Daily Variety

What’s Driving Microsoft’s Massive Overhaul of Xbox?

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 22:31:00 +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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Box Office: ‘Minions and Monsters’ Delivers Tepid Debut in a Muted July 4th Weekend; Why Comcast’s Sky is Buying ITV

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:13:00 +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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How David Fincher and Zach Cregger Secretly Shaped Netflix’s Game-TV Hybrid ‘Unhinged’

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 18:20:00 +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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So Long, LeBron! What the Lakers Shakeup Means for the NBA and for L.A.'s Sports Star Power

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 18:58:00 +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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CNBC Chief KC Sullivan on Transforming the Linear TV Business in a Global World: ‘We’re Very Much on Offense’

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 22:37:00 +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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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 18:11:00 +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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'Abbott Elementary' Exec Producer Justin Halpern Juggles Series and a New Novel

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 01:57:00 +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." Halpern also 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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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 16:28:00 +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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Box Office: 'Toy Story 5' Opens Big and So Does Cannes Lions

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 22:00:00 +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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Owen Gleiberman Unpacks Why We Love ‘Toy Story’: ‘Some of the Greatest Movies Ever Made About Childhood’

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 16:20:00 +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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Latino Donor Collaborative Makes the Business Case Why Hollywood Loses Money by Ignoring Latinos

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 20:44:00 +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 latest 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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Hollywood's Problems Intersect With California Politics Like Never Before as Showbiz Rallies Around a Federal Production Tax Incentive

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 21:12:00 +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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'Disclosure Day' Adds to Box Office Momentum; Why Fox is Buying Roku

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 19:26:00 +0000

On today’s episode of "Daily Variety" podcast, 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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'60 Minutes’ Explodes With Firings, a Hiring and Questions About the Venerable News Program’s Future

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 14:53:00 +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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'Backrooms' and 'Obsession' Rattle the Box Office as Gen Z Embraces its Own Horror Helmers

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 17:13:00 +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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'The U.S. Against the World' Director-Producer Rand Getlin Documents the Road to the World Cup

Thu, 28 May 2026 19:30:00 +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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Karen Bass, Spencer Pratt and the Brawl in the L.A. Mayoral Race

Wed, 27 May 2026 17:37:00 +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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'The Mandalorian and Grogu' and a Magnificent 'Obsession' Drive Holiday Box Office

Wed, 27 May 2026 00:41:00 +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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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 17:58:00 +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 with Disney’s “The Mandalorian and Grogu” opening over Memorial Day weekend.

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

Thu, 14 May 2026 18:28:00 +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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‘Survivor’ at 50: What Makes CBS’ Reality Franchise So Durable?

Wed, 13 May 2026 20:38:00 +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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Tech Talk, Streaming, Sports and Reboots Dominate Upfronts; NBCUniversal’s Liz Jenkins on Risk-Taking Amid Disruption

Tue, 12 May 2026 18:40:00 +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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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 19:17:00 +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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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 19:17:00 +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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Cover Story: How Javier Bardem Tackles Cannes – and Hollywood -- on His Own Terms

Wed, 06 May 2026 19:45:00 +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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How Gen Z and Gen Alpha are Saving Moviegoing; 10 Questions With Colin Hanks and Ryan Reynolds

Tue, 05 May 2026 17:20:00 +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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Box Office: ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ Steps Lively and Repeats for Disney

Mon, 04 May 2026 17:50:00 +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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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 16:17:00 +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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Cover Story: Kacey Musgraves Embraces Her Silly Side With 'Middle of Nowhere' Album and Tour

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 16:57:00 +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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Aaron Tracy Explores the Life of the Author Who Excited Children’s Imaginations With ‘The Secret World of Roald Dahl’

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 18:23:00 +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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Box Office: Record Opening for ‘Michael’ Thrills Exhibitors and Fans; Surprise Madonna Appearance Lights Up West Hollywood

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 17:22:00 +0000

On today’s episode, in our Box Office segment, Variety’s Rebecca Rubin breaks down the recording-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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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 17:58:00 +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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Why the Warner Bros.-Paramount Deal 'Symbolizes Big Changes in the Industry'

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 16:11:00 +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 deal with Paramount Skydance.

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

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 18:49:00 +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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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 16:34:00 +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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Hollywood Marshals Opposition to Paramount-Warner Bros. Discovery Merger. Will It Matter?; ‘Lorne’ Measures the Man Behind ‘SNL'

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 17:51:00 +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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What Did the Writers Guild of America Achieve in its Four-Year Contract With Studios and Streamers?

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 16:57:00 +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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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 19:38:00 +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 gathering 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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Box Office: 'Super Mario Galaxy Movie' Holds Strong for Universal; John Waters Cruises to His 80th Birthday

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 17:33:00 +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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Cannes Film Festival Slate Prizes European Auteurs; Patricia Glaser Defends Casey Wasserman and More From Variety’s Power of Law

Sat, 11 Apr 2026 22:36:00 +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 the embattled Casey Wasserman.

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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 15:39:00 +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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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 18:16:00 +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 reports 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 admits.

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

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 21:36:00 +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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Box Office: ‘Project Hail Mary’ Holds on Tight to No. 1; Why Producers of ‘The Bold and the Beautiful’ are Launching a Streaming App

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 22:09:00 +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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OpenAI Shuts Down Sora, Disney Dodges Video AI Bullet, For Now

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 18:26:00 +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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Star Trek is Adrift on TV: Why ‘Starfleet Academy’ is Folding After Two Seasons

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 18:42:00 +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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‘The Comeback’: Lisa Kudrow Brings Valerie Cherish Back for a Final Adventure on HBO

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 17:42:00 +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 does its final lap on HBO.

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‘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 16:32:00 +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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Cover Story: Happy at Last, Miley Cyrus Reclaims the Legacy of ‘Hannah Montana’

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 17:33:00 +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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Zendaya Dresses to Impress; Cult-Fave Series 'On Cinema at the Cinema' Hits the Road

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 17:38:00 +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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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 18:57:00 +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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Box Office: 'Reminders of Him' Expands the Hoover-verse; 'Hoppers' Hangs Tough

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 18:09:00 +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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Hollywood Labor Negotiations: What to Expect as the WGA Heads to the Bargaining Table

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 17:50:00 +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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COVER STORY: Oscars Rewind With Nicole Kidman as She Revisits Her 2003 Best Actress Win for 'The Hours'

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 18:47:00 +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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The Collab Behind Variety's 10 Creators to Watch List; Why Bars are Hosting More TV Watch Parties

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 18:13:00 +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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'Hoppers' Tops the Box Office While 'The Bride' Gets Jilted

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 20:53:00 +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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Hollywood Gets Ready for Oscars; Hanging With 'Baywatch' Hopefuls

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 21:58:00 +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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Keke Palmer Makes a Career Turn as ‘I Love Boosters’ Heads for SXSW

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 18:15:00 +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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It’s HBO: What Will the Paramount-Warner Bros. Merger Mean for TV’s Premium Pioneer?

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 20:19:00 +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 awaiting word on how the premium TV pioneer will operate under Paramount Skydance, if the $110 billion acquisition is completed.

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'Scream 7' Turns Up Volume at Box Office; Business and Politics Collide in WB Discovery Saga

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 19:38:00 +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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'We're a Sprint': Actor Awards EP Jon Brockett on Producing the Live Kudocast for Netflix

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 19:29:00 +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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Who is Josh D'Amaro and What's Next for Disney?

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 18:55:00 +0000

On today’s episode, in our Cover Story segment, Variety’s Brent Lang takes a long look at Disney’s incoming CEO Josh D’Amaro and the challenges that await the parks and experiences veteran as he takes the helm of the Mouse House next month.

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Showrunner Bill Lawrence on the Relaunch of 'Scrubs' and Rise of 'Rooster'

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 19:27:00 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Michael Schneider speaks to “Ted Lasso” and “Shrinking” exec producer Bill Lawrence on the relaunch of “Scrubs” on ABC and Hulu. Lawrence explains how he’s busier than ever in his career – after surviving “a couple of five- and eight-year gaps when I couldn’t get anything going on TV.”

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Box Office Monday: 'GOAT' Unmoors 'Wuthering Heights' From No. 1; Revisiting Overlooked Black TV Gems

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 18:38:00 +0000

On today’s episode, in our Monday Box Office segment, Variety’s Rebecca Rubin explains why Sony Pictures’ family film “G.O.A.T” topped the chart and how Elvis in Imax can still pack ‘em in. And Aramide Tinubu discusses some of the overlooked gems on her list of the best Black-led TV series of the past 10 years.

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'Kpop Demon Hunters' Unite: Stars and Singers Gather to Celebrate the Movie’s Success and Significance

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 17:59:00 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Jazz Tangcay explains how she pulled off the “Kpop Demon Hunters” summit held Feb. 17 at the Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood in tandem with the publication of Variety’s standalone special issue on the animated musical smash. Includes highlights from the screening and panel that brought together the six actors and singers -- EJAE, Ji-young Yoo, Audrey Nuna, Arden Cho, May Hong and Rei Ami -- for the first time to discuss how the Netflix-Sony Pictures hit has touched their hearts and changed their careers.

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What’s Next for Warner Bros. Discovery’s M&A Love Triangle?; Remembering Robert Duvall’s ‘Symphonic’ Talent

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 20:31:00 +0000

On today’s episode, we’ll hear from Variety’s Todd Spangler on the latest developments in the three-way M&A love triangle between Warner Bros. Discovery, Netflix and Paramount Skydance. And Owen Gleiberman pays tribute to the “symphonic” talent of Robert Duvall.

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‘Wuthering Heights’ Extends Warner Bros.' ‘Fabulous’ Box Office Streak

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 18:07:00 +0000

On today's episode, Variety's Rebecca Rubin breaks down a solid weekend at the box office with a diverse mix of new titles, led by Emerald Fennell's buzzy "Wuthering Heights" from Warner Bros. and animated family film "GOAT" from Sony Pictures.

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What's Happening in Hollywood's Contract Talks; Remembering James Van Der Beek

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 20:16:00 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Gene Maddaus offers the latest on SAG-AFTRA’s contract negotiations with Hollywood’s largest studios and streamers. And Emily Longeretta pays tribute to James Van Der Beek, an actor who came to help define his generation of TV and movies.

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'The Simpsons' Celebrates 800 Episodes and Takes Aim at 1,000: 'It's a Gift'

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 18:17:00 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Michael Schneider discusses “The Simpsons” reaching another astounding industry milestone, Episode No. 800. He details his reporting with producers and longtime cast members on how the beloved Fox animated series defies the gravity of its years to stay strong in Season 37.

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France Adds Above the Line Costs to Production Tax Incentives; Variety Artisans Awards at Santa Barbara Film Festival

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 20:38:00 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Elsa Keslassy explains the significance of the big move by France to expand its national production tax incentive and why it matters to the U.S. And Jazz Tangcay reports on Variety’s Artisans Awards that were handed out at the Santa Barbara Film Festival.

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Super Bowl Stomps Domestic Box Office, 'Zootopia 2' Rules Global Turnstiles; Ted Sarandos Has Confidence in WBD Deal

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 19:51:00 +0000

On today’s episode, in our Box Office segment, Variety’s Rebecca Rubin breaks down a typically weak Super Bowl weekend at the turnstiles in the U.S., and she examines “Zootopia 2’s” staying power at the international box office. Marc Malkin presses Netflix’s Ted Sarandos about the fate of the Warner Bros. Discovery deal at the Directors Guild Awards.

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COVER STORY: 'Love Story' Revisits JFK Jr., Carolyn Bessette and the Kennedy Mystique; Top D&D Game Masters Meet

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 01:32:00 +0000

On today’s episode, in our Cover Story segment, Variety’s Daniel D’Addario details his behnd-the- scenes reporting on “Love Story,” the latest installment of the FX franchise, this time focusing on the romance between JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette. And Jennifer Maas explains how she pulled off a meeting of great minds of D&D -- Brennan Lee Mulligan and Matthew Mercer -- for a video that is burning up Variety’s YouTube page.

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It's Heigh-Ho Time After Regime Change at Disney; Netflix's Ted Sarandos Survives Grilling in Senate

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 00:14:00 +0000

On today’s episode, host Cynthia Littleton unpacks the big leadership transition news out of Disney and what it means for Josh D’Amaro and Dana Walden. Plus, highlights from Ted Sarandos’ politically charged grilling in the Senate as the Netflix co-CEO fights for the Warner Bros. Discovery acquisition

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Box Office Monday: 'Melania' Surprises, 'Iron Lung' Soars; Disney's 'Healthy Competition' as CEO Transition Looms

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 19:42:00 +0000

On today episode, in our Box Office segment, Variety's Rebecca Rubin breaks down the weekend numbers with “Melania” surprising, “Send Help” leading and “Iron Lung” setting a new bar for DIY creator films at the multiplexes.

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Why NBC is Reviving Pilot Season; Breaking Down Luminate's Year-End Streaming Originals Report

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 18:22:00 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Joe Otterson explains the recent burst of pilot orders at NBC and why the network is returning to a TV tradition. And Luminate’s Andrew Wallenstein gives a preview of Friday’s “Strictly Business” podcast episode, which goes deep on Luminate’s just-released Year-End Film and TV Report tracking viewership of streaming originals across all major platforms.

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Voices of Sundance With Natalie Portman, Gregg Araki, Daniel Kwan, Judd Apatow and More

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 19:27:00 +0000

On today’s episode, Natalie Portman, Rob Lowe, Daniel Kwan, Kiernan Shipka, Judd Apatow, Salman Rushdie, Gregg Araki and more sound off on industry issues in interviews conducted at Variety’s Sundance Film Festival studio, presented by Audible. Music legends Kim Gordon and Kathleen Hanna also talk about the music business then and now in connection with Tamra Davis’ Sundance doc “The Best Summer.”

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The Sundance Flu and a Message About Today's Episode

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 16:48:00 +0000

A message from "Daily Variety" host Cynthia Littleton about the episode for Monday, January 26.

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Investors Fret But Netflix Fights for Warner Bros. Discovery Deal

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 21:39:00 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Todd Spangler breaks down Netflix’s Q4 2025 earnings report and what the numbers reveal about the streamer’s business momentum. And he reads between the lines on what co-CEOs Ted Sarandos and Greg Peters had to say about the status of Netflix’s $83 billion deal to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery.

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On Oscar Nominations Eve, the Politics and the Receipts for 2025's Top Contenders

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 19:56:00 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Rebecca Rubin and Clayton Davis break down the art, the science and the bottom line of Academy Award nominations and how box office receipts influence film awards season.

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Sundance Film Festival to Pay Tribute to Robert Redford at its Last Waltz in Park City

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 19:13:00 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Brent Lang, Peter Debruge and Owen Gleiberman discuss getting ready as film pros for the Sundance Film Festival, which begins Jan. 22. These Sundance veterans give us the long-term view of the festival and its profound impact on the film industry as the annual gathering in Park City, Utah prepares for a big move to Boulder, Colo., in 2027.

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BTS, Bruno Mars, Rush and the 2026 Outlook for Music Tours; Revisiting How Martin Luther King Jr. Emerged as a National Media Figure

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 19:15:00 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Jem Aswad analyzes the prospects for BTS’ massive world tour plans and other big treks in music. And in advance of the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday, host Cynthia Littleton looks back at how King emerged as a media figure on the national stage, as covered by Variety.

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AI, Health Care and Streaming Residuals: Hollywood Union Contract Negotiations Come into Focus

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 18:39:00 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Gene Maddaus breaks down the issues and the schedule for Hollywood union contract negotiations that are set to begin Feb. 9 when SAG-AFTRA sits down with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers. AI, health care benefits and streaming residuals will surely be on the agenda.

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Paramount Takes the Fight for Warner Bros. Discovery to Court; WWE Takes a Victory Lap With Netflix

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 19:10:00 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Todd Spangler explains the latest wrinkle in Paramount Skydance’s pursuit of Warner Bros. Discovery with its lawsuit filed in Delaware. And Joe Otterson takes the pulse of WWE viewership and fandom one year after the storied grappling franchise moved to Netflix.

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'Primate,' 'No Other Choice' Help January Box Office; What CES and the Golden Globes Had in Common

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 19:53:00 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety's Rebecca Rubin breaks down the weekend box office and encouraging starts for Paramount’s “Primate” and Neon’s “No Other Choice.” And host Cynthia Littleton offers reporter's notebook observations after a week that started with the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas and ended with the Golden Globe Awards swirl in Hollywood.

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COVER STORY: Jodie Foster on Fame, Family and Pursuing Her Artistic Passions

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 20:46:00 +0000

On today’s episode, in our Cover Story segment, Variety’s Daniel D’Addario discusses his revelatory profile of Jodie Foster. And Marc Malkin has a Red Carpet Rundown from the Golden Globes' Golden Eve celebration of Sarah Jessica Parker and Helen Mirren.

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How Misinformation Has Complicated L.A.'s Recovery From 2025's Firestorm

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 19:59:00 +0000

On today’s episode, as Los Angeles marks the one-year anniversary of the devastating Eaton and Pacific Palisades fires, NBC News correspondent Jacob Soboroff details the cathartic process of writing his new book, “Firestorm: The Great Los Angeles Fires and America’s New Age of Disaster.”

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Why Female Cinematographers are Poised for Triumph This Awards Season

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 17:04:00 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Jazz Tangcay explains why the 98th annual Academy Awards may well mark a breakthrough moment for female cinematographers.

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2025 Ends With Bountiful Box Office; Industry Predictions for 2026

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 19:33:00 +0000

On today’s episode, we’ll break down the holiday box office with Variety’s Rebecca Rubin. It was a bountiful end of the year for exhibitors. And Todd Spangler does some crystal ball gazing with Variety’s predictions for 2026.

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Why YouTube's Deal for Oscar TV Rights is Neal Mohan's Master Stroke; Connor Storrie on His Big Break in 'Heated Rivalry'

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 20:56:00 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Clayton Davis and Michael Schneider unpack Hollywood’s latest big surprise – the Oscar telecast’s move to YouTube starting in 2029. And Marc Malkin gets the details from "Heated Rivalry" star Connor Storrie about how his big break happened and what he advised his mother about watching the HBO Max hockey drama.

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Inside Variety’s 120th Anniversary Issue: How We Tackled 12 Decades of Hollywood’s Highs and Lows

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 18:59:00 +0000

On today’s episode, we dive into the creation of Variety’s 120th anniversary issue with deputy editor Trish Deitch and design director Ted Keller. The two discuss how we tackled 12 decades of showbiz history – and why the discovery of a long-forgotten photo of Liberace and Michael Jackson sparked joy in the newsroom.

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Happy 120th Birthday, Variety! When Vaudeville, Gramophones, Caruso and Bernhardt Ruled Entertainment

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 19:12:00 +0000

On today’s episode, we go back in time to December 16, 1905, to celebrate Variety's 120th birthday. Showbiz historians David Monod and Peter Rader explain what the entertainment marketplace was like at the time Variety was born.

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Paying Tribute to Rob Reiner’s Legacy on Screen and in California; ‘Hamnet’ Impresses on a Ho-Hum Box Office Weekend

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 21:45:00 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Marc Malkin helps put Rob Reiner’s legacy and impact in Hollywood into perspective. And Rebecca Rubin breaks down the weekend box office as “Zootopia 2” reclaims the No. 1 spot and “Ella McKay” stumbles.

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Sundance 2026 Lineup Blends New Discoveries and Nostalgia; How The Game Awards Blend Kudos and Ballyhoo

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 17:09:00 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Peter Debruge and Matt Donnelly break down the Sundance Film Festival lineup and what to expect at the festival’s nostalgic final outing in Park City, Utah. And Jennifer Maas previews The Game Awards to explain how the event has grown into the Oscars for video games by blending kudos and ballyhoo.

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Cinema United Chief Michael O’Leary on the Threat to Moviegoing Posed by Netflix Buying Warner Bros.: ‘We Cannot Survive Only on Blockbusters’

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 18:56:00 +0000

On today’s episode, Michael O’Leary, president and CEO of Cinema United, discusses the state of moviegoing and the reaction among exhibitors to the Netflix-Warner Bros. Discovery deal. He unpacks why movie theater owners are so worried about Netflix taking the keys to Hollywood’s biggest producer of theatrical films.

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David Ellison Tries to Pry Warner Bros. and HBO From Netflix; ‘Five Nights at Freddy’s 2’ Impresses at Box Office

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 22:13:00 +0000

On today’s episode, Paramount Skydance goes hostile for Warner Bros. Discovery. Will David Ellison bust up WBD’s engagement to Netflix? And Variety's Brent Lang breaks down the weekend box office as “Five Nights at Freddy’s 2” adds another win for video game adaptations on the big screen.

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Unions, Industry Groups Assemble to Fight Netflix-Warner Bros. Deal; Red Sea Film Festival and Saudi Arabia’s Changing Landscape

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 21:58:00 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Gene Maddaus discusses the opposition in the entertainment industry that has assembled to fight Netflix’s proposed acquisition of Warner Bros. and HBO. And Alex Ritman reports on the scene at the Red Sea Film Festival in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

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Exploring How Spirituality and People of Faith are Portrayed in Pop Culture; Richard Gere on his Dalai Lama Doc ‘Wisdom of Happiness’

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 17:21:00 +0000

On today’s episode, we hear from Brooke Zaugg, executive director of Faith & Media Initiative, on the coalition’s work to influence portrayals of spirituality and people of faith in media and pop culture. And Variety’s Marc Malkin talks with Richard Gere about his new documentary on the Dalai Lama, “Wisdom of Happiness.”

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Variety's Hitmakers Parade: Sabrina Carpenter, Chappell Roan and More; Will Warner Bros. Discovery Try for Round 3 of Bids?

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 16:59:00 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Jem Aswad details our annual Hitmakers issue, featuring cover star Sabrina Carpenter. He details the year-long effort that goes into assembling the survey of the year’s top 25 tunes. And Todd Spangler gives us an update on the state of bidding for Warner Bros. Discovery.

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Microdramas Go Mainstream with TelevisaUnivision and JCPenney; How Record Store Day Fosters Fandom and Community

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 16:25:00 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety’s Brian Steinberg details a deal between TelevisaUnivision and JCPenney to produce microdramas and microdrama branded content. And Chris Willman discusses the unique pleasures of standing in line with fellow music lovers on Record Store Day, Black Friday Edition.

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‘Zootopia 2’ Muscle Sets Box Office Up for a Strong Finish; Jeremy Allen White Turns His Attention Back to ‘The Bear’

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 18:03:00 +0000

On today’s episode, Variety's Rebecca Rubin unpacks the Thanksgiving feast at the box office with “Zootopia 2” and “Wicked: For Good” lighting up screens around the world. And Marc Malkin sits down with Jeremy Allen White as the actor turns his attention back to filming “The Bear.”

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