Iac, the Barry Diller-owned company that controls The Daily Beast, has landed a strategic partnership with former Disney executive Ben Sherwood and Hearst veteran Joanna Coles to define the digital publication’s next chapter in a struggling media climate.
Effective immediately, Sherwood will serve as publisher and CEO and Coles as chief creative and content officer. As strategic partners, both will share a substantial interest in the company but specific terms of the partnership were not disclosed.
“These are tough times for digital journalism, but the combined experience, expertise and energy of Ben and Joanna have made me an optimist about their ability to make The Beast an enduring and successful enterprise,” said Barry Diller, who is Iac’s chairman and senior executive.
“Timing is everything, and the current media hellstorm feels like the ideal moment to jump back into journalism,” said Sherwood, who formerly served as co-chairman of...
Effective immediately, Sherwood will serve as publisher and CEO and Coles as chief creative and content officer. As strategic partners, both will share a substantial interest in the company but specific terms of the partnership were not disclosed.
“These are tough times for digital journalism, but the combined experience, expertise and energy of Ben and Joanna have made me an optimist about their ability to make The Beast an enduring and successful enterprise,” said Barry Diller, who is Iac’s chairman and senior executive.
“Timing is everything, and the current media hellstorm feels like the ideal moment to jump back into journalism,” said Sherwood, who formerly served as co-chairman of...
- 4/15/2024
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
A pair of high-profile media veterans are taking charge at The Daily Beast.
Iac says that it has formed a “strategic partnership” in the publication with Ben Sherwood, the former president of Disney’s TV group (and the former president of ABC News) as well as Joanna Coles, the former chief content officer for Hearst and editor-in-chief of Cosmopolitan.
Sherwood will be The Daily Beast‘s CEO and publisher, with Coles serving as its chief content and creative officer. In a statement, Coles said the new team would be “bringing The Beast back to its rebel roots and will build on its beloved DNA to make it even beastier.
“Our fearless investigative team will break even more stories on the end of democracy,” she added. “And obviously our Chief Fruit and Vegetable Correspondent is moving to Montecito and will be on 24/7 stand-by for the launch of the American Riviera Orchard.
Iac says that it has formed a “strategic partnership” in the publication with Ben Sherwood, the former president of Disney’s TV group (and the former president of ABC News) as well as Joanna Coles, the former chief content officer for Hearst and editor-in-chief of Cosmopolitan.
Sherwood will be The Daily Beast‘s CEO and publisher, with Coles serving as its chief content and creative officer. In a statement, Coles said the new team would be “bringing The Beast back to its rebel roots and will build on its beloved DNA to make it even beastier.
“Our fearless investigative team will break even more stories on the end of democracy,” she added. “And obviously our Chief Fruit and Vegetable Correspondent is moving to Montecito and will be on 24/7 stand-by for the launch of the American Riviera Orchard.
- 4/15/2024
- by Alex Weprin
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Katy Perry recently announced her exit from American Idol after judging the show’s contestants for seven seasons. Perry’s announcement came as a surprise to her fellow judges, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie. One rumor suggests that ABC is planning to overhaul the show after Perry’s departure by firing Bryan and Richie and replacing them with a new trio. The rumor also has it that the Firework artist was shown the door after her recent rude remarks on contestants.
Katy Perry in the Roar music video
The trio began judging the show ever since it moved to ABC in 2018, with Ryan Seacrest returning to host the show. Bryan and Richie are also reportedly not happy with Seacrest, who has been allegedly supporting the idea of a new trio of judges.
Katy Perry’s American Idol Exit Worries Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie Lionel Richie, Katy Perry, and Luke...
Katy Perry in the Roar music video
The trio began judging the show ever since it moved to ABC in 2018, with Ryan Seacrest returning to host the show. Bryan and Richie are also reportedly not happy with Seacrest, who has been allegedly supporting the idea of a new trio of judges.
Katy Perry’s American Idol Exit Worries Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie Lionel Richie, Katy Perry, and Luke...
- 3/4/2024
- by Hashim Asraff
- FandomWire
Over its past 21 seasons, American Idol has had several famous judges including Simon Cowell, Jennifer Lopez, and Mariah Carey. But for the new generation fans of the show, Katy Perry is one of the show’s most iconic judges. She is the only female musician who came close to Simon Cowell’s whopping $36 million salary on the show. Perry was offered $25 million when ABC took up the show from Fox and rebooted it with a new judging panel.
Simon Cowell in American Idol
Katy Perry’s massive American Idol salary becomes notable once again, especially since the Fireworks singer revealed that she was leaving the show after its current 22nd season. Perry revealed that she will be focusing on her music career after exiting her judging gig.
Not Jennifer Lopez, Katy Perry Received The Largest Paycheck After Simon Cowell Not Jennifer Lopez or Mariah Carey, Katy Perry is the highest-paid...
Simon Cowell in American Idol
Katy Perry’s massive American Idol salary becomes notable once again, especially since the Fireworks singer revealed that she was leaving the show after its current 22nd season. Perry revealed that she will be focusing on her music career after exiting her judging gig.
Not Jennifer Lopez, Katy Perry Received The Largest Paycheck After Simon Cowell Not Jennifer Lopez or Mariah Carey, Katy Perry is the highest-paid...
- 2/19/2024
- by Hashim Asraff
- FandomWire
Mojo, the youth sports technology company founded by former Disney TV chief Ben Sherwood, has been acquired by the youth sports software firm TeamSnap.
Mojo was “inspired by kind of the Disney mantra of wanting to surprise and delight families exceed their expectations and most of all, help them make memories to last a lifetime,” Sherwood tells The Hollywood Reporter in an interview.
Terms of the deal weren’t disclosed, but Sherwood — who will be a board member of TeamSnap — tells THR that he hopes to leverage his connections in the media space to continue growing the business.
“I think that with my background in media and technology, my relationships with the Walt Disney Company and across media, I think that part of what’s exciting when you get to the kind of scale of TeamSnap where they have more than four million monthly active users, you start looking at...
Mojo was “inspired by kind of the Disney mantra of wanting to surprise and delight families exceed their expectations and most of all, help them make memories to last a lifetime,” Sherwood tells The Hollywood Reporter in an interview.
Terms of the deal weren’t disclosed, but Sherwood — who will be a board member of TeamSnap — tells THR that he hopes to leverage his connections in the media space to continue growing the business.
“I think that with my background in media and technology, my relationships with the Walt Disney Company and across media, I think that part of what’s exciting when you get to the kind of scale of TeamSnap where they have more than four million monthly active users, you start looking at...
- 12/15/2023
- by Alex Weprin
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Wheel of Fortune fans are getting ready to say goodbye to Pat Sajak. The beloved host stayed with the series for over 40 years, but now, Ryan Seacrest will prepare to take over after the 41st season. So, how much money will Ryan Seacrest earn as the Wheel of Fortune host? Here’s what we think.
How much will Ryan Seacrest earn as the ‘Wheel of Fortune’ host?
Ryan Seacrest is no stranger to hosting TV shows. He currently hosts ABC’s American Idol, and he’s slated to take over for Pat Sajak on Wheel of Fortune after season 41. So, how much will Ryan Seacrest get paid as the new Wheel of Fortune host?
Seacrest hasn’t revealed his salary, but we’re willing to bet he’ll earn around $15 million to host Wheel of Fortune.
Sajak reportedly earned around $15 million per year to host Wheel of Fortune in 2016, so...
How much will Ryan Seacrest earn as the ‘Wheel of Fortune’ host?
Ryan Seacrest is no stranger to hosting TV shows. He currently hosts ABC’s American Idol, and he’s slated to take over for Pat Sajak on Wheel of Fortune after season 41. So, how much will Ryan Seacrest get paid as the new Wheel of Fortune host?
Seacrest hasn’t revealed his salary, but we’re willing to bet he’ll earn around $15 million to host Wheel of Fortune.
Sajak reportedly earned around $15 million per year to host Wheel of Fortune in 2016, so...
- 6/27/2023
- by Lauren Weiler
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
One of the most influential and alluring jobs in journalism just opened. Now the company trying to fill the position is waiting to see if anyone really wants it.
Warner Bros. Discovery is expected to move deliberately rather than quickly in its search for a new CEO for CNN. Executives are telling staffers and TV agents that it will likely take a few months to fill the role that Chris Licht held for one turbulent year. Licht, the TV news veteran and “Late Show With Stephen Colbert” showrunner, was ousted last week after spearheading a series of programming moves and talent decisions that kept headlines about CNN circulating more often than anything else produced by the newsroom. Licht’s final error was taking part in a profile The Atlantic published June 2 — 15,000 words detailing a “Meltdown at CNN.” Numerous statements from Licht in the story and his questionable judgment in allowing...
Warner Bros. Discovery is expected to move deliberately rather than quickly in its search for a new CEO for CNN. Executives are telling staffers and TV agents that it will likely take a few months to fill the role that Chris Licht held for one turbulent year. Licht, the TV news veteran and “Late Show With Stephen Colbert” showrunner, was ousted last week after spearheading a series of programming moves and talent decisions that kept headlines about CNN circulating more often than anything else produced by the newsroom. Licht’s final error was taking part in a profile The Atlantic published June 2 — 15,000 words detailing a “Meltdown at CNN.” Numerous statements from Licht in the story and his questionable judgment in allowing...
- 6/14/2023
- by Brian Steinberg
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Sofia Vergara’s Latin World Entertainment has upped Tatiana Castro to VP of Content & Partnerships, Deadline has learned.
Castro was previously a Development and Partnerships Executive at the company founded by the 4x Primetime Emmy nominee and Luis Balaguer.
“Tatiana has been instrumental in tracking and acquiring IP, her hard work and passion can be felt in every area of our company,” said Shares Kate Presutti, EVP of creative development at Latin World. “We’re very excited to have her step into this new role with us.”
Castro has been at the company for over three years, having joined from UTA. She also spent time under the tutelage of ex-Disney Exec Ben Sherwood and Spotlight producer Michael Sugar at Sugar23.
Latin World Entertainment (Lwe) is a full-service, diversified entertainment and media company with a specialty in client management, production, and licensing. Lwe has a business partnership with Walmart among many other major brands.
Castro was previously a Development and Partnerships Executive at the company founded by the 4x Primetime Emmy nominee and Luis Balaguer.
“Tatiana has been instrumental in tracking and acquiring IP, her hard work and passion can be felt in every area of our company,” said Shares Kate Presutti, EVP of creative development at Latin World. “We’re very excited to have her step into this new role with us.”
Castro has been at the company for over three years, having joined from UTA. She also spent time under the tutelage of ex-Disney Exec Ben Sherwood and Spotlight producer Michael Sugar at Sugar23.
Latin World Entertainment (Lwe) is a full-service, diversified entertainment and media company with a specialty in client management, production, and licensing. Lwe has a business partnership with Walmart among many other major brands.
- 6/2/2023
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
The anchors of Fox Business Network have long delivered the latest business headlines. Now some may be getting ready to debate them, too.
Fox Business is preparing to launch a new discussion program that aims to emulate some of the biggest programing hits in recent years on its sibling, Fox News Channel, where so-called “roundtable” shows have fast become a staple of its schedule. The shows can serve to develop personalities who find themselves leading their own hours within a few years, as has been the case for Greg Gutfeld, who helped launch the late-afternoon program “The Five” and now also leads a late-night program at 11 p.m.
“We have had a ton of success on Fox News side with shows like ‘Outnumbered’ and ‘The Five,’” says Lauren Petterson, the president of Fox Business Network, in an interview, adding: “We want to try and take that format and replicate it on the Fox Business Network,...
Fox Business is preparing to launch a new discussion program that aims to emulate some of the biggest programing hits in recent years on its sibling, Fox News Channel, where so-called “roundtable” shows have fast become a staple of its schedule. The shows can serve to develop personalities who find themselves leading their own hours within a few years, as has been the case for Greg Gutfeld, who helped launch the late-afternoon program “The Five” and now also leads a late-night program at 11 p.m.
“We have had a ton of success on Fox News side with shows like ‘Outnumbered’ and ‘The Five,’” says Lauren Petterson, the president of Fox Business Network, in an interview, adding: “We want to try and take that format and replicate it on the Fox Business Network,...
- 10/17/2022
- by Brian Steinberg
- Variety Film + TV
In a surprising move, Peter Rice has been ousted as head of TV content for Disney and will be replaced by his deputy, Chairman of Walt Disney Television Dana Walden.
Rice and Walden originally came to the Disney through the 21st Century Fox acquisition completed in 2019. His departure is an unexpected shakeup to the Disney hierarchy that comes directly from Disney CEO Bob Chapek; according to The New York Times, his exit is not due to any behavioral issues.
In a statement that pointedly does not acknowledge Rice’s years of service, Disney announced that Walden will become chairman of Disney General Entertainment Content, effective immediately. She now oversees the development and production of more than 300 shows per year across Disney’s various small-screen platforms, which include Disney+, Hulu, FX, ABC and Disney Channel — as well as ABC News.
Rice’s contract, which was renewed last August, ran until the...
Rice and Walden originally came to the Disney through the 21st Century Fox acquisition completed in 2019. His departure is an unexpected shakeup to the Disney hierarchy that comes directly from Disney CEO Bob Chapek; according to The New York Times, his exit is not due to any behavioral issues.
In a statement that pointedly does not acknowledge Rice’s years of service, Disney announced that Walden will become chairman of Disney General Entertainment Content, effective immediately. She now oversees the development and production of more than 300 shows per year across Disney’s various small-screen platforms, which include Disney+, Hulu, FX, ABC and Disney Channel — as well as ABC News.
Rice’s contract, which was renewed last August, ran until the...
- 6/9/2022
- by Brandon Katz
- The Wrap
Click here to read the full article.
In a major executive shake-up, Peter Rice, chairman of Disney’s entertainment and programming, is exiting the company, sources tell The Hollywood Reporter.
Sources say embattled Disney CEO Bob Chapek summoned Rice to his office Monday and relieved the former Fox exec of his duties. The CEO, who took over for Bob Iger last year, is said to have felt that Rice was no longer a fit.
This dismissal took place in a seven-minute meeting Monday evening, according to sources. Chapek told Rice that he was not a fit in “the new Disney culture,” to which Rice said words to the effect that he thought they were in the midst of building the new Disney culture. He asked in what way he did not fit and Chapek responded, “Now is not the time” and dismissed him.
Industry insiders believe Rice was perceived as...
In a major executive shake-up, Peter Rice, chairman of Disney’s entertainment and programming, is exiting the company, sources tell The Hollywood Reporter.
Sources say embattled Disney CEO Bob Chapek summoned Rice to his office Monday and relieved the former Fox exec of his duties. The CEO, who took over for Bob Iger last year, is said to have felt that Rice was no longer a fit.
This dismissal took place in a seven-minute meeting Monday evening, according to sources. Chapek told Rice that he was not a fit in “the new Disney culture,” to which Rice said words to the effect that he thought they were in the midst of building the new Disney culture. He asked in what way he did not fit and Chapek responded, “Now is not the time” and dismissed him.
Industry insiders believe Rice was perceived as...
- 6/9/2022
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The recent procession of top news executives shifting positions at ABC News, MSNBC and CBS News gives many in the close-knit world of TV journalism cause for hand-wringing.
In recent months, NBCUniversal named a new executive, Cesar Conde, to head all its news operations, replacing Andy Lack. Conde in turn named a new president at MSNBC, Rashida Jones. Disney on Wednesday named Kim Godwin, a former executive vice president at CBS News, as the new president of ABC News, replacing outgoing executive James Goldston. More transition is coming to CBS News, where current topper Susan Zirinsky is also seen giving up her duties there in days to come.
That’s one long cavalcade. And it hasn’t necessarily reached its end: Jeff Zucker, president of WarnerMedia’s CNN, has indicated he wants to move on by the end of 2021.
There’s reason for the revolving door in the top news suite.
In recent months, NBCUniversal named a new executive, Cesar Conde, to head all its news operations, replacing Andy Lack. Conde in turn named a new president at MSNBC, Rashida Jones. Disney on Wednesday named Kim Godwin, a former executive vice president at CBS News, as the new president of ABC News, replacing outgoing executive James Goldston. More transition is coming to CBS News, where current topper Susan Zirinsky is also seen giving up her duties there in days to come.
That’s one long cavalcade. And it hasn’t necessarily reached its end: Jeff Zucker, president of WarnerMedia’s CNN, has indicated he wants to move on by the end of 2021.
There’s reason for the revolving door in the top news suite.
- 4/14/2021
- by Brian Steinberg
- Variety Film + TV
Disney’s search for a new leader for ABC News continues weeks after the company unexpectedly disclosed the former president, James Goldston, would leave the post.
Goldston’s last day came at the end of March and the company has yet to hone in on a candidate to replace him, according to four people familiar with parts of the search process. When ABC News heads like David Westin or Ben Sherwood left in years past, Disney identified a successor. That hasn’t been the case in the current matter.
Disney and ABC News declined to make executives available for comment.
The quest for a news leader comes as ABC News is taking up more space in the company’s overall programming mix. The division has begun to generate more hours for primetime, where live news specials and deep dives into colorful stories have found a broader perch, and as Americans...
Goldston’s last day came at the end of March and the company has yet to hone in on a candidate to replace him, according to four people familiar with parts of the search process. When ABC News heads like David Westin or Ben Sherwood left in years past, Disney identified a successor. That hasn’t been the case in the current matter.
Disney and ABC News declined to make executives available for comment.
The quest for a news leader comes as ABC News is taking up more space in the company’s overall programming mix. The division has begun to generate more hours for primetime, where live news specials and deep dives into colorful stories have found a broader perch, and as Americans...
- 4/6/2021
- by Brian Steinberg
- Variety Film + TV
AT&T already a long list of “to-dos” when it comes to WarnerMedia, the big entertainment conglomerate it purchased for $85 billion in 2018. Jeff Zucker’s exit from CNN makes it even longer.
Jeff Zucker’s announcement Thursday that he will exit his role as president of CNN, and, presumably, as head of Turner Sports, by the end of 2021 sets another hurdle before the telecom giant and WarnerMedia CEO Jason Kilar as they strive to broaden consumer use of the streaming-video hub HBO Max and push adoption of 5G technology that will make it all more accessible.
As executives work on those goals, they will need the revenue and profit they derive from traditional but out-of-vogue assets like cable networks and movies, long WarnerMedia’s stock in trade Under Zucker, CNN has thrown off more than $1 billion in annual profit and, in recent weeks, enjoyed a surge of viewership that put it...
Jeff Zucker’s announcement Thursday that he will exit his role as president of CNN, and, presumably, as head of Turner Sports, by the end of 2021 sets another hurdle before the telecom giant and WarnerMedia CEO Jason Kilar as they strive to broaden consumer use of the streaming-video hub HBO Max and push adoption of 5G technology that will make it all more accessible.
As executives work on those goals, they will need the revenue and profit they derive from traditional but out-of-vogue assets like cable networks and movies, long WarnerMedia’s stock in trade Under Zucker, CNN has thrown off more than $1 billion in annual profit and, in recent weeks, enjoyed a surge of viewership that put it...
- 2/4/2021
- by Brian Steinberg
- Variety Film + TV
James Goldston, the president of ABC News, will leave the Walt Disney-backed unit at the end of March, the latest in a recent series of changes among top national news executives.
“It’s a really tough decision,” Goldston said in a memo to staffers. “I’ve loved every day of my 17 years at ABC News, but in recent times I’ve always assumed that after this extraordinary election cycle, which we’ve covered at a full sprint for four years, it would be time for a change. After a great deal of reflection over the last few months, I’m ready for a new adventure.”
ABC News isn’t the industry’s largest division — AT&T’s CNN and Comcast’s NBC News Group are much bigger — but under Goldston’s aegis, the Disney division has punched well above its weight. David Muir has risen to become the nation’s most-watched...
“It’s a really tough decision,” Goldston said in a memo to staffers. “I’ve loved every day of my 17 years at ABC News, but in recent times I’ve always assumed that after this extraordinary election cycle, which we’ve covered at a full sprint for four years, it would be time for a change. After a great deal of reflection over the last few months, I’m ready for a new adventure.”
ABC News isn’t the industry’s largest division — AT&T’s CNN and Comcast’s NBC News Group are much bigger — but under Goldston’s aegis, the Disney division has punched well above its weight. David Muir has risen to become the nation’s most-watched...
- 1/28/2021
- by Brian Steinberg
- Variety Film + TV
In the 1980s and ’90s, for celebrities, politicians, lawyers, activists and many others, an appearance on CNN’s “Larry King Live” was a sign that you’d made it on the national stage.
King, who died Saturday at the age of 87, was remembered as a tough but fair interviewer who had a strong sense of humor and was unfailingly gracious to his guests. His 25-year tenure on CNN, and more recently as a the host of a show for the Ora.TV streaming platform, ensured that King interacted with most of the major newsmakers of his time.
Fellow talk show host Craig Ferguson hailed King as a role model behind the mic. “He taught me so much,” Ferguson wrote on Twitter.
Just heard the awful news about Larry King. He taught me so much. He was a true mensch. He probably even taught me that word.
So long pal, thanks for all the laughs.
King, who died Saturday at the age of 87, was remembered as a tough but fair interviewer who had a strong sense of humor and was unfailingly gracious to his guests. His 25-year tenure on CNN, and more recently as a the host of a show for the Ora.TV streaming platform, ensured that King interacted with most of the major newsmakers of his time.
Fellow talk show host Craig Ferguson hailed King as a role model behind the mic. “He taught me so much,” Ferguson wrote on Twitter.
Just heard the awful news about Larry King. He taught me so much. He was a true mensch. He probably even taught me that word.
So long pal, thanks for all the laughs.
- 1/23/2021
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
Ben Sherwood has unveiled his next venture, almost two years after he stepped down as President of Disney-abc TV Group and co-chairman of Disney Media Networks in March 2019, after Disney’s acquisition of key Fox assets was completed.
While he was rumored for high-profile executive posts at the time of his exit, Sherwood opted to switch gears with a tech startup. Drawing from his experience as an avid parent-coach of two sons for more than a decade, Sherwood started Mojo, an app catering to young athletes and their families. It is set to launch in early 2021.
Sherwood co-founded Mojo with Reed Shaffner, who serves as the venture’s chief operating officer. The two partnered in October 2019 and raised Series A funding in February 2020. The company’s high-profile financial backers include top producer Tom Werner (The Conners), who is a partner in Fenway Sports Group and chairman of Liverpool Fc and the Boston Red Sox,...
While he was rumored for high-profile executive posts at the time of his exit, Sherwood opted to switch gears with a tech startup. Drawing from his experience as an avid parent-coach of two sons for more than a decade, Sherwood started Mojo, an app catering to young athletes and their families. It is set to launch in early 2021.
Sherwood co-founded Mojo with Reed Shaffner, who serves as the venture’s chief operating officer. The two partnered in October 2019 and raised Series A funding in February 2020. The company’s high-profile financial backers include top producer Tom Werner (The Conners), who is a partner in Fenway Sports Group and chairman of Liverpool Fc and the Boston Red Sox,...
- 12/14/2020
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Sara Haines will be returning to “The View” in September as a co-host for Season 24 of the ABC daytime talk show, Variety has learned.
Haines, 42, is no stranger to the Hot Topics table. She served as a “View” co-host for two seasons — from the fall of 2016 through the summer of 2018 — where she offered her takes on the headlines of the day, pop culture and celebrities. Prior to “The View,” Haines had served as a lifestyle anchor for “GMA Weekend.”
A representative at ABC declined to comment.
Haines will fill the seat at the table left by Abby Huntsman, who exited the show in January 2020.
In the last few months, Haines has filled in occasionally on “The View,” which has had its co-hosts – Whoopi Goldberg, Joy Behar, Meghan McCain and Sunny Hostin – engaging in virtual debates from home due to the coronavirus.
Election years have always led to surges in viewership for “The View.
Haines, 42, is no stranger to the Hot Topics table. She served as a “View” co-host for two seasons — from the fall of 2016 through the summer of 2018 — where she offered her takes on the headlines of the day, pop culture and celebrities. Prior to “The View,” Haines had served as a lifestyle anchor for “GMA Weekend.”
A representative at ABC declined to comment.
Haines will fill the seat at the table left by Abby Huntsman, who exited the show in January 2020.
In the last few months, Haines has filled in occasionally on “The View,” which has had its co-hosts – Whoopi Goldberg, Joy Behar, Meghan McCain and Sunny Hostin – engaging in virtual debates from home due to the coronavirus.
Election years have always led to surges in viewership for “The View.
- 8/14/2020
- by Ramin Setoodeh
- Variety Film + TV
The canned episode of “Black-ish” that led to a dispute between Disney and creator Kenya Barris, and Barris eventually decamping for a new deal at Netflix, has been finally made available to watch on Hulu.
Originally scheduled to air in February 2018, the episode titled “Please, Baby, Please” was shelved by the network just days before its scheduled airdate due to concerns about “partisanship,” Barris said at the time. The episode sees Dre (Anthony Anderson) telling his son, Devante, a bedtime story, about the past year (and first year) of Devante’s life, which includes the first year of the Donald Trump presidency, the Charlottesville attacks and NFL players kneeling during the national anthem.
“We were one year post-election and coming to the end of a year that left us, like many Americans, grappling with the state of our country and anxious about its future,” Barris said in a statement on Monday.
Originally scheduled to air in February 2018, the episode titled “Please, Baby, Please” was shelved by the network just days before its scheduled airdate due to concerns about “partisanship,” Barris said at the time. The episode sees Dre (Anthony Anderson) telling his son, Devante, a bedtime story, about the past year (and first year) of Devante’s life, which includes the first year of the Donald Trump presidency, the Charlottesville attacks and NFL players kneeling during the national anthem.
“We were one year post-election and coming to the end of a year that left us, like many Americans, grappling with the state of our country and anxious about its future,” Barris said in a statement on Monday.
- 8/10/2020
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
A top news division talent and business affairs executive is out at ABC News following an investigation that she made racially insensitive remarks. The network also announced plans to restructure her position.
In an email to the staff obtained by Deadline, Peter Rice, the chairman of Walt Disney Television and co-chair of Disney Media Networks, wrote that Barbara Fedida would not be returning to the company after her suspension last month. He wrote that “in light of the overall findings, we have determined that she can no longer serve in a leadership role and will not be returning to ABC News.”
Fedida was senior vice president of talent, editorial strategy and business affairs for the network, and, among other duties, she oversaw newsroom inclusion and was responsible for hiring and developing network anchors and correspondents.
Rice wrote that the investigation “substantiated that Ms. Fedida did make some of the unacceptable...
In an email to the staff obtained by Deadline, Peter Rice, the chairman of Walt Disney Television and co-chair of Disney Media Networks, wrote that Barbara Fedida would not be returning to the company after her suspension last month. He wrote that “in light of the overall findings, we have determined that she can no longer serve in a leadership role and will not be returning to ABC News.”
Fedida was senior vice president of talent, editorial strategy and business affairs for the network, and, among other duties, she oversaw newsroom inclusion and was responsible for hiring and developing network anchors and correspondents.
Rice wrote that the investigation “substantiated that Ms. Fedida did make some of the unacceptable...
- 7/20/2020
- by Ted Johnson
- Deadline Film + TV
ABC News executive Barbara Fedida will not return to the Disney-owned unit following an investigation into allegations of insensitive behavior and her treatment of employees, according to a person familiar with the matter,
Staffers were notified of the matter Monday in a memo from Peter Rice, chairman of Walt Disney Television. “The investigation substantiated that Ms. Fedida did make some of the unacceptable racially insensitive comments attributed to her. It also substantiated that Ms. Fedida managed in a rough manner and, on occasion, used crass and inappropriate language,” Rice said. “Lastly, the investigation found no basis for the claims that Ms. Fedida was the subject of dozens of Hr complaints and that ABC News spent millions of dollars in confidential settlements related to Ms. Fedida, as alleged in some press accounts.”
In June, a report by The Huffington Post, citing interviews with 34 sources, raised allegations of a series of insensitive comments by Fedida,...
Staffers were notified of the matter Monday in a memo from Peter Rice, chairman of Walt Disney Television. “The investigation substantiated that Ms. Fedida did make some of the unacceptable racially insensitive comments attributed to her. It also substantiated that Ms. Fedida managed in a rough manner and, on occasion, used crass and inappropriate language,” Rice said. “Lastly, the investigation found no basis for the claims that Ms. Fedida was the subject of dozens of Hr complaints and that ABC News spent millions of dollars in confidential settlements related to Ms. Fedida, as alleged in some press accounts.”
In June, a report by The Huffington Post, citing interviews with 34 sources, raised allegations of a series of insensitive comments by Fedida,...
- 7/20/2020
- by Brian Steinberg
- Variety Film + TV
Black reporters at ABC News whose names were attached to a 2016 “manifesto” to top management are now “uncomfortable” around their colleagues — because the letter was never approved by all the names attached or sent, TheWrap has learned. The letter, which is dated Aug. 17, 2016, was published on June 13 as part of an investigative piece by Yashar Ali on HuffPost about conduct by now-suspended ABC News talent executive Barbara Fedida that was deemed racist and insensitive. The letter lists the names of 12 reporters, correspondents and anchors at the bottom, including “Good Morning America” co-anchor Robin Roberts, “The View” co-host Sunny Hostin, senior justice correspondent Pierre Thomas, and then-abc News correspondent Kendis Gibson, among others, and was addressed to then-Disney/ABC Television Group president Ben Sherwood, ABC News president James Goldston and ABC News management. Also Read: 'The View' Co-Host Whoopi Goldberg Defends ABC News Exec Barbara Fedida: 'I Don't Think...
- 6/24/2020
- by Jennifer Maas
- The Wrap
ABC News has put a top executive on administrative leave after a HuffPost investigation alleged she had a pattern of making insensitive and racist remarks.
Following publication of the story Saturday morning, ABC announced that Barbara Fedida, senior vice president of talent, editorial strategy and business affairs for the network, has been placed on leave while the claims are investigated.
Among other duties, Fedida oversaw newsroom inclusion and was responsible for hiring and developing network anchors and correspondents. According to Yashar Ali’s report in HuffPost, Fedida’s alleged misconduct has led the network to spend millions of dollars in confidential settlements with former talent and staff. That includes at least one settlement related to allegations of racial discrimination, Ali reported.
A spokesperson for ABC News said, “There are deeply disturbing allegations in this story that we need to investigate, and we have placed Barbara Fedida on administrative leave while...
Following publication of the story Saturday morning, ABC announced that Barbara Fedida, senior vice president of talent, editorial strategy and business affairs for the network, has been placed on leave while the claims are investigated.
Among other duties, Fedida oversaw newsroom inclusion and was responsible for hiring and developing network anchors and correspondents. According to Yashar Ali’s report in HuffPost, Fedida’s alleged misconduct has led the network to spend millions of dollars in confidential settlements with former talent and staff. That includes at least one settlement related to allegations of racial discrimination, Ali reported.
A spokesperson for ABC News said, “There are deeply disturbing allegations in this story that we need to investigate, and we have placed Barbara Fedida on administrative leave while...
- 6/13/2020
- by Ted Johnson
- Deadline Film + TV
ABC News said it placed one of its senior executives on administrative leave after a Huffington Post report detailed alleged complaints about her behavior lodged by staffers to the human-resources department.
Barbara Fedida joined ABC News for a second stint when Ben Sherwood, the former president of the division, brought her aboard in 2011 as senior vice president for talent and business. As part of that role, she had a strong influence in determining who ABC News hired and the career paths of many of the news operation’s journalists and correspondents. She has over the years been seen by staffers as an aide to the unit’s top managers, acting as a lieutenant of sorts to Sherwood and other senior ABC News executives. She currently reports to ABC News President James Goldston.
The Huffington Post report cited interviews with 34 sources over the course of six months, including current and former ABC News staff and talent,...
Barbara Fedida joined ABC News for a second stint when Ben Sherwood, the former president of the division, brought her aboard in 2011 as senior vice president for talent and business. As part of that role, she had a strong influence in determining who ABC News hired and the career paths of many of the news operation’s journalists and correspondents. She has over the years been seen by staffers as an aide to the unit’s top managers, acting as a lieutenant of sorts to Sherwood and other senior ABC News executives. She currently reports to ABC News President James Goldston.
The Huffington Post report cited interviews with 34 sources over the course of six months, including current and former ABC News staff and talent,...
- 6/13/2020
- by Brian Steinberg and Jordan Moreau
- Variety Film + TV
NBC News President Noah Oppenheim has been battling Ronan Farrow in recent and disturbing headlines, but the executive remains the most likely candidate to succeed NBC News and MSNBC Chairman Andy Lack, according to people familiar with the matter.
Lack, who has seen NBC News through one of its most tumultuous eras, has a contract that runs through 2020, according to these people. He could negotiate to remain with NBCUniversal for a subsequent period or stay on in some other capacity, but Oppenheim is widely seen as his successor. NBCU CEO Steve Burke first put forward that notion in January when he told Variety that Oppenheim “is going to end up running NBC News after Andy retires.”
NBCUniversal declined to make executives available for comment. The end date of Lack’s current contract was previously reported by The Los Angeles Times.
The two executives’ stints at NBC News (both have worked...
Lack, who has seen NBC News through one of its most tumultuous eras, has a contract that runs through 2020, according to these people. He could negotiate to remain with NBCUniversal for a subsequent period or stay on in some other capacity, but Oppenheim is widely seen as his successor. NBCU CEO Steve Burke first put forward that notion in January when he told Variety that Oppenheim “is going to end up running NBC News after Andy retires.”
NBCUniversal declined to make executives available for comment. The end date of Lack’s current contract was previously reported by The Los Angeles Times.
The two executives’ stints at NBC News (both have worked...
- 10/14/2019
- by Brian Steinberg
- Variety Film + TV
There’s always a parade of new faces and budding stars at the broadcast networks’ annual upfront presentations. This week in New York, the newcomers include top executives at each of the Big Four networks.
A year of M&A, consolidation, management shake-ups, restructuring and downsizing will be reflected on the stages at the iconic New York venues where ABC, CBS, Fox and NBC will tout their hot prospects for the 2019-20 television season. Even Turner, the cable titan that first barreled into the broadcast networks’ upfront week in 2008, has a new regime calling the shots — and the new moniker of WarnerMedia, following At&T’s acquisition of Time Warner last year.
Veteran upfront attendees might need a scorecard to keep track of the players who have moved to new teams. Dana Walden presided over Fox’s upfront presentation last year, but she’s now Team ABC/Disney. Bob Greenblatt was...
A year of M&A, consolidation, management shake-ups, restructuring and downsizing will be reflected on the stages at the iconic New York venues where ABC, CBS, Fox and NBC will tout their hot prospects for the 2019-20 television season. Even Turner, the cable titan that first barreled into the broadcast networks’ upfront week in 2008, has a new regime calling the shots — and the new moniker of WarnerMedia, following At&T’s acquisition of Time Warner last year.
Veteran upfront attendees might need a scorecard to keep track of the players who have moved to new teams. Dana Walden presided over Fox’s upfront presentation last year, but she’s now Team ABC/Disney. Bob Greenblatt was...
- 5/14/2019
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
When Disney executives visit the Fox lot in Century City, the home of their newly acquired TV and film studios, they’re greeted by a big new banner that says “Welcome to Fox” and doors newly painted with the word “Fox.”
It’s not so much a welcome as a way of marking territory, one Fox insider told TheWrap Friday, three days after Disney closed its $71.3 billion acquisition of 21st Century Fox’s film and TV assets — and two days after it started layoffs that are expected to cost as many as 4,000 Fox employees their jobs.
The insider said the banner and “Fox” logos, which went up Thursday, were a way of reminding Disney that under the new deal, it is renting the Century City property from Fox: “This is still our lot.”
Also Read: Dana Walden Pumps Up New Disney Staff in Memo: 'Overwhelmed By the Excitement' for Future...
It’s not so much a welcome as a way of marking territory, one Fox insider told TheWrap Friday, three days after Disney closed its $71.3 billion acquisition of 21st Century Fox’s film and TV assets — and two days after it started layoffs that are expected to cost as many as 4,000 Fox employees their jobs.
The insider said the banner and “Fox” logos, which went up Thursday, were a way of reminding Disney that under the new deal, it is renting the Century City property from Fox: “This is still our lot.”
Also Read: Dana Walden Pumps Up New Disney Staff in Memo: 'Overwhelmed By the Excitement' for Future...
- 3/23/2019
- by Jennifer Maas, Tony Maglio and Trey Williams
- The Wrap
Dana Walden, the newly-entrenched chairman of ABC Entertainment and Disney Television Studios, attempted to rally her new staff on Friday, amid company-wide layoffs following the close of the Disney-Fox merger.
“I am almost overwhelmed by the excitement I feel for our future,” Walden wrote in an internal memo. “We are now positioned to win, big time, and I am grateful to Bob [Iger] and Peter [Rice] for giving me this opportunity.”
Walden’s memo comes as many Fox employees — mostly on the film side — are being laid off as Disney integrates Fox into its operations. The layoffs have affected a couple of major TV executives — Twentieth Television president Greg Meidel and 20th Century Fox TV Distribution president Mark Kaner.
Also Read: Disney Keeps Key Leaders in Place After Day of Layoffs at Fox
“Please know that we are all here for you and that we too are experiencing both the exhilaration and anxiety that accompany change,...
“I am almost overwhelmed by the excitement I feel for our future,” Walden wrote in an internal memo. “We are now positioned to win, big time, and I am grateful to Bob [Iger] and Peter [Rice] for giving me this opportunity.”
Walden’s memo comes as many Fox employees — mostly on the film side — are being laid off as Disney integrates Fox into its operations. The layoffs have affected a couple of major TV executives — Twentieth Television president Greg Meidel and 20th Century Fox TV Distribution president Mark Kaner.
Also Read: Disney Keeps Key Leaders in Place After Day of Layoffs at Fox
“Please know that we are all here for you and that we too are experiencing both the exhilaration and anxiety that accompany change,...
- 3/22/2019
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
At long last, Disney has completed its $71.3 billion acquisition of 21st Century Fox’s film and TV assets.
With the deal wrapped up, Disney will take over ownership of 20th Century Fox film and TV studio, cable networks FX, Fxx and National Geographic, and certain cable and international television assets. Disney also acquires Fox’s 30 percent stake in Hulu, giving it majority control. The new assets should strengthen Disney’s position as a content behemoth, especially as it launches Disney+ later this year, its own streaming competitor to Netflix.
“This is an extraordinary and historic moment for us–one that will create significant long-term value for our company and our shareholders,” Disney CEO Bob Iger said. “Combining Disney’s and 21st Century Fox’s wealth of creative content and proven talent creates the preeminent global entertainment company, well positioned to lead in an incredibly dynamic and transformative era.”
Meanwhile, what...
With the deal wrapped up, Disney will take over ownership of 20th Century Fox film and TV studio, cable networks FX, Fxx and National Geographic, and certain cable and international television assets. Disney also acquires Fox’s 30 percent stake in Hulu, giving it majority control. The new assets should strengthen Disney’s position as a content behemoth, especially as it launches Disney+ later this year, its own streaming competitor to Netflix.
“This is an extraordinary and historic moment for us–one that will create significant long-term value for our company and our shareholders,” Disney CEO Bob Iger said. “Combining Disney’s and 21st Century Fox’s wealth of creative content and proven talent creates the preeminent global entertainment company, well positioned to lead in an incredibly dynamic and transformative era.”
Meanwhile, what...
- 3/20/2019
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
Kevin Brockman, Evp Global Communications, Disney|ABC Television Group and a 22-year Disney veteran, will depart the company following the close of its pending acquisition of 21st Century Fox. Brockman, whose position will be eliminated in the restructure of the division, has agreed to stay in his role through the transition.
“Kevin is a gifted communications strategist, a proven leader and a great team player who’s had an immeasurable impact during his long tenure with the Company as a key architect of countless communications initiatives that propelled our television business forward,” said Zenia Mucha, Senior Evp and Chief Communications Officer, The Walt Disney Company. “I remain grateful for his incredible expertise, his visionary thinking and his unparalleled ability to build partnerships. He’s been an invaluable colleague and will be missed by everyone who’s had the benefit of his guidance and support.”
Brockman is the latest top-level ABC-Disney...
“Kevin is a gifted communications strategist, a proven leader and a great team player who’s had an immeasurable impact during his long tenure with the Company as a key architect of countless communications initiatives that propelled our television business forward,” said Zenia Mucha, Senior Evp and Chief Communications Officer, The Walt Disney Company. “I remain grateful for his incredible expertise, his visionary thinking and his unparalleled ability to build partnerships. He’s been an invaluable colleague and will be missed by everyone who’s had the benefit of his guidance and support.”
Brockman is the latest top-level ABC-Disney...
- 1/31/2019
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
It’s been an Ok fall for the broadcast networks with a few solid new entries, NBC’s Manifest and New Amsterdam, ABC’s The Conners, CBS’ FBI, Fox’s Last Man Standing and the CW’s Charmed. Besides the two NBC dramas, no other new series probably qualifies as a breakout hit but there were no outright flops either that were quickly pulled or downgraded except for ABC’s Alec Baldwin talk show.
However, the performances of the new and returning series has been largely overshadowed this fall. The broadcast networks are at crossroads following unprecedented corporate upheaval, with none of the executives who were at the top of each network the same time last year in their posts now.
CBS Corp. CEO Les Moonves was ousted following a slew of sexual misconducts allegations, with Showtime’s David Nevins taking programming oversight of CBS and the CW. Bob Greenblatt...
However, the performances of the new and returning series has been largely overshadowed this fall. The broadcast networks are at crossroads following unprecedented corporate upheaval, with none of the executives who were at the top of each network the same time last year in their posts now.
CBS Corp. CEO Les Moonves was ousted following a slew of sexual misconducts allegations, with Showtime’s David Nevins taking programming oversight of CBS and the CW. Bob Greenblatt...
- 1/1/2019
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
In 2018, a TV actor gender pay parity still was being debated, a TV journalist thought blackface could be defended on grounds of “Halloween,” and a TV ad campaign featuring a man known for kneeling to protest deaths of unarmed U.S. citizens triggered a national outbreak of gym sock logo cutting. Also, a network fired its hit sitcom star for behaving like the president, and the CEO of CBS learned what “consensual” most certainly does not mean.
Here are the sordid details:
CSI: Les Moonves
The first Fortune 500 CEO toppled by allegations of sexual misconduct in the #MeToo era, Moonves’ CBS career ended abruptly after a dozen women accused him of various unwanted acts, including forced oral sex. After his ouster in September, the company board announced in December that Moonves will get none of the $120M severance he had expected, citing the findings of its investigation into Moonves, CBS News...
Here are the sordid details:
CSI: Les Moonves
The first Fortune 500 CEO toppled by allegations of sexual misconduct in the #MeToo era, Moonves’ CBS career ended abruptly after a dozen women accused him of various unwanted acts, including forced oral sex. After his ouster in September, the company board announced in December that Moonves will get none of the $120M severance he had expected, citing the findings of its investigation into Moonves, CBS News...
- 12/28/2018
- by Lisa de Moraes
- Deadline Film + TV
Channing Dungey decided to leave ABC Entertainment despite direct appeals from incoming leaders Dana Walden and Peter Rice and a close relationship with Disney CEO Bob Iger, multiple insiders told TheWrap.
Dungey, the president of ABC Entertainment, informed her Disney bosses last week that she did not intend to renew her contract when it came up in early 2019. That led them to announce Friday that Karey Burke, head of original programming for Disney’s Freeform, would replace her.
“She was not pushed. She chose not to renew her deal which expires in February,” one knowledgeable insider told TheWrap. “As soon as she informed them that she wasn’t renewing, they made an immediate change to Karey.”
Also Read: Channing Dungey Exits as ABC Chief, Freeform's Karey Burke to Replace Her
Dungey’s decision to leave despite not having another position elsewhere is a personal disappointment to Iger, who was...
Dungey, the president of ABC Entertainment, informed her Disney bosses last week that she did not intend to renew her contract when it came up in early 2019. That led them to announce Friday that Karey Burke, head of original programming for Disney’s Freeform, would replace her.
“She was not pushed. She chose not to renew her deal which expires in February,” one knowledgeable insider told TheWrap. “As soon as she informed them that she wasn’t renewing, they made an immediate change to Karey.”
Also Read: Channing Dungey Exits as ABC Chief, Freeform's Karey Burke to Replace Her
Dungey’s decision to leave despite not having another position elsewhere is a personal disappointment to Iger, who was...
- 11/19/2018
- by Trey Williams and Sharon Waxman
- The Wrap
Channing Dungey is stepping down as President of ABC Entertainment after less than three years on the job. As usual, Disney has reached within its ranks for a replacement, naming Karey Burke, head of Freeform original programming development, as new ABC Entertainment president.
The move comes ahead of the completion of the 21st Century Fox acquisition by Disney and following the announcement of the Disney-ABC post-merger TV leadership, that includes Fox’s Dana Walden taking oversight of ABC, ABC Studios and Freeform as chairman, Disney Television Studios and ABC Entertainment.
Ever since that leadership structure was announced with Dungey in her previous position reporting to Walden, there had been speculation that Dungey may leave as she had been tipped to be on track for a bigger role after a solid track record as ABC Entertainment president. Her contract was coming up soon, and according to sources, she was offered...
The move comes ahead of the completion of the 21st Century Fox acquisition by Disney and following the announcement of the Disney-ABC post-merger TV leadership, that includes Fox’s Dana Walden taking oversight of ABC, ABC Studios and Freeform as chairman, Disney Television Studios and ABC Entertainment.
Ever since that leadership structure was announced with Dungey in her previous position reporting to Walden, there had been speculation that Dungey may leave as she had been tipped to be on track for a bigger role after a solid track record as ABC Entertainment president. Her contract was coming up soon, and according to sources, she was offered...
- 11/16/2018
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
The Foxes are raiding the Mouse House..
The Walt Disney Co. on Monday announced that the two longtime Fox executives will come aboard to head the media giant’s entertainment-television operations — Rice as chairman of Walt Disney Television, and Walden as his top lieutenant overseeing ABC, Freeform, and most of the new company’s studio units. They will be joined by a flotilla of key Fox execs, including FX’s John Landgraf, National Geographic’s Gary E. Knell, 20th Century Fox Television’s Jonnie Davis and Howard Kurtzman, and Fox 21’s Bert Salke.
The newbies’ arrival heralds a new era at Disney, one in which the company’s lucrative television business will shift from a traditional model focused on linear programming to one built to power forthcoming direct-to-consumer ventures. It also bodes uncertainty for the folks who have spent the last few years running that traditional model.
Disney’s...
The Walt Disney Co. on Monday announced that the two longtime Fox executives will come aboard to head the media giant’s entertainment-television operations — Rice as chairman of Walt Disney Television, and Walden as his top lieutenant overseeing ABC, Freeform, and most of the new company’s studio units. They will be joined by a flotilla of key Fox execs, including FX’s John Landgraf, National Geographic’s Gary E. Knell, 20th Century Fox Television’s Jonnie Davis and Howard Kurtzman, and Fox 21’s Bert Salke.
The newbies’ arrival heralds a new era at Disney, one in which the company’s lucrative television business will shift from a traditional model focused on linear programming to one built to power forthcoming direct-to-consumer ventures. It also bodes uncertainty for the folks who have spent the last few years running that traditional model.
Disney’s...
- 10/9/2018
- by Daniel Holloway
- Variety Film + TV
Disney’s $71.3 billion acquisition of most of the assets for 21st Century Fox is marrying two very distinct brands and two very different corporate cultures. The company, led by chairman and CEO Bob Iger, took the first step in the process today, announcing the top Fox TV executives who will make the move to Disney when the transaction is completed in early 2019.
There had been a lot of anticipation for the deal, which would create mega film and TV studios and cement Disney’s position as world’s top entertainment company. But now that the euphoria over the blockbuster pact is beginning to subside, questions are re-emerging about the practical side of integrating the Fox assets and executives into the Disney portfolio and team. As one observer put it, “the honeymoon is over.”
Some of the highest-profile Fox TV executives are headed to Disney including 21st Century Fox president and...
There had been a lot of anticipation for the deal, which would create mega film and TV studios and cement Disney’s position as world’s top entertainment company. But now that the euphoria over the blockbuster pact is beginning to subside, questions are re-emerging about the practical side of integrating the Fox assets and executives into the Disney portfolio and team. As one observer put it, “the honeymoon is over.”
Some of the highest-profile Fox TV executives are headed to Disney including 21st Century Fox president and...
- 10/8/2018
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
When the Walt Disney Company unveiled much of its new TV networks organizational structure Monday, it didn’t come with many surprises: As expected, Peter Rice will assume oversight as chairman of Walt Disney Television and co-chair of Disney Media Networks once the company closes its acquisition of 21st Century Fox.
Under Rice, as previously reported, Dana Walden has been named chairman of Disney TV Studios and ABC Entertainment, while John Landgraf will continue to oversee FX Networks and FX Productions as chairman. National Geographic Partners chairman Gary Knell, Disney Channels Worldwide president/COO Gary Marsh and ABC News president James Goldston will also answer to Rice.
With long-time 21st Century Fox execs taking over key Disney TV oversight, Burbank’s about to feel a lot more like Century City. And that’s clearly Disney CEO Bob Iger’s goal: “The strength of 21st Century Fox’s first-class management talent...
Under Rice, as previously reported, Dana Walden has been named chairman of Disney TV Studios and ABC Entertainment, while John Landgraf will continue to oversee FX Networks and FX Productions as chairman. National Geographic Partners chairman Gary Knell, Disney Channels Worldwide president/COO Gary Marsh and ABC News president James Goldston will also answer to Rice.
With long-time 21st Century Fox execs taking over key Disney TV oversight, Burbank’s about to feel a lot more like Century City. And that’s clearly Disney CEO Bob Iger’s goal: “The strength of 21st Century Fox’s first-class management talent...
- 10/8/2018
- by Michael Schneider
- Indiewire
Rice will head Disney’s media networks group once the 21st Century Fox deal goes through.
Disney has confirmed the executive line-up for its post-Fox deal media networks division, with Fox executives Peter Rice and Dana Walden set for top posts and Disney’s Ben Sherwood to leave after the deal closes.
If Disney’s acquisition of most of the assets of 21st Century Fox goes through as expected, Rice, currently president of 21st Century Fox and chairman and CEO of Fox Networks Group, will become chairman of Walt Disney Television and co-chair of Disney Media Networks, reporting directly...
Disney has confirmed the executive line-up for its post-Fox deal media networks division, with Fox executives Peter Rice and Dana Walden set for top posts and Disney’s Ben Sherwood to leave after the deal closes.
If Disney’s acquisition of most of the assets of 21st Century Fox goes through as expected, Rice, currently president of 21st Century Fox and chairman and CEO of Fox Networks Group, will become chairman of Walt Disney Television and co-chair of Disney Media Networks, reporting directly...
- 10/8/2018
- by John Hazelton
- ScreenDaily
Rice will head Disney’s media networks group once the 21st Century Fox deal goes through.
Disney has confirmed the executive line-up for its post-Fox deal media networks division, with Fox executives Peter Rice and Dana Walden set for top posts and Disney’s Ben Sherwood to leave after the deal closes.
If Disney’s acquisition of most of the assets of 21st Century Fox goes through as expected, Rice, currently president of 21st Century Fox and chairman and CEO of Fox Networks Group, will become chairman of Walt Disney Television and co-chair of Disney Media Networks, reporting directly...
Disney has confirmed the executive line-up for its post-Fox deal media networks division, with Fox executives Peter Rice and Dana Walden set for top posts and Disney’s Ben Sherwood to leave after the deal closes.
If Disney’s acquisition of most of the assets of 21st Century Fox goes through as expected, Rice, currently president of 21st Century Fox and chairman and CEO of Fox Networks Group, will become chairman of Walt Disney Television and co-chair of Disney Media Networks, reporting directly...
- 10/8/2018
- by John Hazelton
- ScreenDaily
Peter Rice and Dana Walden will lead Disney-ABC’s TV networks and studio after the Fox acquisition closes. Under them, John Landgraf and Gary E. Knell will serve as chairmen of FX and Nat Geo Partners.
Ben Sherwood, the co-chair of Disney Media Networks and the president of the Disney-ABC Television Group, will remain in his role until the Fox deal is finished.
The 21st Century Fox executives selected to move over to the high-level Disney roles are not unexpected.
Also Read: Nick Cannon Is Developing a Weekly Late-Night Show at Fox
Rice is currently president of 21st Century Fox and chairman and CEO of Fox Networks Group. Walden currently oversees Fox’s broadcast network and its studio with Gary Newman. Knell is currently president and CEO of the National Geographic Society; Landgraf is CEO for the FX networks and its studio.
Walden, Landgraf and Knell will...
Ben Sherwood, the co-chair of Disney Media Networks and the president of the Disney-ABC Television Group, will remain in his role until the Fox deal is finished.
The 21st Century Fox executives selected to move over to the high-level Disney roles are not unexpected.
Also Read: Nick Cannon Is Developing a Weekly Late-Night Show at Fox
Rice is currently president of 21st Century Fox and chairman and CEO of Fox Networks Group. Walden currently oversees Fox’s broadcast network and its studio with Gary Newman. Knell is currently president and CEO of the National Geographic Society; Landgraf is CEO for the FX networks and its studio.
Walden, Landgraf and Knell will...
- 10/8/2018
- by Tony Maglio
- The Wrap
Top 21st Century Fox television executives Peter Rice, Dana Walden, John Landgraf, and Gary E. Knell are officially headed to the Magic Kingdom.
The Walt Disney Co. announced that Rice and Walden will come aboard to lead the conglomerate’s non-sports television operations. Rice has been named chairman, Walt Disney Television and co-chair, Disney Media Networks. Walden has been named chairman, Disney Television Studios and ABC Entertainment Landgraf will serve as Chairman of FX Networks and FX Productions. Knell will serve as Chairman of National Geographic Partners.
“The strength of 21st Century Fox’s first-class management talent has always been a compelling part of this opportunity for us,” said Robert A. Iger, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, The Walt Disney Company. “Upon completion of the acquisition, this new structure positions these proven leaders to help drive maximum value from a greatly enhanced portfolio of incredible brands and businesses.”
With the announcement,...
The Walt Disney Co. announced that Rice and Walden will come aboard to lead the conglomerate’s non-sports television operations. Rice has been named chairman, Walt Disney Television and co-chair, Disney Media Networks. Walden has been named chairman, Disney Television Studios and ABC Entertainment Landgraf will serve as Chairman of FX Networks and FX Productions. Knell will serve as Chairman of National Geographic Partners.
“The strength of 21st Century Fox’s first-class management talent has always been a compelling part of this opportunity for us,” said Robert A. Iger, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, The Walt Disney Company. “Upon completion of the acquisition, this new structure positions these proven leaders to help drive maximum value from a greatly enhanced portfolio of incredible brands and businesses.”
With the announcement,...
- 10/8/2018
- by Daniel Holloway
- Variety Film + TV
Ending months of speculation and weeks of deal-making, Disney this morning officially announced the top TV executives from 21st Century Fox who will transition to Disney following its $71.3 billion acquisition of key Fox assets. As expected, the list includes 21st Century Fox president and Chairman & CEO of Fox Networks Group Peter Rice, Fox TV Group chairman and CEO Dana Walden, FX Networks CEO John Landgraf and Gary E. Knell, CEO of National Geographic Partners. Also moving to Disney are the top executives from 20th Century Fox TV, Jonnie Davis, Howard Kurtzman and Bert Salke. All will carry on their current Fox duties until the Disney deal is completed, expected by early 2019.
Also as expected, missing from the list is Fox TV Group chairman and CEO Gary Newman who is in final negotiations to remain at “Fox” for a period of time and oversee the broadcast network as it ushers in...
Also as expected, missing from the list is Fox TV Group chairman and CEO Gary Newman who is in final negotiations to remain at “Fox” for a period of time and oversee the broadcast network as it ushers in...
- 10/8/2018
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Following nearly a year of speculation, Disney has unveiled the first wave of its post-merger leadership structure.
21st Century Fox president Peter Rice and Fox TV Group chairman Dana Walden are both moving over to Disney with senior roles and expanded purviews on the TV side. They will each assume control over a portfolio previously managed by Disney’s outgoing TV honcho, Ben Sherwood, though Rice’s collection of assets will be considerably greater post-merger. Sherwood will remain in his current role through the transition period until the deal closes.
"The strength of 21st Century Fox’s first-class management ...
21st Century Fox president Peter Rice and Fox TV Group chairman Dana Walden are both moving over to Disney with senior roles and expanded purviews on the TV side. They will each assume control over a portfolio previously managed by Disney’s outgoing TV honcho, Ben Sherwood, though Rice’s collection of assets will be considerably greater post-merger. Sherwood will remain in his current role through the transition period until the deal closes.
"The strength of 21st Century Fox’s first-class management ...
- 10/8/2018
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
“New Fox” has laid out its executive team for what remains after the Disney acquisition.
Here are the key bullet points:
Eric Shanks, elevated to Chief Executive Officer of Fox Sports from his current role of President, Chief Operating Officer & Executive Producer, Fox Sports; Mike Biard, elevated to President, Operations and Distribution for Fox from President, Distribution for Fox Networks Group; Paul Cheesbrough, promoted to Chief Technology Officer and Head of Direct to Consumer Platforms for Fox; currently serves as 21Cf’s Cto; Marianne Gambelli, elevated to President of Ad Sales for Fox; currently serves as President of Ad Sales for Fox News Channel and Fox Business Network; Steve Tomsic, promoted to Fox’s Chief Financial Officer; currently serves as 21Cf’s Evp, Finance and Deputy CFO.
Also Read: Rupert Murdoch and Sons Pay Soars as Fox-Disney Deal Awaits Completion
“We are fortunate to be able to continue working with...
Here are the key bullet points:
Eric Shanks, elevated to Chief Executive Officer of Fox Sports from his current role of President, Chief Operating Officer & Executive Producer, Fox Sports; Mike Biard, elevated to President, Operations and Distribution for Fox from President, Distribution for Fox Networks Group; Paul Cheesbrough, promoted to Chief Technology Officer and Head of Direct to Consumer Platforms for Fox; currently serves as 21Cf’s Cto; Marianne Gambelli, elevated to President of Ad Sales for Fox; currently serves as President of Ad Sales for Fox News Channel and Fox Business Network; Steve Tomsic, promoted to Fox’s Chief Financial Officer; currently serves as 21Cf’s Evp, Finance and Deputy CFO.
Also Read: Rupert Murdoch and Sons Pay Soars as Fox-Disney Deal Awaits Completion
“We are fortunate to be able to continue working with...
- 10/2/2018
- by Tony Maglio and Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
Netflix is diving deeper into interactive content that will let viewers decide the outcome of some of their favorite Netflix originals, Bloomberg reported on Monday.
The streaming giant plans to release the first of these shows before the end of the year and will also release an interactive episode from the upcoming season of its Emmy-winning science-fiction series “Black Mirror.” The series, which is much like a modern-day “Twilight Zone,” features satirical tales that explore techno-paranoia with stories that tap into the collective unease about the modern world. The fifth season of the show is expected to be released sometime in December.
Interactive content is nothing new to Netflix. The streaming giant has a growing history with the format, which first started last year with the release of “Puss in Book: Trapped in an Epic Tale,” a choose-your-own-adventure story for children. The series allowed users to make simple decisions, such...
The streaming giant plans to release the first of these shows before the end of the year and will also release an interactive episode from the upcoming season of its Emmy-winning science-fiction series “Black Mirror.” The series, which is much like a modern-day “Twilight Zone,” features satirical tales that explore techno-paranoia with stories that tap into the collective unease about the modern world. The fifth season of the show is expected to be released sometime in December.
Interactive content is nothing new to Netflix. The streaming giant has a growing history with the format, which first started last year with the release of “Puss in Book: Trapped in an Epic Tale,” a choose-your-own-adventure story for children. The series allowed users to make simple decisions, such...
- 10/1/2018
- by Matt Lopez
- The Wrap
The Murdoch Family just became rich(er). Rupert Murdoch and sons, James and Lachlan, each hauled in around $50 million in fiscal 2018, representing huge pay bumps from the prior year.
Rupert Murdoch, the 21st Century Fox executive chairman, actually had the lightest compensation of the family this year, with $49.2 million. Don’t feel sorry for the media mogul, however, that’s still a very healthy 68 percent bump from fiscal 2017, according to SEC filings.
The big boss man, like his boys, saw his all-in pay soar due to stock awards associated with the pending Disney takeover. The retention of Fox’s top executives through the Disney merger resulted in large payouts that would not have existed in a *normal* operational year.
Also Read: Ben Sherwood Expected to Exit Disney After Merger With 21st Century Fox
Rupert’s stock take was $23.3 million, which nearly matched the rest of his executive compensation. Those categories include a salary of $7.1 million,...
Rupert Murdoch, the 21st Century Fox executive chairman, actually had the lightest compensation of the family this year, with $49.2 million. Don’t feel sorry for the media mogul, however, that’s still a very healthy 68 percent bump from fiscal 2017, according to SEC filings.
The big boss man, like his boys, saw his all-in pay soar due to stock awards associated with the pending Disney takeover. The retention of Fox’s top executives through the Disney merger resulted in large payouts that would not have existed in a *normal* operational year.
Also Read: Ben Sherwood Expected to Exit Disney After Merger With 21st Century Fox
Rupert’s stock take was $23.3 million, which nearly matched the rest of his executive compensation. Those categories include a salary of $7.1 million,...
- 9/28/2018
- by Tony Maglio
- The Wrap
Fox says it will sell or tender its 39 percent ownership in Sky to Comcast, who purchased the rest of the U.K. media giant over the weekend for $39 billion. This remaining stake is currently worth $15.3 billion.
Here is 21st Century Fox’s full statement on its decision to unload its holdings:
In light of the premium Comcast has agreed to pay for Sky, we and Disney have decided to sell 21Cf’s existing 39% holding in Sky to Comcast. We congratulate Comcast on their pending acquisition.
We are proud of the role our company has played in building Sky, and of the outstanding value we have delivered for shareholders of 21Cf and Sky, and customers across Europe.
When we launched Sky in 1989 it was four channels produced from a prefab structure in an industrial park on the fringes of west London. We bet — and almost lost — the farm on launching a...
Here is 21st Century Fox’s full statement on its decision to unload its holdings:
In light of the premium Comcast has agreed to pay for Sky, we and Disney have decided to sell 21Cf’s existing 39% holding in Sky to Comcast. We congratulate Comcast on their pending acquisition.
We are proud of the role our company has played in building Sky, and of the outstanding value we have delivered for shareholders of 21Cf and Sky, and customers across Europe.
When we launched Sky in 1989 it was four channels produced from a prefab structure in an industrial park on the fringes of west London. We bet — and almost lost — the farm on launching a...
- 9/26/2018
- by Tony Maglio
- The Wrap
NBC has lost a lot of talent in 2018 — and we’re not talking about the kind you see on-screen. Chairman Bob Greenblatt’s final day leading the network and its studio is Tuesday, when he follows his former lieutenant Jen Salke out the door.
In February, Salke left her role as head of NBC’s scripted team to lead Amazon Studios, a position that was vacated after accusations of sexual misconduct were made against Roy Price. That candidate search, we’ve been told, came down to Salke and Fox’s Dana Walden, who herself should soon be doing big things for Disney.
Three months later, Salke brought Vernon Sanders, who worked with her under his production deal at NBCUniversal, to Amazon as Albert Cheng’s co-head of TV. That recruitment was another blow to NBC. Like Salke, Sanders is both well-respected and generally beloved by his peers in the industry.
In February, Salke left her role as head of NBC’s scripted team to lead Amazon Studios, a position that was vacated after accusations of sexual misconduct were made against Roy Price. That candidate search, we’ve been told, came down to Salke and Fox’s Dana Walden, who herself should soon be doing big things for Disney.
Three months later, Salke brought Vernon Sanders, who worked with her under his production deal at NBCUniversal, to Amazon as Albert Cheng’s co-head of TV. That recruitment was another blow to NBC. Like Salke, Sanders is both well-respected and generally beloved by his peers in the industry.
- 9/25/2018
- by Tony Maglio
- The Wrap
Tonight marks the beginning of the 2018-19 broadcast season. Years ago, it would’ve been a big event, marking the end of four months of repeats and the return of originals to TV. For the networks, it was a make-or-break time as the overnight ratings during premiere week determined whether their new series were hits or flops.
Those days are long gone. With a slew of scripted shows being released steadily year-round by cable and streaming networks, there is far less anticipation for the crop of new and returning broadcast series. Meanwhile, overnight ratings tell only a fraction of the story as the popularity of delayed and online viewing continues to grow.
While these are issues that have been building for years, this summer marked unprecedented upheaval at the broadcast networks.
The top executives at the Big 4 networks who unveiled the fall lineups at the upfronts in May are...
Those days are long gone. With a slew of scripted shows being released steadily year-round by cable and streaming networks, there is far less anticipation for the crop of new and returning broadcast series. Meanwhile, overnight ratings tell only a fraction of the story as the popularity of delayed and online viewing continues to grow.
While these are issues that have been building for years, this summer marked unprecedented upheaval at the broadcast networks.
The top executives at the Big 4 networks who unveiled the fall lineups at the upfronts in May are...
- 9/24/2018
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
We are about a week or so away from Disney unveiling the names of top 21st Century Fox executives who would be joining the company following the acquisition of key Fox assets; we hear an announcement of the company’s post-acquisition structure expected may be coming on Oct.1. With 21st Century Fox president Peter Rice’s deal said to be all but done and Fox TV Group chairman Dana Walden negotiating hers, the first major Disney-ABC departure, which had been in the works for weeks, has been confirmed.
Disney-abc TV Group Ben Sherwood is not expected to continue in the combined company. The move had been fully expected with Rice and Walden coming on board in top TV roles — Walden has been in talks to oversee key divisions that Sherwood currently does, which would include the combined 20th Century Fox TV-ABC Studios, under Rice, who would be heading all TV content.
Disney-abc TV Group Ben Sherwood is not expected to continue in the combined company. The move had been fully expected with Rice and Walden coming on board in top TV roles — Walden has been in talks to oversee key divisions that Sherwood currently does, which would include the combined 20th Century Fox TV-ABC Studios, under Rice, who would be heading all TV content.
- 9/23/2018
- by Nellie Andreeva and Dawn C. Chmielewski
- Deadline Film + TV
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