Strictly Business
Industry leaders converse about business deals, strategy and the future of media and entertainment.
Episodes
Amazon Courts Creators to Build Businesses and Scale the Attention Economy for Brands
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 economy and 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
Daily Variety -- Documentary Filmmaker Rory Kennedy Sounds the Alarm About Air Safety With 'Freefall: A Reckoning for Boeing'
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.
Daily Variety -- How ‘Dateline’ Became a Multiplatform Content Dynamo for NBC News
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
Daily Variety -- Ryan Murphy Talks Norman Lear, Emmy-Nominated Showrunners Weigh in on TV’s Future
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 ar
Daily Variety -- How Chris Carter Got His Second Shot at ‘The X-Files: I Want to Believe’ Film
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.
Daily Variety -- Leslie Iwerks Trains Her Lens on ‘Disney Worldbuilding’ With James Cameron, Jon Favreau, Kevin Feige, Peter Docter and More
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.
Retired Athletes Blake Griffin and Ryan Kalil Return to Sports as Team Owners in YouTube Docuseries 'We Are Osos'
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
Will Paramount Bail on the Golden State? Dodger Great Orel Hershiser on Broadcasting, Baseball and Faith
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 informati
Daily Variety -- Will Paramount Bail on the Golden State? Dodger Great Orel Hershiser on Broadcasting, Baseball and Faith
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 informati
Daily Variety -- Summer Box Office Will Surpass the $4 Billion Benchmark
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 p
Daily Variety -- Summer Box Office Will Surpass the $4 Billion Benchmark
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 p
NBCUniversal Media Group Chief Matt Strauss on Growing Peacock, Testing Membership Rewards and Becoming a Daily Habit With Users
On today's episode of Variety'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.
Daily Variety -- Fear, Loathing and Endless Potential: AI4 Conference Takes Stock of Transformative Technologies
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/
Daily Variety – It’s Tick-Tock Time for Paramount-Warner Bros. Discovery Merger as Judge Sets March Trial Date
On today’s episode,Variety's Todd Spangler offers an update on where things stand for Paramount-Warner Bros. Discovery merger process now 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 El
Daily Variety -- National Comedy Center's Journey Gunderson on Preserving Humor as History
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
Daily Variety – It’s a Brand New Day for the Box Office Thanks to ‘Spider-Man’ and ‘The Odyssey’
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.
Music Fans Shrug Off Ticket Price Hikes to Keep Summer Concert Business Humming
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.
Daily Variety -- California Film Commissioner Colleen Bell Talks State Tax Incentive Battles, Hollywood’s Future and More
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
Madison Wells Balances Art, Commerce and Audience Demands to Back Movies, TV Shows, Live Events
On today’s episode, Madison Wells chief Gigi Pritzker and newly appointed president and chief content officer Dan Steinman discuss how the well-positioned indie navigates the ups and downs of a transforming marketplace. “We have to be smarter,” Pritzker says. “Even inexpensive movies are expensive,” says Steinman.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See
Daily Variety -- Cover Story: Travis Scott Ascends to Culture Moguldom Through Music, Movies, Retail, Business and More
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 in
Daily Variety -- Reba McEntire Revels in 50 Years of Making Music and Season 3 of NBC’s ‘Happy’s Place’
On today's episode, country music superstar Reba McEntire discusses celebrating her golden anniversary in music with a series of EP releases that pair a newly recorded song with several vintage tunes. McEntire also weighs in on how she’s navigated a turbulent TV marketplace to get her NBC comedy “Happy’s Place” to a third season.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy infor
Daily Variety -- 'Scary Movie' Gets a Second Wind in PVOD With Extended Director's Cut
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.
Daily Variety – Box Office: Christopher Nolan Gets Moviegoers Out in Force for the Trojan Horse
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 om
Jon Miller on Media Merger Mayhem: ‘Globalization is Winning’
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 f
Daily Variety -- Cover Story: What’s Fueling the Box Office Rebound and How Can Hollywood Keep it Going?
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.
Daily Variety – How NBC’s ‘Must See TV’ Branding Campaign of the 1990s Changed America’s Viewing Habits
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 multi
Daily Variety -- What’s Next for Paramount-Warner Bros. as State AGs Sue; Columbia University’s Eric Talley on Why the Case May Lead to Merger Concessions
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/l
Daily Variety -- Box Office: ‘Moana’ is Disney Misstep; ‘Young Washington’ Director Jon Erwin on Making Indies Work at the Multiplexes
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/list
Politics Puts a Spotlight on the Production Exodus From California and Other U.S. Filming Hubs
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.
Daily Variety –- James Corden Reunites 'The Late Late Show' Team for Fox's 'After Hours' World Cup Show
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 could
Daily Variety -- Netflix, Disney+ and Amazon Fight in France Over Streaming Quotas and Theatrical Windowing Rules
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.
Daily Variety -- What’s Driving Microsoft’s Massive Overhaul of Xbox?
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.
Daily Variety – Box Office: ‘Minions and Monsters’ Delivers Tepid U.S. Debut in a Muted July 4th Weekend; Why Comcast’s Sky is Buying ITV
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 omn
Strictly Business From Cannes Lions: Leaders From NBCUniversal, IBM, State Farm, Autodesk and Coinbase on Consumer Trends, AI and Reaching Audiences Amid Fragmentation
Top leaders from NBCUniversal, IBM, State Farm, Autodesk and Coinbase talk shop and compare notes on marketing, tech and consumer trends in conversations with Todd Spangler, Variety's business editor. Recorded June 22-25 in the Canva Creative Cabana space at the Cannes Lions international festival of creativity.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener fo
Daily Variety -- How David Fincher and Zach Cregger Secretly Shaped Netflix’s Game-TV Hybrid 'Unhinged'
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.
Daily Variety -- So Long, LeBron! What the Lakers Shakeup Means for the NBA and for L.A.'s Sports Star Power
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.
Daily Variety – CNBC Chief KC Sullivan on Transforming the Linear TV Business in a Global World: ‘We’re Very Much on Offense’
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 pr
Daily Variety -- Box Office: ‘Supergirl’ Stumbles, ‘Toy Story 5’ Flexes and ‘Michael’ Hits a Milestone; Why Comcast is Splitting NBCUniversal and Sky From Cable
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 pr
'Strictly Business' Live From Cannes Lions: AWS, Deloitte and Sony Pictures Execs on Getting Your 'Hands Dirty' With Tech and Data to Solve Hard Problems
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
Daily Variety -- 'Abbott Elementary' Exec Producer Justin Halpern Juggles TV Series and a New Novel
On today’s episode, writer and showrunner Justin Halpern speaks with Variety’s Michael Schneider about the road to writing his novel “Get Lost,” which will be released next month. Halpern updates Schneider on a few TV development projects, including the status of high school memoir “I Suck at Girls” at Netflix and the upcoming season of ABC’s “A
Strictly Business Cannes Lions Edition: Fox's Rob Wade and Billy Parks Hope to Bring Scale to the Creator Economy
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 med
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
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.See omnystudio.com/lis
Daily Variety –- ‘Toy Story 5’ Opens Big and So Does Cannes Lions
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 t
Ken Ziffren Tackles a New Spin on Fin-Syn and Reflects on Six Decades of Hollywood Lawyering
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 con
Daily Variety -- Owen Gleiberman Unpacks Why We Love ‘Toy Story’: ‘Some of the Greatest Movies Ever Made About Childhood’
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 p
Daily Variety -- Latino Donor Collaborative Makes the Business Case Why Hollywood Loses Money by Ignoring Latinos
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 infor
Daily Variety -- Hollywood's Problems Intersect With California Politics Like Never Before as Showbiz Rallies Around a Federal Production Tax Incentive
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.
Daily Variety -- 'Disclosure Day' Adds to Summer Box Office Momentum; Why Fox is Buying Roku
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.
Mike Hopkins on Prime Video’s Evolution, the Bundling Boom, How MGM Changed Amazon, the Future of Bond and No Regrets on 'Melania'
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 bu
Daily Variety – David Harbour Finds a Port in the Storm in ‘DTF St. Louis’; ‘Toy Story 5’ Red Carpet Rundown
On today’s episode, in our Cover Story segment, Variety’s Daniel D’Addario details his time with David Harbour as the actor tries to navigate that trickiest of transitions – moving on from a career-making role after five seasons as Jim Hopper on Netflix’s “Stranger Things.” And Marc Malkin brings us a Red Carpet Rundown with Taylor Swift and Joan Cusack fr
Daily Variety -- How NBC Created the Broadcast Network Paradigm and Other Firsts; Andy Cohen Reflects on 20 Years of 'Real Housewives'
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 pro
Daily Variety -- 'GTA 6,' Xbox Exclusives, Paramount Revs Game Studio and More From Summer Game Fest
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.
Daily Variety -- 'Scary Movie' Tops Box Office as 'Masters of the Universe' Stumbles
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 f
Credit Risks: Top S&P Global Ratings Analyst Breaks Down the Paramount-Warner Bros. Discovery Merger
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 Sky
Daily Variety -- '60 Minutes’ Explodes With Firings, a Hiring and Questions About the Venerable News Program’s Future
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.
Daily Variety -- All3Media’s Jane Turton Talks Banijay Merger and What She’s Learned From David Zaslav, John Malone and Jeff Zucker
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 conver
Daily Variety -- 'Backrooms' and 'Obsession' Rattle the Box Office as Gen Z Embraces its Own Horror Helmers
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
Daily Variety -- 'The U.S. Against the World' Director-Producer Rand Getlin Documents the Road to the World Cup
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 omnys
Daily Variety -- Karen Bass, Spencer Pratt and the Brawl in the L.A. Mayoral Race
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. See omn
Daily Variety -- 'The Mandalorian and Grogu' and a Magnificent 'Obsession' Drive Holiday Box Office
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 omnystud
When Cultures Collide: What Big Brands Need to Reach Gen Z and Gen Alpha Consumers
On today’s episode of Variety’s “Strictly Business” podcast, Havas Play executives Andrea Isaac and Juliet Tierney share insights on reaching Gen Z and Gen Alpha consumers – and the differences that distinguish them. The senior leaders of the branded content and experiential marketing unit of Havas discuss the sea change in marketing priorities and the need for b
Daily Variety – Box Office: ‘Michael’ Returns to No. 1 as Exhibitors Brace for ‘The Mandalorian and Grogu’ and the Start of Summer Blockbuster Season
On today’s episode, in our Box Office segment, Variety’s Rebecca Rubin explains why Lionsgate’s “Michael” made a surprise return to No. 1 in a weekend that marks the calm before the start of summer blockbuster season next week with Disney’s “The Mandalorian and Grogu” opening over Memorial Day weekend.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy informati
Did OpenAI Kill What Disney's 'Super App' Needs Most?
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 inno
Daily Variety – Upfronts 2026: What We Learned From TV's Biggest Platforms; Crafting the Music of ‘Heated Rivalry’
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
Daily Variety -- ‘Survivor’ at 50: What Makes CBS’ Reality Franchise So Durable?
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 informatio
Daily Variety – Tech Talk, Streaming, Sports and Reboots Dominate Upfronts; NBCUniversal’s Liz Jenkins on Risk-Taking Amid Disruption
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 deli
Daily Variety – Upfronts 2026: Disney’s Rita Ferro Details the Mouse House’s Cross-Platform Push, Embracing Live and Connecting Grammys, Super Bowl and the Oscars for the Biggest Brands
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 t
Inside the Unprecedented Growth of Hasbro's Magic: The Gathering and Trading Card Game's High-Stakes Pro Competition
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.
Daily Variety -- Kate del Castillo Brings 'La Reina del Sur' Back to Telemundo for Season 4: 'Teresa Mendoza Will be Touching Hell,' She Promises
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 imm
Daily Variety – Cover Story: How Javier Bardem Tackles Cannes – and Hollywood -- on His Own Terms
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
Daily Variety -- How Gen Z and Gen Alpha are Saving Moviegoing; 10 Questions With Colin Hanks and Ryan Reynolds
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
Daily Variety – Box Office: ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ Steps Lively and Repeats
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
Why Hollywood is Increasingly Leaning on Gaming Platforms to Promote Movies
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/listen
Daily Variety – Happy Anniversary, Television! Looking Ahead to Variety’s TV Week Events and Looking Back at the Medium's Launch at the 1939 New York World’s Fair
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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy inf
Daily Variety -- Cover Story: Kacey Musgraves Embraces Her Silly Side With 'Middle of Nowhere' Album and Tour
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/listene
Daily Variety – Aaron Tracy Explores the Life of the Author Who Excited Children’s Imaginations in ‘The Secret World of Roald Dahl’
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 omnystu
Daily Variety – Box Office: Record Opening for ‘Michael’ Thrills Exhibitors and Fans; Surprise Madonna Appearance Lights Up West Hollywood
On today’s episode, in our Box Office segment, Variety’s Rebecca Rubin breaks down the record-setting opening for Lionsgate’s musical biopic “Michael.” And Marc Malkin brings us a Just for Variety report on Madonna’s visit to the Abbey in West Hollywood.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
NBCUniversal's Pearlena Igbokwe on the Return of Pilots, the Value of Co-Viewing and Threading Shows Through Broadcast and Streaming Platforms
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
Daily Variety – Tina Knowles on Dressing Destiny’s Child in the Early Days; Ashley Graham on Fighting for Plus Size Women and Starring in ‘Chicago’
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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Daily Variety -- Why the Warner Bros.-Paramount Deal 'Symbolizes Big Changes in the Industry'
On today’s episode, Erik Gordon, professor at the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business, breaks down the Warner Bros. Discovery sale saga as the company’s shareholders prepare to vote on the sale to Paramount Skydance.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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