Strictly Business

On today’s episode, John Morayniss, co-founder and CEO of Blink49 Studios, breaks down the building blocks of his latest content startup venture, which has reached the five-year mark. The alumnus of Alliance Atlantis and Entertainment One explains how Blink49’s focus is pure-play content, from traditional TV and film to vertical media to branded content. The company is hitting a stride with the recent launch of two very different original series, drama "YAGA" airing on AMC+, and "The Golden Life," a celebrity reality show for E!.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chronicle Media chiefs Aaron Sisto and Scott Greenberg detail how they've built an audience simulation platform to help brands and studios reach audiences and "acquire them as fans," as Sisto explains.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s episode, Variety’s Matt Donnelly and Michael Schneider break down the surprising upheaval at the top of Netflix’s content operations. Peter Rice is in, Bela Bajaria is out and all of Hollywood is speculating about what comes next for the streaming giant.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s episode, leaders in digital-first content discuss the factors that are funneling viewership, fan engagement and brand deals into the creator economy. Participants in the panel recorded Sept. 17 at Variety’s annual Entertainment and Technology Summit,are Aaron Doades, senior VP of product management for Comscore; Zach Miller, president of JesserCo.; and Jarret Myer, CEO of Uproxx Studios; and Shaun Newsum, CEO of Culture Genesis.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s episode, Jen Neal, executive VP of live events and specials for NBC, explains how the network manages a busy slate of eventsand why this audience is indeed special to advertisers. She also hints at what’s in store for NBC’s 100th anniversary live special on Dec. 10.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s episode,Variety’s Angelique Jackson and Michael Schneider detail the vibes that they picked up in covering Day 1 of the new Skydance. Jackson and Schneider discuss the scene and the mood at the news conference that David Ellison and Ynon Kreiz held Oct. 6 on the Paramount Pictures lot to mark the closing of the hard-fought Warner Bros. Discovery acquisition.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s episode, Variety’s Matt Donnelly details his Variety cover story on Ben Affleck as the multihyphenate returns to the spotlight as an industry player. Affleck also breaks down the working model of Artists Equity, the production company he runs with Matt Damon that has taken a United Artists-like vow to share the wealth with creative talent.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stars and creatives behind buzzy shows coming to Broadway – including “A Few Good Men,” “Evita” and “Dolly: A True Original Musical” – gathered Oct. 5 to talk shop and compare notes about working on the Main Stem at Variety’s annual The Business of Broadway breakfast, presented by City National Bank. “Pete Hegseth makes Jessep look like a folk singer,” Whitford says of the rock-ribbed Marine he plays in the upcoming revival of “A Few Good Men.”

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s episode, Jason Klarman, chief digital officer for Fox News Media, discusses the channel’s milestone 30th anniversary that arrives on Oct. 7. The veteran marketer and programmer who was part of the channel's launch team talks about the brand’s enduring “challenger” mentality, how it's dealing with upstart competitors and how it’s courting younger viewers via streaming and social platforms.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dan Houser, co-founder and former head writer of Rockstar Games, details his vision for building a new kind of media company rooted in transmedia storytelling across games, TV, film and audio fiction. Houser is the mastermind of the original "GTA" and "Red Dead Redemption" gaming franchises.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today's episode, as part of Variety's annual Business of Broadway celebration, veteran stage producer Sue Frost discusses her work in bringing original musicals to life, including such acclaimed Broadway productions as "Memphis" and "Come From Away." Frost, who is also chair-elect of the Broadway League, explains why her Junkyard Dogs Productions banner is devoted exclusively to launching original tuners, including "The Heart," which opens Oct. 8 at the Roundabout Theatre. "It's a crazy business model, but somebody's got to do it," Frost says. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today's episode, Andrew Wallenstein, chief insights officer of Variety's data and analytics sibling Luminate, and analyst Tyler Aquilina discuss how long gaps between seasons take a toll on original streaming series viewership. The two break down the findings in the latest Luminate report, "Release Strategies for Music & TV."

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s “Strictly Business Daily,” Variety’s Matt Donnelly, Gene Maddaus and Todd Spangler break down the news of Paramount’s settlement of the antitrust lawsuit filed by California and 11 other states. The agreement puts Paramount on a glide path to close its hard-fought acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery acquisition by October.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s episode, host Cynthia Littleton and Corbin Bolies, Variety's AI beat reporter, talk about where the AI conversation is going in Hollywood after a day of discussions at Variety’s annual Entertainment and Technology Summit, held Sept. 17 in Beverly Hills. Nancy Hall, U.S. CEO of WPP Media, and Tom McKenna, global head of media, operations and business development for Audible, explain how they work together to position the subscription audio platform in key pop culture circles.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s special episode, recorded Sept. 7 at the Lumiere Summit in Saint Paul de Vence, France, luminaries from the entertainment industry -- including George Clooney, Donna Langley, Thierry Frémaux, Michael Barker, Lynette Howell Taylor, Maxime Saada, Michael O’Leary and more -- discuss the central themes of the gathering, hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s “Strictly Business Daily,” Maria Taylor, host of NBC’s “Football Night in America” talks about how she’s adjusted to big increase in her on-air duties with NBC’s addition of NBA and WNBA packages. Taylor also discusses her prep for the start of NFL season and what she’s looking forward to at the LA 28 Summer Games.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today's episode,Variety's Gene Maddaus interviews Rob Bonta, California's crusading Attorney General who is doggedly pursuing the antitrust case toblock the Paramount Skydance-Warner Bros. Discovery merger. Bonta details his background growing up in a family of social justice activists, attending Yale on a soccer scholarship and other formative experiences that shaped his worldview. "I believe in justice. I believe in following the rules," Bonta says.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s episode, Bogdan Nesvit, co-CEO and co-founder of Holywater Tech, walks through the explosive growth of the company’s My Drama and My Muse apps and details what he sees as the key to making vertical media more mainstream. “Studios and creators are knocking on our doors right now,” Nesvit says.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today's episode, host Cynthia Littleton,Variety's co-Editor in Chief, brings the curtain down on the "Daily Variety" podcast after 13 months and more than 200 episodes. Starting Sept. 8, this show will be rebranded "Strictly Business Daily" and feature a stronger emphasis on business analysis, data and insights. We'll also go deep on emerging markets, including the creator economy, vertical media and AI.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today's episode,Variety's Michael Schneider speaks with the pillars of "Big Brother" as the U.S. rendition of the franchise hits its milestone 1,000th episode. Chen Moonves remembers the first time she saw herself referred to as the "Chen Bot." And showrunners Allison Grodner and Rich Meehan reflect on the "crazy social experiment" that has become a hallmark of CBS' summer schedule.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s episode, host Cynthia Littleton details the plan to streamline Variety’s business podcast offerings under the “Strictly Business” brand. And we pay tribute to a titan of music and pop culture, Dolly Parton, and to Shelley Fabares, the “Coach” and “Donna Reed Show” star who helped define the image of young America in the late 1950s and ‘60s.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today's episode, Matt Sandler, Amazon's general manager of creator services, and Angie More, Amazon's head of creator ad partnerships, explain why Amazon is making a push into the creator economyand how they're working with some of the boldest names in the sector. The goal is to use the digital behemoth's considerable resources to build businesses that last and to scale creator content ad buying options for the largest marketers. "We're not looking to buy a show," Sandler says. "For us it's about, what business do you want to build?"

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today's episode, Variety's Marlow Stern speaks with documentary filmmaker Rory Kennedy about her latest film, "Freefall: A Reckoning for Boeing."She sees real urgency around the company's failures and lack of accountability for the deaths of more than 300 people in devastating 737 Max plane crashes in 2018 and 2019.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s episode, “Dateline” leaders Liz Cole and Paul Ryan discuss the ever-expanding footprint of the NBC News newsmagazine that has become a ubiquitous presence in media and pop culture. “The audience knows what to expect from us. They’re going to get storytelling. They know very reliably that we’re taking them on a journey to justice,” Ryan says.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s episode, highlights from Variety’s annual Showrunners Breakfast include heartfelt remarks from Ryan Murphy on how he was inspired by Norman Lear and “All in the Family" as he received Variety's Norman Lear Creative Conscience Award. And five Emmy-nominated showrunners discuss television then and now as they offer advice to next-generation creatives. The participants are Ashley Nicole Black (“Shrinking”), Debora Cahn (“The Diplomat”), Dan Harmon (“Rick and Morty”), Jeff Luini (“Welcome to Wrexham”) and Jonathan Tropper (“Your Friends and Neighbors”).

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s episode, Chris Carter of “The X-Files” fame explains to Variety’s Michael Schneider how he got the chance to do a director’s cut of his 2008 “The X-Files: I Want to Believe” feature film. The new cut debuted Aug. 14 on Hulu and Disney+ outside the U.S.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s episode, documentarian Leslie Iwerks dives into the world of “Disney Worldbuilding,”a study of how creative visions are brought to life as IRL experiences at Disney parks and other locations.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today's episode, Luminate's Andrew Wallenstein speaks with retired athletes Blake Griffin and Ryan Kalil. Since moving on from their playing days in NBA and NFL, the two have headed the  production company Mortal Media. And now, they're adding a few more jobs to their resumes: co-owners of a Mexican-league football team, and co-stars of the unscripted series "We Are Osos" that bows Aug. 3 on YouTube.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today's episode, Variety's Todd Spangler analyzes the latest moves in Paramount Skydance's quest to close its deal to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery for $110 billion. And Dodger great Orel Hershiser talks baseball, broadcasting, business and faith as he prepares to receive his Hollywood Walk of Fame star on Aug. 13 for his work as a sportscaster.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today's episode, Variety's Todd Spangler analyzes the latest moves in Paramount Skydance's quest to close its deal to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery for $110 billion. And Dodger great Orel Hershiser talks baseball, broadcasting, business and faith as he prepares to receive his Hollywood Walk of Fame star on Aug. 13 for his work as a sportscaster.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today's episode, in our Box Office segment, Variety's Rebecca Rubin reports that the good news keeps on coming for the movie biz as "Spider Man: Brand New Day" soars in weekend two and "The Odyssey"becomes Christopher Nolan's highest-grossing film. Most important, the summer tally to date has already reached the $4 billion benchmark that was the norm pre-COVID.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today's episode, in our Box Office segment, Variety's Rebecca Rubin reports that the good news keeps on coming for the movie biz as "Spider Man: Brand New Day" soars in weekend two and "The Odyssey"becomes Christopher Nolan's highest-grossing film. Most important, the summer tally to date has already reached the $4 billion benchmark that was the norm pre-COVID.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today's episode ofVariety's "Strictly Business," Matt Strauss, chairman of NBCUniversal Media Group, details the evolution of the Peacock streamer and his view of the "the great re-bundling"that is underway for streaming media.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s episode, Variety’s Corbin Bolies reports from Las Vegas where he is covering the AI4 conference with a slew of top leaders and true believers. The excitement around generative AI is still as hot as the temperature in Sin City, but the polarizing effect of the technology is evident as well, Bolies reports.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s episode,Variety's Todd Spangler offers an update on where things stand for Paramount-Warner Bros. Discovery merger processnow that a judge has set a March trial start date for the antitrust case brought by 12 state attorneys general and the Writers Guild of America. “I think he feels like he’s been misunderstood,” Spangler says of Paramount Skydance CEO David Ellison.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s episode, Journey Gunderson, executive director of the National Comedy Center in Jamestown, N.Y. – Lucille Ball’s hometown -- explains why it’s important to have an institution devoted to the study of comedy. Jamestown will be abuzz with laughs as the center hosts the annual Lucille Ball Comedy Festival Aug. 7-9 headlined by Jerry Seinfeld, Bert Kreischer and Seth Meyers.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s episode, Variety’s box office expert Rebecca Rubin breaks down an astounding weekend at global turnstiles with the debut of Sony Pictures’ “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” and weekend three of Universal Pictures’ “The Odyssey.”

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s episode, Madison Wells chief Gigi Pritzker and newly appointed president and chief content officer Dan Steinmandiscuss 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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.”

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today's episode, country music superstar Reba McEntire discusses celebrating her golden anniversary in musicwith 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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Top leaders from NBCUniversal, IBM, State Farm, Autodesk and Coinbase talk shopand 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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 Netflixand the upcoming season of ABC’s “Abbott Elementary,” on which he is an EP.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s episode, Apple content chief Eddy Cue and producer Jerry Bruckheimerspeak 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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 festivalgets off to a busy – and muggy – start on the Côte d'Azur.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s episode, in our Cover Story segment, Variety’s Daniel D’Addario details his time with David Harbouras 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 Swiftand Joan Cusack from Disney’s “Toy Story 5” premiere.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s episode, in our Box Office segment, Variety’s Rebecca Rubin unpacks the eye-popping stats delivered byA24’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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 Bassis 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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 prioritiesand 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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 weekendthat marks the calm before the start of summer blockbuster season next week with Disney’s “The Mandalorian and Grogu” opening over Memorial Day weekend.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.”

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 Fairin 1939, 87 years ago today.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s episode, in our Box Office segment, Variety’s Rebecca Rubin breaks downthe 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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.