer Box Office Momentum; Why Fox is Buying Roku

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 20:16:19 +0000

On today’s episode, in our Box Office segment, Variety’s Rebecca Rubin weighs the opening weekend of Steven Spielberg’s “Disclosure Day." And Todd Spangler breaks down the surprise news of Fox Corp.’s acquisition of Roku.

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Mike Hopkins on Prime Video’s Evolution, the Bundling Boom, How MGM Changed Amazon, the Future of Bond and No Regrets on 'Melania'

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 17:00:15 +0000

On today's episode, Mike Hopkins, head of Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios, gives a wide-ranging interview on the evolution of Amazon’s media strategy, how the MGM acquisition has changed the company, why the streamer is investing heavily in sports and why Amazon has no regrets about the Melania Trump documentary film and upcoming docu-series. Hopkins also touches on the Amazon channels business and the boom in bundling, AI, Amazon MGM’s approach to theatrical film and, of course, the future of James Bond.

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Daily Variety – David Harbour Finds a Port in the Storm in ‘DTF St. Louis’; ‘Toy Story 5’ Red Carpet Rundown

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 16:35:40 +0000

On today’s episode, in our Cover Story segment, Variety’s Daniel D’Addario details his time with David Harbour as the actor tries to navigate that trickiest of transitions – moving on from a career-making role after five seasons as Jim Hopper on Netflix’s “Stranger Things.” And Marc Malkin brings us a Red Carpet Rundown with Taylor Swift and Joan Cusack from Disney’s “Toy Story 5” premiere.

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Daily Variety -- How NBC Created the Broadcast Network Paradigm and Other Firsts; Andy Cohen Reflects on 20 Years of 'Real Housewives'

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 19:04:47 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety's Michael Schneider discusses Variety’s plans to take a long look at NBC's centennial and its role in advancing mass media in the electronic age with the creation of the first radio network. And we have highlights from Kate Aurthur’s recent sit-down with Andy Cohen at the Newport Beach TV Fest. The two reflect on the “ongoing documentary project” that is “The Real Housewives” franchise.

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Daily Variety -- 'GTA 6,' Xbox Exclusives, Paramount Revs Game Studio and More From Summer Game Fest

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 16:35:56 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Jennifer Maas reports on Summer Game Fest, the gaming industry’s annual product showcase. Xbox and Paramount made news with strategic shifts and an executive appointment. Overall, Maas observes that the mood among insiders was better at this year’s event compared to last year, when the games sector was hit by layoffs and disappointing releases.

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Daily Variety -- 'Scary Movie' Tops Box Office as 'Masters of the Universe' Stumbles

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 20:02:28 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Brent Lang breaks down a busy weekend at the turnstiles as “Scary Movie” returned for its first installment in 13 years – and first in 25 years with a Wayans at the helm. And it was a truly scary weekend for Amazon MGM Studios’ “Masters of the Universe,” which stumbled in its opening weekend.

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Credit Risks: Top S&P Global Ratings Analyst Breaks Down the Paramount-Warner Bros. Discovery Merger

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The proposed $111 billion merger between Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery is approaching completion, but concerns around debt, execution risk, and long-term industry volatility loom large. Naveen Sarma, sector lead for U.S. media and telecom at S&P Global, breaks down the opportunities and potential pitfalls ahead for the company, and he explains why S&P Global downgraded Paramount Skydance's credit rating after it clinched the WBD deal agreement.

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Daily Variety -- '60 Minutes’ Explodes With Firings, a Hiring and Questions About the Venerable News Program’s Future

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 14:54:22 +0000

On today's episode, Variety's Brian Steinberg breaks down the implosion at "60 Minutes." Scott Pelley joins the list of correspondents getting the ax as a new executive producer, Nick Bilton, and CBS News editor in chief Bari Weiss look to put their stamp on the venerable news program.

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Daily Variety -- All3Media’s Jane Turton Talks Banijay Merger and What She’s Learned From David Zaslav, John Malone and Jeff Zucker

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 21:53:25 +0000

On today’s episode, All3Media CEO Jane Turton discusses the company’s pending merger with Banijay and the footprint that the combined entity will have across TV, film, digital, documentaries and live events. Also, Phebe Hunnicutt, Warner Music Group’s London-based global marketing chief, offers insights on working with creators to boost awareness of artists and tunes. Both conversations were held June 2 at Shoreditch House in London as part of Variety’s Power of Women London celebration.

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Daily Variety -- 'Backrooms' and 'Obsession' Rattle the Box Office as Gen Z Embraces its Own Horror Helmers

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 17:12:39 +0000

On today’s episode, in our Box Office segment, Variety’s Rebecca Rubin unpacks the eye-popping stats delivered by A24’s “Backrooms” and weekend three of Focus Features' “Obsession.” It’s a one-two punch of low-budget horror from digital-native directors, and it was enough to KO the second weekend of Disney and Lucasfilm’s “The Mandalorian and Grogu.” However, theater owners aren't complaining, as Rubin explains.

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Daily Variety -- 'The U.S. Against the World' Director-Producer Rand Getlin Documents the Road to the World Cup

Thu, 28 May 2026 19:30:42 +0000

On today’s episode of “Daily Variety” podcast, Rand Getlin, director-executive producer of the HBO documentary “U.S. Against the World: Four Years With the Men’s National Soccer Team,” discusses the road to the World Cup and the rising popularity of men’s and women’s soccer in America.

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Daily Variety -- Karen Bass, Spencer Pratt and the Brawl in the L.A. Mayoral Race

Wed, 27 May 2026 17:34:02 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Gene Maddaus tries to make sense of California’s fractious electoral politics as the June 2 primary approaches. He explains why incumbent Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass is hoping that the primary leaves her in a runoff against reality star Spencer Pratt, and why so many top contenders opted to sit out the state’s gubernatorial race.

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Daily Variety -- 'The Mandalorian and Grogu' and a Magnificent 'Obsession' Drive Holiday Box Office

Tue, 26 May 2026 20:18:48 +0000

On today's episode, in our box office segment, Variety's Rebecca Rubin carefully measures the turnout over the Memorial Day weekend holiday for Disney's “The Mandalorian and Grogu.” It was a big test for Disney and Lucasfilm and the strength of the Star Wars franchise at the turnstiles. Meanwhile, Focus Features' horror pic "Obsession" had a strong sophomore weekend outing.

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When Cultures Collide: What Big Brands Need to Reach Gen Z and Gen Alpha Consumers

Fri, 22 May 2026 13:30:00 +0000

On today’s episode of Variety’s “Strictly Business” podcast, Havas Play executives Andrea Isaac and Juliet Tierney share insights on reaching Gen Z and Gen Alpha consumers – and the differences that distinguish them. The senior leaders of the branded content and experiential marketing unit of Havas discuss the sea change in marketing priorities and the need for brands to resonate in culture and across a range of fan communities. The key for the biggest marketers is learning to “understand strategy from a culture standpoint” in ways that are radically different from past practices, says Isaac, who is Havas Play’s managing partner for North America.

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Daily Variety – Box Office: ‘Michael’ Returns to No. 1 as Exhibitors Brace for ‘The Mandalorian and Grogu’ and the Start of Summer Blockbuster Season

Mon, 18 May 2026 18:51:56 +0000

On today’s episode, in our Box Office segment, Variety’s Rebecca Rubin explains why Lionsgate’s “Michael” made a surprise return to No. 1 in a weekend that marks the calm before the start of summer blockbuster season next week with Disney’s “The Mandalorian and Grogu” opening over Memorial Day weekend.

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Did OpenAI Kill What Disney's 'Super App' Needs Most?

Fri, 15 May 2026 13:00:00 +0000

With all the bells and whistles rumored to be a part of Disney's "super app" plans, there's one feature that can be ruled out at this time: the AI magic the company had been conjuring via its recently aborted partnership with OpenAI. Which begs a question: Will consumers ever be able to create videos that allow them to direct their favorite fictional characters? Jeremy Toeman, senior VP of AI innovation at JWX, helps sort through the possibilities.

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Daily Variety – Upfronts 2026: What We Learned From TV's Biggest Platforms; Crafting the Music of ‘Heated Rivalry’

Thu, 14 May 2026 17:45:34 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Michael Schneider breaks down the last lap of upfronts week as Warner Bros. Discovery, Netflix and YouTube grab the megaphone. And Variety music chief Jem Aswad goes deep on the music of “Heated Rivalry” in a session with showrunner Jacob Tierney, composer Peter Peter and music supervisor Scotty Taylor. It was recorded May 7 at Toronto’ s Departure Festival for music creatives.

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Daily Variety -- ‘Survivor’ at 50: What Makes CBS’ Reality Franchise So Durable?

Wed, 13 May 2026 20:39:55 +0000

On today’s episode, in our Cover Story segment, we put the spotlight on “Survivor” as the reality stalwart hits Season 50. As detailed by Variety’s Emily Longeretta and Selome Hailu, CBS’ innovative and enduring unscripted juggernaut has set the standard for the reality-competition genre for 26 years and counting.

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Daily Variety – Tech Talk, Streaming, Sports and Reboots Dominate Upfronts; NBCUniversal’s Liz Jenkins on Risk-Taking Amid Disruption

Tue, 12 May 2026 18:45:02 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Brian Steinberg reports on the triple-header kickoff of Upfronts week after attending Monday’s NBCUniversal, Fox and Amazon Prime Video presentations. He parses each platform's pitch to Madison Avenue. And we’ll hear from NBCUniversal Entertainment chief business officer Liz Jenkins on risk-taking in the time of disruption, in remarks delivered this month at SeriesFest in Denver. "We've found our cruising altitude again," she says.

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Daily Variety – Upfronts 2026: Disney’s Rita Ferro Details the Mouse House’s Cross-Platform Push, Embracing Live and Connecting Grammys, Super Bowl and the Oscars for the Biggest Brands

Mon, 11 May 2026 15:57:17 +0000

On today’s special Upfronts-themed episode, Rita Ferro, Disney’s president of global advertising, offers a preview of the Mouse House’s May 12 presentation to advertisers in New York. Ferro details Disney’s plan to link the live spectacle of the Grammys, the Super Bowl and the Oscars for big brands. She gives her perspective on the state of the scatter market, the mood of the upfront compared to last year, and how Disney is embracing the creator economy.

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Inside the Unprecedented Growth of Hasbro's Magic: The Gathering and Trading Card Game's High-Stakes Pro Competition

Sat, 09 May 2026 12:00:00 +0000

On today's episode, Variety's Jennifer Maas takes a deep dive on the rabid fandom around Hasbro's Magic: The Gathering collectible trading card game. Maas collected insights and perspectives from die-hard fans who attended the MagicCon fan convention held May 1-3 in Las Vegas.

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Daily Variety -- Kate del Castillo Brings 'La Reina del Sur' Back to Telemundo for Season 4: 'Teresa Mendoza Will be Touching Hell,' She Promises

Thu, 07 May 2026 19:17:42 +0000

On today’s episode, global star Kate del Castillo details the return of “La Reina del Sur” for a fourth season on Telemundo next year. Her widow-turned-crime boss character Teresa Mendoza will “be touching hell,” del Castillo promises. She also touches on the state of the content marketplace and how the Trump administration’s brutal crackdown on undocumented immigrants has changed life for Latinos in the U.S.

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Daily Variety – Cover Story: How Javier Bardem Tackles Cannes – and Hollywood -- on His Own Terms

Wed, 06 May 2026 17:02:28 +0000

On today’s episode, in our Cover Story segment, Variety’s Daniel D’Addario details his sit-down in Madrid with Javier Bardem, the incredibly busy Spaniard actor who brings the family drama “The Beloved” to the Cannes Film Festival this year. Bardem opens up to D’Addario about the arc of his career, his advocacy for Palestinians and the depth of his love for his wife, Oscar-winner Penélope Cruz, and the family life they share far outside Hollywood.

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Daily Variety -- How Gen Z and Gen Alpha are Saving Moviegoing; 10 Questions With Colin Hanks and Ryan Reynolds

Tue, 05 May 2026 17:26:32 +0000

On today’s episode, we hear from top movie marketers who discuss the uptick in Gen Z and Gen Alpha moviegoing that is helping to drive the spring’s strong box office. And Variety’s Michael Schneider brings us a bonkers "10 Questions With" Colin Hanks and Ryan Reynolds, who collaborated on the documentary “John Candy: I Like Me.”

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Daily Variety – Box Office: ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ Steps Lively and Repeats

Mon, 04 May 2026 17:53:11 +0000

On today’s episode, in our Box Office segment, Variety’s Jack Dunn breaks down the eye-popping opening weekend for 20th Century’s “The Devil Wears Prada 2” and a strong week 2 hold for last week’s surprise hit, “Michael.” The triumphant return of Miranda Priestly and Co. adds momentum and diversity to what has been a surprisingly strong spring at the multiplexes.

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Why Hollywood is Increasingly Leaning on Gaming Platforms to Promote Movies

Fri, 01 May 2026 14:07:15 +0000

On today’s episode, Luminate’s Kaare Eriksen goes deep on how and why Hollywood is leveraging gaming platforms to promote movies. Nic Hill, co-founder and chief innovation officer at Sawhorse Productions, explains how studios are tapping into 360-degree marketing strategies to stoke fandom for key franchises, particularly PG-13 and family-friendly titles.

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Daily Variety – Happy Anniversary, Television! Looking Ahead to Variety’s TV Week Events and Looking Back at the Medium's Launch at the 1939 New York World’s Fair

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 16:18:37 +0000

On today’s episode, we look ahead at plans for Variety’s TV Week celebration with Variety’s Emily Longeretta. And we take a Vintage Variety look back at the momentous launch of television in the U.S. on the opening day of the New York World’s Fair in 1939, 87 years ago today.

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Daily Variety -- Cover Story: Kacey Musgraves Embraces Her Silly Side With 'Middle of Nowhere' Album and Tour

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 16:58:17 +0000

On today’s episode, in our Cover Story segment, Variety’s Chris Willman details his interview with country star Kacey Musgraves as she begins a new chapter of her life and her career. It’s a very revealing interview, just like Musgraves’ new album “Middle of Nowhere,” which bows May 1.

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Daily Variety – Aaron Tracy Explores the Life of the Author Who Excited Children’s Imaginations in ‘The Secret World of Roald Dahl’

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 18:24:30 +0000

On today’s episode, writer-producer Aaron Tracy discusses his hugely popular Imagine/iHeart Media podcast “The Secret World of Roald Dahl.” The author of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” “James and the Giant Peach,” “Matilda,” “The BFG” and many more classics lived a wild life that Tracy unpacks in his 10-part series.

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Daily Variety – Box Office: Record Opening for ‘Michael’ Thrills Exhibitors and Fans; Surprise Madonna Appearance Lights Up West Hollywood

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 17:25:54 +0000

On today’s episode, in our Box Office segment, Variety’s Rebecca Rubin breaks down the record-setting opening for Lionsgate’s musical biopic “Michael.” And Marc Malkin brings us a Just for Variety report on Madonna’s visit to the Abbey in West Hollywood.

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NBCUniversal's Pearlena Igbokwe on the Return of Pilots, the Value of Co-Viewing and Threading Shows Through Broadcast and Streaming Platforms

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 16:48:51 +0000

On today’s episode, NBCUniversal’s Pearlena Igbokwe details the company’s key areas of focus following the Versant Media spinoff. The leader of NBCU’s TV production operations and programming for NBC and Peacock discusses the return of the pilot process at NBC, the importance of multigenerational co-viewing and harnessing the power of broadcast and streaming platforms. The conversation was recorded April 23 as part of Variety's annual Entertainment Marketing Summit in Beverly Hills.

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Daily Variety – Tina Knowles on Dressing Destiny’s Child in the Early Days; Ashley Graham on Fighting for Plus Size Women and Starring in ‘Chicago’

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 17:59:48 +0000

On today’s episode, entrepreneurs Tina Knowles and Ashley Graham explain how they have blazed trails to build powerful media and retail brands in highlights from Variety’s annual Entertainment Marketing Summit.

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Daily Variety -- Why the Warner Bros.-Paramount Deal 'Symbolizes Big Changes in the Industry'

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 16:09:59 +0000

On today’s episode, Erik Gordon, professor at the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business, breaks down the Warner Bros. Discovery sale saga as the company’s shareholders prepare to vote on the sale to Paramount Skydance.

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Daily Variety -- Hollywood Wants to Know More About Tim Cook's Successor at Apple; BookCon Returns With Focus on Romantasy and Adaptations

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 18:55:08 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Jennifer Maas reports on the return of BookCon to New York and the emergence of a new generation of romance novels – think “Heated Rivalry” -- as a creative force in Hollywood. And the entertainment industry is eager to get to know John Ternus, who will succeed Tim Cook as Apple CEO in September.

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Daily Variety – Box Office: ‘Mother Mary’ Shows Promise, ‘Lee Cronin’s The Mummy’ Not So Much; CinemaCon Buzzes About Windows and Warner Bros.

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 16:25:26 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Brent Lang breaks down the weekend box office, and Lang gives us his takeaways and impressions about the state of the film industry from his time at CinemaCon last week.

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Betches Media CEO and Founder Aleen Dreksler on Building a Digital Hub for Women With Comedy and Community

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 18:58:53 +0000

Aleen Dreksler, CEO and founder of Betches Media, details the digital media brand's origin story and why it blossomed into a hub for comedy and community designed for women. The episode also features a separate conversation from the SXSW festival that highlighted Variety's recent 10 Creators to Watch list.

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Daily Variety – Hollywood Marshals Opposition to Paramount-Warner Bros. Discovery Merger. Will It Matter?; ‘Lorne’ Measures the Man Behind ‘SNL'

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 17:51:07 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Todd Spangler details the growing opposition within media and entertainment to Paramount Skydance’s acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery. And Marc Malkin talks to documentary filmmaker Morgan Neville about his Focus Features documentary “Lorne,” about the enigmatic “Saturday Night Live” leader.

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Daily Variety – What Did the Writers Guild of America Achieve in its Four-Year Contract With Studios and Streamers?

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 16:14:33 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Gene Maddaus details the Writers Guild of America’s four-year contract agreement with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers that will be sent out to members for a ratification vote on April 16. This time around, the guild’s focus was all about shoring up its health care plan.

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Daily Variety -- Coachella vs. Couchella -- Debating the Experience; Big Moments From Karol G, Addison Rae, Sombr, Slayyter, Clipse, Wet Leg, Jamie xx and More

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 19:37:41 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety music mavens Jem Aswad, Chris Willman and Steven J. Horowitz unpack the first weekend of the Coachella music festival. The three discuss the experience of attending the desert festival in person versus taking it in as “Couchella” via the YouTube live stream, and they break down impressive sets from Karol G, Addison Rae, Sombr, Slayyter, Clipse, Wet Leg and Jamie xx, among others.

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Daily Variety -- Box Office: 'Super Mario Galaxy Movie' Holds Strong for Universal; John Waters Cruises to His 80th Birthday

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 17:36:21 +0000

On today’s episode, in our Box Office segment, Variety’s Jack Dunn unpacks another big weekend for “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie” as well as the art of analyzing Friday night box office numbers. And Marc Malkin brings us a Just for Variety interview with John Waters, the iconoclastic director who turns 80 on April 22.

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Filmmaker Paul Feig Talks Test Screenings, Loving Popcorn Movies and Bringing Fans Back to Theaters

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 17:20:19 +0000

On today's episode, filmmaker Paul Feig speaks with Variety's Matt Donnelly about the state of moviemaking, Hollywood's great contraction and why he is an unabashed fan of popcorn pics. The conversation was held April 8 at Variety's annual Power of Law breakfast event in Los Angeles.

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Daily Variety – Cannes Film Festival Slate Prizes European Auteurs; Patricia Glaser Defends Casey Wasserman and More From Variety’s Power of Law

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 18:47:19 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Brent Lang and Elsa Keslassy analyze this year's Cannes Film Festival lineup which puts the accent on European auteur filmmakers. And top Hollywood litigator Patricia Glaser talks tough about social media, the Southern California economy, and she offers a full-throated defense of Casey Wasserman at Variety's Power of Law breakfast.

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Daily Variety – The Inside Scoop on the Farewell Season of ‘Hacks’; Power of Law: Ziffren Institute Chief Cindy Lin on Cutting-Edge Issues for Entertainment Law

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 15:39:11 +0000

On today’s episode, in our Cover Story segment, Variety’s Michael Schneider details his reporting and the incredible access he received to cover the fifth and final season of HBO Max’s beloved comedy “Hacks.” And Cindy Lin, executive director of UCLA’s Ziffren Institute for Media, Entertainment, Technology and Sports, discusses the big developments in entertainment law as Variety unveils our annual Power of Law issue including this year’s Legal Impact Report honorees.

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Daily Variety -- Andra Day on Why She Supports No Kid Hungry's Campaign to End Childhood Hunger: 'It's of the Utmost Importance'

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 18:17:29 +0000

On today’s episode, actor and singer Andra Day joins us to talk about her involvement in the Night Out for No Kid Hungry fundraiser set for April 11 at Rolling Greens in downtown Los Angeles. Day also says that she will have new music coming soon. "I haven't decided whether it's going to be a series of EPs or a full album yet," she says.

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Daily Variety -- 'The Super Mario Galaxy Movie' Illuminates the Box Office But Leaves Room for 'Project Hail Mary'

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 17:13:48 +0000

On today’s episode, in our Box Office segment, Variety’s Rebecca Rubin breaks down the big worldwide opening for Universal and Illumination’s “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie.” The moviegoing galaxy was big enough for Amazon MGM Studios’ “Project Hail Mary” to hold on strong in week 3.

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How Streamer BritBox Shapes U.K. TV Strategy Through Success With American Audiences

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 13:00:00 +0000

Robert Schildhouse, CEO of direct-to-consumer for BBC Studios, details the growing popularity of streamer BritBox and its loyal U.S. subscribers. "We have to earn our way into the living room like every streaming service does," Schildhouse says.

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Daily Variety – Box Office: ‘Project Hail Mary’ Holds on Tight to No. 1; Why ‘The Bold and the Beautiful’ is Launching a Streaming App

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 22:12:26 +0000

On today’s episode, in our Box Office segment, Variety’s Brent Lang breaks down the numbers and a second-weekend sigh of relief at Amazon MGM Studios as “Project Hail Mary” hangs in at No. 1. And Michael Schneider speaks to daytime TV soap mogul Bradley Bell, the writer-producer who has launched a subscription app for diehard fans of CBS’ “The Bold and the Beautiful.”

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'Love Story' Producers Brad Simpson and Nina Jacobson on the Fateful Final Episode, Working With Ryan Murphy and FX and Why They Support Producers United

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 17:38:28 +0000

On today’s episode, “Strictly Business” speaks with “Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette” executive producers Brad Simpson and Nina Jacobson about the Ryan Murphy-FX drama that examines how a fairy-tale romance collided with the fearsome power of fame. The partners in the Color Force film and TV banner also assess the health of the film and TV sales marketplace, and the pair are frank about why they support the Producers United campaign.

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Daily Variety – OpenAI Shuts Down Sora, Disney Dodges Video AI Bullet, For Now

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 18:28:30 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Todd Spangler and Gene Maddaus examine why OpenAI abruptly pulled the plug on its generative AI video creation model, Sora, and why Disney insiders are relieved that the Mouse House's character licensing deal with Sora has gone away, as has Disney's plan to invest $1 billion in OpenAI. Maddaus and Spangler explain what just happened -- and why SAG-AFTRA deserves to take a victory lap.

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Daily Variety – Star Trek is Adrift: Why ‘Starfleet Academy’ is Folding After Two Seasons

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 18:38:20 +0000

On today’s episode, we’re talking “Star Trek” and its future with Variety’s Joe Otterson. He broke the news that Paramount+’s “Starfleet Academy” will end after just two seasons and showrunner Alex Kurtzman is likely to pass the baton as the creative steward of the franchise for TV. Otterson unpacks what’s next for the beloved space opera in TV and film.

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Daily Variety – ‘The Comeback’: Lisa Kudrow Brings Valerie Cherish Back for a Final Adventure on HBO

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 17:48:09 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Kate Aurthur details the 21-year, three-season journey that Lisa Kudrow and Michael Patrick King have been on with “The Comeback” as the offbeat comedy takes its final lap on HBO.

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Daily Variety – ‘Project Hail Mary’ Brings the Business for Amazon MGM; Hong Kong Filmart Reflects China’s Muscle, AI’s Advance and Microdrama Fever

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 16:35:07 +0000

On today’s episode, in our Box Office segment, Variety's Brent Lang breaks down a big opening weekend for Amazon MGM Studios and its Ryan Gosling fantasy vehicle “Project Hail Mary.” And Naman Ramachandran reports on the mood at Hong Kong Filmart, where AI and China dominate the conversation among top Asian producers, distributors and talent.

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Google TV Embraces Microdrama Boom With Discovery and Navigation Tools as Producers Tackle Format: 'We Want to Be HBO Mashed Up With TikTok'

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 17:42:52 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Kate Aurthur hosts a “Strictly Business Live” conversation from the SXSW Festival in Austin, Texas. Google TV hosted a Next Generation Podcast Brunch featuring a conversation with Google’s Juanjo Duran and VeYou founder and CEO Tommy Harper. The pair discuss the burgeoning business of microdramas and how Google TV is integrating the format into its content hubs.

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Daily Variety -- Cover Story: Happy at Last, Miley Cyrus Reclaims the Legacy of ‘Hannah Montana’

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 17:32:17 +0000

On today’s episode, in our Cover Story segment, Variety’s Ethan Shanfeld details his profile of Miley Cyrus as she embraces the legacy of “Hannah Montana," tackling stage fright and the buzz about her possibly playing the Super Bowl Halftime Show.

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Daily Variety -- Zendaya Dresses to Impress; Cult-Fave Series 'On Cinema at the Cinema' Hits the Road

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 17:39:34 +0000

On today’s episode, we’ll hear from Variety’s Marc Malkin on his chat with Zendaya on the red carpet for A24’s The Drama. And Variety reporter Jack Dunn details one of his cult-favorite digital series, Tim Heidecker's “On Cinema at the Cinema” and why it’s had such a long run with Gen Z cinephiles.

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Daily Variety – Tales from Variety’s True Crime Summit at SXSW: Nancy Grace on Kouri Richins, Eva Pilgrim and Producers of ‘Wisecrack,’ ‘Quiet on Set’ and More

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 19:00:42 +0000

On today’s episode, hear from Nancy Grace on Kouri Richins, Eva Pilgrim, producers of “Quiet on Set,” “The Fall of Diddy,” “Lost Women of Alaska,” “Wisecrack” and executives from ID, Audible, Pushkin Industries, Sony Podcasts and more in highlights from Variety’s True Crime Summit at SXSW.

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Daily Variety -- Box Office: 'Reminders of Him' Expands the Hoover-verse; 'Hoppers' Hangs Tough

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 18:11:25 +0000

On today’s episode, in our Box Office segment, Variety’s Rebecca Rubin unpacks the rise of the Hoover-verse as author Colleen Hoover’s latest film adaptation, Universal’s “Reminders of Him,” is No. 1 at the multiplexes.

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How Kpop is Widening the Funnel for an Asian Music Boom

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 13:05:00 +0000

From 'Kpop Demon Hunters' to the upcoming BTS album, Kpop is well into its global domination phase. But as analyst Robert Steiner explores in his new Luminate special report, the Korean music phenomenon is really just part of a bigger movement across Asia, where markets like Japan, India and China are poised to follow in Kpop's footsteps.

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Daily Variety – Hollywood Labor Negotiations: What to Expect as the WGA Heads to the Bargaining Table

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 17:49:47 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Gene Maddaus offers an update on the contract negotiations between SAG-AFTRA and the major studios and streamers. The Writers Guild of America is next up at the table starting March 16.

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Daily Variety – COVER STORY: Oscars Rewind With Nicole Kidman as She Revisits Her 2003 Best Actress Win for 'The Hours'

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 18:49:57 +0000

On today’s episode, in our Cover Story segment, Variety’s Matt Donnelly details his sit-down in Nashville with Nicole Kidman for Variety’s pre-Oscars issue, published today in print and online. Kidman revisits the whirlwind experience of her best actress Oscar win for “The Hours” in 2003.

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Daily Variety -- The Collab Behind Variety's 10 Creators to Watch List; Why Bars are Hosting More TV Watch Parties

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 18:14:50 +0000

On today’s episode, we’ll hear from Variety’s Antonio Ferme and Harper Mays on how the two assembled Variety’s 10 Creators to Watch list this year reflecting fast-rising, entertainment-centered social media stars. And Variety’s Payton Turkeltaub explains why so many people are taking their TV with cocktails and friends as watch party events for fan-favorite shows proliferate in bars and restaurants.

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Daily Variety -- 'Hoppers' Tops the Box Office While 'The Bride' Gets Jilted

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 20:11:41 +0000

On today’s episode, in our Box Office segment, Variety’s Brent Lang unpacks what went wrong for Warner Bros.’ “The Bride” and what went right for Pixar’s “Hoppers” this weekend. And then we step into the Wayback Machine for a look at the stories and personalities who were making news in Daily Variety on March 9, 1976.

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Radial Entertainment Shops for Content Libraries as Pluto TV and Paramount Alum Jeff Shultz Takes Over as CEO

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 16:07:42 +0000

On today’s episode, Radial Entertainment CEO Jeff Shultz explains why he’s shopping for content libraries now that the Pluto TV and Paramount alum has taken the reins of the TV and film venture backed by OakTree Capital Management. Radial was formed last year through OakTree’s combination of FilmRise and Shout Studios.

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Daily Variety -- Hollywood Gets Ready for Oscars; Hanging With 'Baywatch' Hopefuls

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 19:52:53 +0000

In today’s episode, we’ll hear from Variety’s Marc Malkin on how the somber mood in Hollywood and geopolitical uncertainty will affect this year’s Oscar week celebrations leading up to the Academy Awards on March 15. And Ethan Shanfeld paints a colorful picture of all that he observed while attending a “Baywatch” open casting call.

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Daily Variety – Keke Palmer Makes a Career Turn as ‘I Love Boosters’ Heads for SXSW

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 17:57:29 +0000

On today’s episode, in our Cover Story segment, Variety’s Selome Hailu details her profile of actor Keke Palmer, star of “I Love Boosters,” the Boots Riley comedy that is set to open the SXSW festival next week.

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Daily Variety -- It’s HBO: What Will the Paramount-Warner Bros. Merger Mean for TV’s Premium Pioneer?

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 20:08:47 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Michael Schneider examines the questions swirling around HBO as the storied brand braces for Paramount’s takeover of Warner Bros. Discovery. Casey Bloys and Co. are waiting on word of how the premium TV pioneer will operate under Paramount Skydance, if the $110 billion acquisition is completed.

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Daily Variety -- 'Scream 7' Turns Up the Box Office Volume; Business and Politics Collide in Warner Bros. Discovery Saga

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 19:30:15 +0000

On today’s episode, in our Box Office segment, Variety’s Rebecca Rubin breaks down the weekend that roared with the opening of Paramount’s “Scream 7.” And Reilly Steel, associate professor at Columbia Law School, discusses how the fight between Netflix and Paramount Skydance over Warner Bros. Discovery reflects the collision of troubling business, legal and political trends.

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How the Creator Economy Has Changed Marketing and 'Democratized the Launch of Consumer Products'

Sat, 28 Feb 2026 00:55:47 +0000

On today’s episode, Bill O’Dowd, founder and CEO of Dolphin Entertainment, offers a deep dive into the art and science of the creator economy. The leader of the parent company of PR heavyweights 42West and Shore Fire Media explains how the heat among social media personalities is changing everything about marketing and advertising, and how it has bulldozed traditional barriers to launching consumer products.

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Daily Variety -- 'We're a Sprint': Actor Awards EP Jon Brockett on Producing the Live Kudocast for Netflix

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 19:31:23 +0000

On today’s episode, we’ll hear from Jon Brockett, executive producer and showrunner of Sunday’s Actor Awards. The kudocast veteran discusses producing a live event without strict time limit considerations for Netflix, showcasing host Kristen Bell, paying tribute to Harrison Ford’s long career and invoking vintage Hollywood glamour.

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