Variety is expanding its international coverage with the appointment of well-respected trade correspondent Alex Ritman as its London Bureau Chief.
Ritman, who is based in London, was U.K. correspondent at The Hollywood Reporter for nine years. During that time, he was nominated for several National Arts and Entertainment Journalism Awards, co-winning in 2017 for a feature about Leonardo DiCaprio and a major international corruption scandal. He was most recently nominated for a profile of Daniel Radcliffe. Prior to joining THR, Ritman wrote for publications including The Guardian, Time Out, The Sunday Times, Esquire, The Daily Beast, The Los Angeles Times and Little White Lies. He spent several years in the Middle East as the main film writer for The National newspaper.
At Variety, Ritman will contribute to magazine features and web stories with an emphasis on U.K. film and media, production and financial news, as well as industry analysis,...
Ritman, who is based in London, was U.K. correspondent at The Hollywood Reporter for nine years. During that time, he was nominated for several National Arts and Entertainment Journalism Awards, co-winning in 2017 for a feature about Leonardo DiCaprio and a major international corruption scandal. He was most recently nominated for a profile of Daniel Radcliffe. Prior to joining THR, Ritman wrote for publications including The Guardian, Time Out, The Sunday Times, Esquire, The Daily Beast, The Los Angeles Times and Little White Lies. He spent several years in the Middle East as the main film writer for The National newspaper.
At Variety, Ritman will contribute to magazine features and web stories with an emphasis on U.K. film and media, production and financial news, as well as industry analysis,...
- 12/13/2023
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
Questions (and concerns) about AI will come to the foreground at this year’s Mipcom international co-production and content market, which runs Oct. 16–19 in Cannes. Alongside the thousands of buyers and preeminent audiovisual execs expected to hit the mart, immersive producers, media regulators and legal experts will take the stage for an Oct. 17 “Unlocking AI” summit meant to address ethical concerns and better contextualize those two anxiety-inducing vowels on everyone’s mind.
“We are staging this summit because AI has universal importance in each of the 100 different countries that attend Mipcom,” says event director Lucy Smith. “And we hope our contributors can both demonstrate and demystify [the new technology].”
Hewing along more traditional lines, October’s edition will kick off with an event screening of the Secuoya Studios’ “Zorro,” a small screen comeback for the swashbuckling Don Diego de la Vega — here played by “Elite” and “1899” star Miguel Bernardeau — in a production...
“We are staging this summit because AI has universal importance in each of the 100 different countries that attend Mipcom,” says event director Lucy Smith. “And we hope our contributors can both demonstrate and demystify [the new technology].”
Hewing along more traditional lines, October’s edition will kick off with an event screening of the Secuoya Studios’ “Zorro,” a small screen comeback for the swashbuckling Don Diego de la Vega — here played by “Elite” and “1899” star Miguel Bernardeau — in a production...
- 10/12/2023
- by Ben Croll
- Variety Film + TV
Four Hollywood CEOs returned to the bargaining table Thursday for a second day of talks with the Writers Guild of America, as the industry looked for signs of progress toward a deal that would end the 143-day strike.
As of shortly after 6 p.m., the CEOs were still in the room in Sherman Oaks, as a marathon bargaining session continued.
The CEOs who attended the session were, once again, Bob Iger of Disney, David Zaslav of Warner Bros. Discovery, Donna Langley of NBCUniversal, and Ted Sarandos of Netflix.
Sources said the two sides were making progress in several areas, though significant issues remained. It was not clear whether the CEOs would be able to return for a third day of bargaining on Friday, though the sources stressed that the parties aim to capitalize on momentum and are committed to getting a deal.
They said the studios made moves in multiple...
As of shortly after 6 p.m., the CEOs were still in the room in Sherman Oaks, as a marathon bargaining session continued.
The CEOs who attended the session were, once again, Bob Iger of Disney, David Zaslav of Warner Bros. Discovery, Donna Langley of NBCUniversal, and Ted Sarandos of Netflix.
Sources said the two sides were making progress in several areas, though significant issues remained. It was not clear whether the CEOs would be able to return for a third day of bargaining on Friday, though the sources stressed that the parties aim to capitalize on momentum and are committed to getting a deal.
They said the studios made moves in multiple...
- 9/22/2023
- by Gene Maddaus
- Variety Film + TV
Updated: The Writers Guild of America met again with negotiators from the major studios on Friday afternoon, but the sides appeared to make little progress toward ending the 109-day strike. The guild issued a message to members Friday evening confirming that the sides plan to gather again next week.
The guild has held talks each of the last four days with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, but the two sides remain far apart on the major issues, according to sources familiar with the negotiations. The WGA’s message to members stated that the sides “continue to exchange proposals” and will meet again next week though no specific dates were included.
“Thank you for the many messages of support and solidarity as we talk with the AMPTP. As always, be skeptical of rumors from third parties, knowing that the Guild will communicate when we think there is something of significance to report,...
The guild has held talks each of the last four days with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, but the two sides remain far apart on the major issues, according to sources familiar with the negotiations. The WGA’s message to members stated that the sides “continue to exchange proposals” and will meet again next week though no specific dates were included.
“Thank you for the many messages of support and solidarity as we talk with the AMPTP. As always, be skeptical of rumors from third parties, knowing that the Guild will communicate when we think there is something of significance to report,...
- 8/19/2023
- by Gene Maddaus
- Variety Film + TV
Longtime “Daily Show” correspondent Roy Wood Jr. spoke about the future of late-night TV at Variety and Rolling Stone’s Truth Seekers Summit, presented by Showtime, saying he believes studios don’t realize that the more they look to downsize shows, the more likely they will face stiff competition from TikTok creators and other social media stars who can retain the rights to their content.
“I think the cheaper that they choose to make the product, the more accessible and affordable you make it for outside competitors to come in,” Wood Jr. said, when answering a question about if he was interested in hosting the Comedy Central talker following the exit of Trevor Noah, or any late-night show, in general.
“That’s the thing that I don’t think the entertainment studios understand is, if you want to get rid of an audience if you want to make the show a little smaller,...
“I think the cheaper that they choose to make the product, the more accessible and affordable you make it for outside competitors to come in,” Wood Jr. said, when answering a question about if he was interested in hosting the Comedy Central talker following the exit of Trevor Noah, or any late-night show, in general.
“That’s the thing that I don’t think the entertainment studios understand is, if you want to get rid of an audience if you want to make the show a little smaller,...
- 8/3/2023
- by Jennifer Maas
- Variety Film + TV
Jeff Shell is stepping down as CEO of NBCUniversal following a misconduct investigation, which found he had an “inappropriate relationship” with a woman in the company.
Comcast, the parent company of NBCUniversal, and Shell announced the news in a joint statement, saying they have mutually agreed that Shell will depart effective immediately following a third-party investigation into a complaint of inappropriate conduct.
“Today is my last day as CEO of NBCUniversal,” Shell wrote in a memo to staff. “I had an inappropriate relationship with a woman in the company, which I deeply regret. I’m truly sorry I let my Comcast and NBCUniversal colleagues down, they are the most talented people in the business and the opportunity to work with them the last 19 years has been a privilege.”
A successor to Shell has not been named. Shell’s senior team will now report directly to Mike Cavanagh, president of Comcast Corporation.
Comcast, the parent company of NBCUniversal, and Shell announced the news in a joint statement, saying they have mutually agreed that Shell will depart effective immediately following a third-party investigation into a complaint of inappropriate conduct.
“Today is my last day as CEO of NBCUniversal,” Shell wrote in a memo to staff. “I had an inappropriate relationship with a woman in the company, which I deeply regret. I’m truly sorry I let my Comcast and NBCUniversal colleagues down, they are the most talented people in the business and the opportunity to work with them the last 19 years has been a privilege.”
A successor to Shell has not been named. Shell’s senior team will now report directly to Mike Cavanagh, president of Comcast Corporation.
- 4/23/2023
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety Film + TV
Alison Herman is Variety’s new TV critic, joining chief TV critic Daniel D’Addario. In the role, Herman will be a key voice in television criticism, writing reviews, commentary, appreciations and cover stories across all of Variety’s platforms. She will work with editor-at-large Kate Aurthur, who oversees the publication’s TV criticism and features.
Herman was a staff writer at The Ringer from 2016 to 2023, where she covered television and popular culture. During her tenure, she wrote columns on new shows, profiled performers such as John Mulaney and reported the definitive piece on the aesthetics of “Succession.”
“TV criticism is one of the bedrocks of Variety, as the No. 1 brand covering the business of entertainment,” co-Editors-in-Chief Cynthia Littleton and Ramin Setoodeh say. “Alison’s deep knowledge of television and pop culture make her the perfect addition to our team.”
Says Herman: “I couldn’t be more excited to cover television...
Herman was a staff writer at The Ringer from 2016 to 2023, where she covered television and popular culture. During her tenure, she wrote columns on new shows, profiled performers such as John Mulaney and reported the definitive piece on the aesthetics of “Succession.”
“TV criticism is one of the bedrocks of Variety, as the No. 1 brand covering the business of entertainment,” co-Editors-in-Chief Cynthia Littleton and Ramin Setoodeh say. “Alison’s deep knowledge of television and pop culture make her the perfect addition to our team.”
Says Herman: “I couldn’t be more excited to cover television...
- 4/17/2023
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
Joe Earley, the president of Hulu, never misses an opportunity to flex his marketing skills. While discussing the ongoing trend of subscribers leaving streaming platforms (also known as churn), Earley said he’s noticed one exception to the rule in bundles that Hulu offers alongside access to Disney+ and ESPN+.
“The churn is so low on the bundle, so we want as many people to subscribe to it as possible, because they’re happy, they stay longer,” Earley said, before adding that “it is still an unbelievable price of 13.99,” to laughs from the audience.
Earley discussed Hulu’s strategy (and perhaps solicited some new subscribers) in conversation with Cynthia Littleton, co-editor in chief of Variety, at the Variety Entertainment Marketing Summit presented by Deloitte.
As a veteran of the industry with more than two decades of experience, Earley spoke about the many skills necessary for success in the streaming wars.
“The churn is so low on the bundle, so we want as many people to subscribe to it as possible, because they’re happy, they stay longer,” Earley said, before adding that “it is still an unbelievable price of 13.99,” to laughs from the audience.
Earley discussed Hulu’s strategy (and perhaps solicited some new subscribers) in conversation with Cynthia Littleton, co-editor in chief of Variety, at the Variety Entertainment Marketing Summit presented by Deloitte.
As a veteran of the industry with more than two decades of experience, Earley spoke about the many skills necessary for success in the streaming wars.
- 5/25/2022
- by Sasha Urban
- Variety Film + TV
Movie theaters reopened, “Succession” Season 3 is finally here and some of the biggest artists are hitting the road once again to go back on tour. As the entertainment industry mounts a measured comeback amid the global pandemic, here are the films, series and artists that the writers, editors and reporters at Variety are thankful for this Thanksgiving.
I’m thankful for “Succession” Season 3! — Claudia Eller, editor-in-chief
Thankful that finally a woman of color has won an Oscar for best director! Thank you for providing exceptional representation, Chloé Zhao. — Tiana DeNicola, production supervisor
I’m thankful for the “Wonder Years” reboot. It’s wonderful! Makes me laugh out loud. Many scenes I lived. Pure joy! — Sheila Dixon Howard, editorial coordinator
I’m thankful for “Ted Lasso” and “Dopesick” — two shows that moved me deeply this year. — Cynthia Littleton, co-editor-in-chief
I am grateful for the return of live music and Willie Nelson being back on tour.
I’m thankful for “Succession” Season 3! — Claudia Eller, editor-in-chief
Thankful that finally a woman of color has won an Oscar for best director! Thank you for providing exceptional representation, Chloé Zhao. — Tiana DeNicola, production supervisor
I’m thankful for the “Wonder Years” reboot. It’s wonderful! Makes me laugh out loud. Many scenes I lived. Pure joy! — Sheila Dixon Howard, editorial coordinator
I’m thankful for “Ted Lasso” and “Dopesick” — two shows that moved me deeply this year. — Cynthia Littleton, co-editor-in-chief
I am grateful for the return of live music and Willie Nelson being back on tour.
- 11/25/2021
- by David Viramontes
- Variety Film + TV
Top ViacomCBS executive David Nevins is in talks for an expanded role that would include oversight of content for Paramount Plus, sources tell Variety.
The longtime Showtime CEO and chairman, who also serves as chief creative officer of CBS, would maintain his portfolio that at present includes Showtime Networks and BET Networks, individuals with knowledge of the talks said. A ViacomCBS spokesman declined to comment.
The promotion for Nevins would clarify the management picture at Paramount Plus and the scope of Nevins’ role within ViacomCBS. The question of who will steer programming decisions for the streamer has been a murky ever since CBS All Access was transformed into Paramount Plus on March 4. Nevins previously had a hand in programming decisions for CBS All Access through his chief creative officer role.
But ViacomCBS shook up its digital executive ranks in the run-up to the Paramount Plus debut. Marc DeBevoise, who was...
The longtime Showtime CEO and chairman, who also serves as chief creative officer of CBS, would maintain his portfolio that at present includes Showtime Networks and BET Networks, individuals with knowledge of the talks said. A ViacomCBS spokesman declined to comment.
The promotion for Nevins would clarify the management picture at Paramount Plus and the scope of Nevins’ role within ViacomCBS. The question of who will steer programming decisions for the streamer has been a murky ever since CBS All Access was transformed into Paramount Plus on March 4. Nevins previously had a hand in programming decisions for CBS All Access through his chief creative officer role.
But ViacomCBS shook up its digital executive ranks in the run-up to the Paramount Plus debut. Marc DeBevoise, who was...
- 6/17/2021
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
For Mariska Hargitay, the departure of Christopher Meloni and his “Law & Order: Svu” character, Elliot Stabler in 2011 after 12 seasons, was “so painful for me and so hard because the way he left, there was no closure. There was just a big hole.”
But Meloni is back, in the spinoff series “Law & Order: Organized Crime,” and the two actors met up with Variety’s Cynthia Littleton in the Variety/NBCUniversal Virtual FYC House to discuss their reunion, both on camera and off.
“Now coming back again, incredibly earned,” Hargitay said. “Within the writing, there’s so much to play and yet it’s sort of effortless because it’s true. And we have been apart, so it’s been a joy. One of the, I think, biggest compliments that I received and I receive still is, ‘I like it best when there’s no words, when you guys are just looking at each other,...
But Meloni is back, in the spinoff series “Law & Order: Organized Crime,” and the two actors met up with Variety’s Cynthia Littleton in the Variety/NBCUniversal Virtual FYC House to discuss their reunion, both on camera and off.
“Now coming back again, incredibly earned,” Hargitay said. “Within the writing, there’s so much to play and yet it’s sort of effortless because it’s true. And we have been apart, so it’s been a joy. One of the, I think, biggest compliments that I received and I receive still is, ‘I like it best when there’s no words, when you guys are just looking at each other,...
- 6/16/2021
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
James Bond producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson have vowed to keep the iconic British spy in movie theaters, despite streaming giant Amazon’s $8.45 billion acquisition of 007 studio MGM.
“We are committed to continuing to make James Bond films for the worldwide theatrical audience,” Broccoli and Wilson, who run London-headquartered Eon Productions, told Variety in a statement.
It’s still unknown how long a theatrical window the films may have before eventually landing on Amazon Prime Video, but one thing is crystal clear: “No Time to Die,” Daniel Craig’s swan song as Bond, is on track to hit cinemas on Oct. 8.
Eon Productions, which is owned by the Broccoli family, have been stewards of the film series dating back to Bond’s first on-screen appearance in 1962’s “Dr. No.”
Under a deal first hammered out by Albert “Cubby” Broccoli, MGM has the right to finance and distribute all of the Bond movies,...
“We are committed to continuing to make James Bond films for the worldwide theatrical audience,” Broccoli and Wilson, who run London-headquartered Eon Productions, told Variety in a statement.
It’s still unknown how long a theatrical window the films may have before eventually landing on Amazon Prime Video, but one thing is crystal clear: “No Time to Die,” Daniel Craig’s swan song as Bond, is on track to hit cinemas on Oct. 8.
Eon Productions, which is owned by the Broccoli family, have been stewards of the film series dating back to Bond’s first on-screen appearance in 1962’s “Dr. No.”
Under a deal first hammered out by Albert “Cubby” Broccoli, MGM has the right to finance and distribute all of the Bond movies,...
- 5/26/2021
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
Variety has bolstered its television team with the promotions of editors Diane Garrett and Michael Schneider.
Garrett, most recently an editor in the Focus features department, has been named senior TV editor. Schneider has advanced to deputy TV editor in addition to his role as senior editor, TV awards. Garrett and Schneider report to Cynthia Littleton, co-editor in chief.
Garrett will work closely with Littleton and Schneider in developing news and feature stories for all Variety platforms. She will help plan coverage of TV-related news and events and help manage Variety’s growing team of reporters who cover television.
Schneider’s elevation comes as the Variety veteran takes on expanded responsibilities for steering coverage of news and features, with an emphasis on TV-related pop culture, movers and shakers and rising stars in the creative community.
As TV awards chief, Schneider oversees awards coverage and pens the weekly Awards HQ newsletter.
Garrett, most recently an editor in the Focus features department, has been named senior TV editor. Schneider has advanced to deputy TV editor in addition to his role as senior editor, TV awards. Garrett and Schneider report to Cynthia Littleton, co-editor in chief.
Garrett will work closely with Littleton and Schneider in developing news and feature stories for all Variety platforms. She will help plan coverage of TV-related news and events and help manage Variety’s growing team of reporters who cover television.
Schneider’s elevation comes as the Variety veteran takes on expanded responsibilities for steering coverage of news and features, with an emphasis on TV-related pop culture, movers and shakers and rising stars in the creative community.
As TV awards chief, Schneider oversees awards coverage and pens the weekly Awards HQ newsletter.
- 5/20/2021
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
CBS’ “Evil” plan is to move the supernatural drama to streamer Paramount Plus, multiple sources tell Variety.
Ahead of CBS’ upfront presentation to advertisers and the press on Wednesday, sources expect that “Evil” will join “Seal Team” and “Clarice” on ViacomCBS’ streaming service, which relaunched in March. As the months have ticked by, “Evil” fans — and they are a passionate group — have fretted about the show’s lack of a premiere date, which was expected to be in the spring, and the timing of when “Evil” Season 2 will premiere on Paramount Plus is still being worked out, sources say.
The ratings for “Evil” were strong enough on CBS to merit an early renewal a month after it premiered in September 2019, but when the whole show dropped on Netflix in October 2020, it became a viral, buzzy hit.
Again and again in recent months, media conglomerates have demonstrated that streaming services are...
Ahead of CBS’ upfront presentation to advertisers and the press on Wednesday, sources expect that “Evil” will join “Seal Team” and “Clarice” on ViacomCBS’ streaming service, which relaunched in March. As the months have ticked by, “Evil” fans — and they are a passionate group — have fretted about the show’s lack of a premiere date, which was expected to be in the spring, and the timing of when “Evil” Season 2 will premiere on Paramount Plus is still being worked out, sources say.
The ratings for “Evil” were strong enough on CBS to merit an early renewal a month after it premiered in September 2019, but when the whole show dropped on Netflix in October 2020, it became a viral, buzzy hit.
Again and again in recent months, media conglomerates have demonstrated that streaming services are...
- 5/17/2021
- by Kate Aurthur
- Variety Film + TV
Our issue this week aims to capture the altered state of the entertainment industry. As the biggest media companies have thrust themselves into the highly competitive direct-to-consumer business, it’s been fascinating to cover how they’ve realigned their operations and created new hierarchal structures around their new priorities.
For more than a year we’ve been having internal discussions about how the once distinct line between film and television has essentially blurred as the exploitation of IP across platforms has trumped the traditional divisional divides at the media giants.
As Joe Otterson’s cover story points out, “Where gilded properties like ‘Star Wars’ and the many characters of the Marvel universe were once stratified as the stuff of movies only, the explosion of content platforms has erased the lanes that used to so specifically define something as ‘film’ or ‘TV.’”
Given that the entire ecosystem of the business has shifted,...
For more than a year we’ve been having internal discussions about how the once distinct line between film and television has essentially blurred as the exploitation of IP across platforms has trumped the traditional divisional divides at the media giants.
As Joe Otterson’s cover story points out, “Where gilded properties like ‘Star Wars’ and the many characters of the Marvel universe were once stratified as the stuff of movies only, the explosion of content platforms has erased the lanes that used to so specifically define something as ‘film’ or ‘TV.’”
Given that the entire ecosystem of the business has shifted,...
- 4/14/2021
- by Claudia Eller
- Variety Film + TV
Amid the backlash to Georgia’s sweeping overhaul of voting rights, Hollywood heavyweights are threatening economic consequences for the production-friendly state and calling for a federal investigation.
The controversial new law requires a state-issued ID for absentee voting, limits the number of ballot drop boxes and makes it illegal to hand out food products and water to those waiting in line to cast their votes, among other measures criticized as efforts by the Republican-controlled legislature as efforts to suppress voting rights.
The law has drawn rebukes from Democrats, including President Joe Biden and former Georgia state representative turned voting activist Stacey Abrams, who has dedicated her work to making it easier for people of color and those in low-income communities to vote in Georgia.
On Tuesday, Tyler Perry became the latest filmmaker to speak out, encouraging the the Department of Justice to evaluate the law and saying that it “harkens to the Jim Crow era.
The controversial new law requires a state-issued ID for absentee voting, limits the number of ballot drop boxes and makes it illegal to hand out food products and water to those waiting in line to cast their votes, among other measures criticized as efforts by the Republican-controlled legislature as efforts to suppress voting rights.
The law has drawn rebukes from Democrats, including President Joe Biden and former Georgia state representative turned voting activist Stacey Abrams, who has dedicated her work to making it easier for people of color and those in low-income communities to vote in Georgia.
On Tuesday, Tyler Perry became the latest filmmaker to speak out, encouraging the the Department of Justice to evaluate the law and saying that it “harkens to the Jim Crow era.
- 3/31/2021
- by Matt Donnelly and Ellise Shafer
- Variety Film + TV
Less than a week after the Hollywood Foreign Press Association circulated a letter to Hollywood publicists insisting it was committed to diversifying and addressing longstanding criticisms of the organization, Variety has learned that a group of top publicity firms plan to formally warn the HFPA that they expect to see tangible changes.
The letter, which is still being drafted, will inform the organization behind the Golden Globe Awards that publicists will advise their clients not to take part in HFPA press conferences or interviews until the group proves it has a plan for transforming practices that have recently come under scrutiny, including the fact that the press association has not had any Black members since at least 2002.
The letter to be signed by representatives from an array of publicity and communications firms has been going through several revisions during the past few days through conference calls and Zoom sessions. It...
The letter, which is still being drafted, will inform the organization behind the Golden Globe Awards that publicists will advise their clients not to take part in HFPA press conferences or interviews until the group proves it has a plan for transforming practices that have recently come under scrutiny, including the fact that the press association has not had any Black members since at least 2002.
The letter to be signed by representatives from an array of publicity and communications firms has been going through several revisions during the past few days through conference calls and Zoom sessions. It...
- 3/15/2021
- by Marc Malkin
- Variety Film + TV
Oprah Winfrey’s explosive two-hour interview with Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, drew massive ratings for CBS Sunday night, with an audience of more than 17 million viewers tuning in live.
But those who had specifically signed up for Paramount Plus — ViacomCBS’ rebranded streaming service that launched just last week — to stream the highly anticipated interview were left high and dry. Though the special was available to watch live using Paramount Plus’ “live TV” function, the full program was not there. People who signed on Sunday night to watch the interview instead saw a splash featuring Queen Latifah for “The Equalizer” and “60 Minutes.” Nor did the search function on the site recognize “Oprah.”
“Oprah With Meghan and Harry: A Primetime Special” is now available on CBS.com. But the program is still not on Paramount Plus.
A source has told Variety that Harpo, Winfrey’s production company,...
But those who had specifically signed up for Paramount Plus — ViacomCBS’ rebranded streaming service that launched just last week — to stream the highly anticipated interview were left high and dry. Though the special was available to watch live using Paramount Plus’ “live TV” function, the full program was not there. People who signed on Sunday night to watch the interview instead saw a splash featuring Queen Latifah for “The Equalizer” and “60 Minutes.” Nor did the search function on the site recognize “Oprah.”
“Oprah With Meghan and Harry: A Primetime Special” is now available on CBS.com. But the program is still not on Paramount Plus.
A source has told Variety that Harpo, Winfrey’s production company,...
- 3/8/2021
- by Kate Aurthur
- Variety Film + TV
The Writers Guild of America, East is hosting their annual “And the Nominees Are…” Panels on March 10th, and Variety will host the livestreams.
The Comedy/Variety Series Panel will take place at 10:00am Pt / 1:00pm Et, while the Long-Form TV Movie & Limited Series Panel will take place at 4:00pm Pt / 7:00pm Et. Both will be streamed on Variety.com via the YouTube link below.
The Comedy/Variety Series panel will feature the following nominees:
Kristen Bartlett (“Full Frontal with Samantha Bee”)
Alex Baze (“Late Night With Seth Meyers”)
Jenny Hagel
Michael Koman (“How To with John Wilson”)
Mike Pielocik (“Desus & Mero”)
The panel will be moderated by Variety‘s Cynthia Littleton.
Later in the day, the Long-Form TV Movie & Limited Series Panel will feature the following nominees:
Alan Ball (“Uncle Frank”)
Ian Brennan (“Hollywood”)
Alexandra Cunningham (“Dirty John: The Betty Broderick Story”)
Scott Frank...
The Comedy/Variety Series Panel will take place at 10:00am Pt / 1:00pm Et, while the Long-Form TV Movie & Limited Series Panel will take place at 4:00pm Pt / 7:00pm Et. Both will be streamed on Variety.com via the YouTube link below.
The Comedy/Variety Series panel will feature the following nominees:
Kristen Bartlett (“Full Frontal with Samantha Bee”)
Alex Baze (“Late Night With Seth Meyers”)
Jenny Hagel
Michael Koman (“How To with John Wilson”)
Mike Pielocik (“Desus & Mero”)
The panel will be moderated by Variety‘s Cynthia Littleton.
Later in the day, the Long-Form TV Movie & Limited Series Panel will feature the following nominees:
Alan Ball (“Uncle Frank”)
Ian Brennan (“Hollywood”)
Alexandra Cunningham (“Dirty John: The Betty Broderick Story”)
Scott Frank...
- 3/5/2021
- by William Earl
- Variety Film + TV
It’s hard to believe now, but it took until 1996 for the broadcast networks to finally hire their first-ever female entertainment president, when ABC recruited Jamie Tarses away from NBC to take the job. There had been a handful of other women in powerful slots, including Lucie Salhany, who was briefly chair of the Fox Broadcasting Co. before launching Upn. But until streaming upended the business, “entertainment president” was the most visible, and arguably the most important, leadership job at a network. And until Tarses, it had been all men.
Tarses’ rise at ABC coincided with the start of my career as a cub reporter, covering the network TV business in Los Angeles, and one of my first duties was to chronicle the tenure of the young trailblazer. But from the start, Tarses was faced with many in Hollywood looking to tear her down — be it rivals jealous of her age,...
Tarses’ rise at ABC coincided with the start of my career as a cub reporter, covering the network TV business in Los Angeles, and one of my first duties was to chronicle the tenure of the young trailblazer. But from the start, Tarses was faced with many in Hollywood looking to tear her down — be it rivals jealous of her age,...
- 2/1/2021
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
Updated: Broadcast late-night shows all continued as planned amid rioting in Washington D.C.
Individuals with knowledge of the situation have told Variety that “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon,” “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” “Late Night with Seth Meyers,” “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,” and “The Late Late Show with James Corden” would all air original episodes on Wednesday night as scheduled.
Corden addressed the chaos in D.C. in a clip posted online Wednesday night, which can be seen below. In it, he says, “I got to thinking that when the dust settles, and we reflect on what happened on this awful day, that we still have hope because if there is one thing we can have after the last month in this country it’s hope.”
Kimmel meanwhile struck a more comedic tone, saying “The capitol was besieged by Maga-hatters in all manner of crazy costumes. It was...
Individuals with knowledge of the situation have told Variety that “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon,” “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” “Late Night with Seth Meyers,” “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,” and “The Late Late Show with James Corden” would all air original episodes on Wednesday night as scheduled.
Corden addressed the chaos in D.C. in a clip posted online Wednesday night, which can be seen below. In it, he says, “I got to thinking that when the dust settles, and we reflect on what happened on this awful day, that we still have hope because if there is one thing we can have after the last month in this country it’s hope.”
Kimmel meanwhile struck a more comedic tone, saying “The capitol was besieged by Maga-hatters in all manner of crazy costumes. It was...
- 1/6/2021
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
The scenes presented on Wednesday’s TV schedule looked like something out of a Hollywood movie: insurrectionists and insurgents surrounding the U.S. Capitol building in an effort to countermand the certification of a presidential election.
But the pictures weren’t showing up on networks like HBO or FX, which regularly present movies and high drama. The shocking sights were instead being transmitted by the nation’s TV news outlets in real time, forcing scores of broadcast and cable news journalists to scramble to cover the attack that involved many of their own.
Journalists from every major outlet were among those caught up on the terror within the House and Senate chambers as violent rioters stormed the building, breaking windows and looting offices. Reporters caught inside the Capitol delivered reportage and photos of the shocking sight of members of Congress crouching down in fear on the floor of the House and Senate,...
But the pictures weren’t showing up on networks like HBO or FX, which regularly present movies and high drama. The shocking sights were instead being transmitted by the nation’s TV news outlets in real time, forcing scores of broadcast and cable news journalists to scramble to cover the attack that involved many of their own.
Journalists from every major outlet were among those caught up on the terror within the House and Senate chambers as violent rioters stormed the building, breaking windows and looting offices. Reporters caught inside the Capitol delivered reportage and photos of the shocking sight of members of Congress crouching down in fear on the floor of the House and Senate,...
- 1/6/2021
- by Brian Steinberg
- Variety Film + TV
To make sense of all that has transpired in 2020 and what it portends for the media and entertainment sectors going forward, Variety spoke with a cross section of industry leaders about the broad theme of change. For more, click here.
At 7 p.m. Los Angeles time on March 11, the day the country began to shut down because of the coronavirus, my team and I were doing a budget presentation to Tokyo for the start of our fiscal year. We did it this time from Culver City via Microsoft Teams because there were already travel restrictions between the U.S. and Japan.
During the time we made our hourlong presentation, the NBA shut down its season, Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson announced they had Covid and the president banned flights from China into the United States. All of this while we were making the presentation. When we were finished, I looked...
At 7 p.m. Los Angeles time on March 11, the day the country began to shut down because of the coronavirus, my team and I were doing a budget presentation to Tokyo for the start of our fiscal year. We did it this time from Culver City via Microsoft Teams because there were already travel restrictions between the U.S. and Japan.
During the time we made our hourlong presentation, the NBA shut down its season, Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson announced they had Covid and the president banned flights from China into the United States. All of this while we were making the presentation. When we were finished, I looked...
- 12/16/2020
- by Tony Vinciquerra
- Variety Film + TV
To make sense of all that has transpired in 2020 and what it portends for the media and entertainment sectors going forward, Variety spoke with a cross section of industry leaders about the broad theme of change. For more, click here.
In the midst of challenges, chaos and disruption, it’s leadership that makes the difference. What we’ve learned from 2020, with all of its challenges, is that leadership will be the key to driving success for companies in transition.
Leadership is not just being someone’s boss. Leadership is getting people through difficult times and getting people in an organization to move together toward the same target. Leaders who can inspire others to sit up and say, “Ok, we’re doing this” through all of this change — those are the companies that are going to come out ahead in the future.
When we shut down our shows in March, I...
In the midst of challenges, chaos and disruption, it’s leadership that makes the difference. What we’ve learned from 2020, with all of its challenges, is that leadership will be the key to driving success for companies in transition.
Leadership is not just being someone’s boss. Leadership is getting people through difficult times and getting people in an organization to move together toward the same target. Leaders who can inspire others to sit up and say, “Ok, we’re doing this” through all of this change — those are the companies that are going to come out ahead in the future.
When we shut down our shows in March, I...
- 12/16/2020
- by Pearlena Igbokwe
- Variety Film + TV
To make sense of all that has transpired in 2020 and what it portends for the media and entertainment sectors going forward, Variety spoke with a cross section of industry leaders about the broad theme of change. For more, click here.
Former WME partner Charles D. King launched Macro in 2015 as a production banner to focus on amplifying stories and creative talent from underrepresented backgrounds. Macro brings deep resources to the development and production process thanks to private equity supporters including Laurene Powell Jobs’ Emerson Collective. In its short life, Macro has produced or co-financed such films as “Mudbound,” “Fences,” “Roman J. Israel, Esq.,” “Sorry to Bother You” and the upcoming “Judas and the Black Messiah.” The company also has expanded into management with its M88 banner, which now has more than half a dozen managers representing actors, writers and directors.
As Macro approaches its sixth anniversary next month, King speaks...
Former WME partner Charles D. King launched Macro in 2015 as a production banner to focus on amplifying stories and creative talent from underrepresented backgrounds. Macro brings deep resources to the development and production process thanks to private equity supporters including Laurene Powell Jobs’ Emerson Collective. In its short life, Macro has produced or co-financed such films as “Mudbound,” “Fences,” “Roman J. Israel, Esq.,” “Sorry to Bother You” and the upcoming “Judas and the Black Messiah.” The company also has expanded into management with its M88 banner, which now has more than half a dozen managers representing actors, writers and directors.
As Macro approaches its sixth anniversary next month, King speaks...
- 12/16/2020
- by Charles D. King
- Variety Film + TV
The past year has been the best of times and also the toughest of times for producers in the hunt for international co-production partners.
That was the sentiment shared by four industry veterans who gathered Dec. 10 for a virtual panel, “Betting on International Co-Productions: The Path Forward,” presented by the Producers Guild of America and Monte Carlo Television Festival and moderated by Variety co-editor in chief Cynthia Littleton.
The global demand for original content is showing no signs of slowing down. Prior to the pandemic, there were ample opportunities to assemble co-productions for traditional buyers. But the coronavirus clampdown has accelerated trends for the largest TV and streaming players that make it harder for producers work with multiple partners.
“It’s always like pushing a boulder up a hill to find the right partners,” said Christian Vesper, president of global drama for Fremantle. “Over the last nine months with the...
That was the sentiment shared by four industry veterans who gathered Dec. 10 for a virtual panel, “Betting on International Co-Productions: The Path Forward,” presented by the Producers Guild of America and Monte Carlo Television Festival and moderated by Variety co-editor in chief Cynthia Littleton.
The global demand for original content is showing no signs of slowing down. Prior to the pandemic, there were ample opportunities to assemble co-productions for traditional buyers. But the coronavirus clampdown has accelerated trends for the largest TV and streaming players that make it harder for producers work with multiple partners.
“It’s always like pushing a boulder up a hill to find the right partners,” said Christian Vesper, president of global drama for Fremantle. “Over the last nine months with the...
- 12/14/2020
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
Disneyland shut down, production has been halted worldwide and “Succession” Season 3 is extremely delayed. But even in this dumpster fire of a year, the Variety staff manages to find ways to be grateful. Below, read what the writers, editors and reporters at Variety are thankful for in entertainment this Thanksgiving.
For sweatpants and cashmere, celery juice, “Promising Young Woman” and my coworkers: my weapons in defeating 2020 — Matt Donnelly, senior film writer
I’m thankful that Clare, the Bachelorette, was bold and honest enough to deClare her feelings for Dale before taking us through an entire season of phony relationships! — Sheila Howard, editorial coordinator
I am thankful for “Hamilton” on Disney Plus restoring my will to live at the mid-point of this brutal year. — Cynthia Littleton, co-editor-in-chief of Variety
I’m thankful for Giuseppe Capotondi’s film version of Charles Willeford’s neo-noir novel “The Burnt Orange Heresy,” starring Claes Bang,...
For sweatpants and cashmere, celery juice, “Promising Young Woman” and my coworkers: my weapons in defeating 2020 — Matt Donnelly, senior film writer
I’m thankful that Clare, the Bachelorette, was bold and honest enough to deClare her feelings for Dale before taking us through an entire season of phony relationships! — Sheila Howard, editorial coordinator
I am thankful for “Hamilton” on Disney Plus restoring my will to live at the mid-point of this brutal year. — Cynthia Littleton, co-editor-in-chief of Variety
I’m thankful for Giuseppe Capotondi’s film version of Charles Willeford’s neo-noir novel “The Burnt Orange Heresy,” starring Claes Bang,...
- 11/25/2020
- by Meg Zukin
- Variety Film + TV
Consumers are increasingly turning toward connected television streaming platforms, thereby transforming the landscape of TV advertising, and the ways marketers and storytellers reach target audiences.
As part of Variety’s Streaming Room series, presented by software company The Trade Desk, Variety interim editor-in-chief Cynthia Littleton, and deputy awards and features editor Jenelle Riley moderated a conversation on the future of connected TV advertising and storytelling. Featured panelists included Tim Sims, chief revenue officer of The Trade Desk; Krishan Bhatia, executive vice president of business operations and strategy at NBCUniversal’s Advertising Sales; and James Roday Rodriguez and Dulé Hill, executive producers and stars of “Psych 2: Lassie Come Home.”
The event highlighted how programmers are pivoting toward building data partnerships to form better, direct relationships with consumers, who are increasingly turning toward customizable digital services.
“How do we help our clients bring access to every impression on every screen, everywhere in the world?...
As part of Variety’s Streaming Room series, presented by software company The Trade Desk, Variety interim editor-in-chief Cynthia Littleton, and deputy awards and features editor Jenelle Riley moderated a conversation on the future of connected TV advertising and storytelling. Featured panelists included Tim Sims, chief revenue officer of The Trade Desk; Krishan Bhatia, executive vice president of business operations and strategy at NBCUniversal’s Advertising Sales; and James Roday Rodriguez and Dulé Hill, executive producers and stars of “Psych 2: Lassie Come Home.”
The event highlighted how programmers are pivoting toward building data partnerships to form better, direct relationships with consumers, who are increasingly turning toward customizable digital services.
“How do we help our clients bring access to every impression on every screen, everywhere in the world?...
- 9/23/2020
- by Natalie Oganesyan
- Variety Film + TV
Digital news veteran William Earl has been named editor of Variety.com, overseeing online editorial operations for the venerable entertainment business news brand.
Earl’s appointment comes as Variety is expanding its digital activities beyond its core focus of breaking news and industry analysis to encompass video, podcasts and data-driven content powered by subscription platforms Variety VIP and Variety Insight. Earl reports to Cynthia Littleton, Variety interim editor-in-chief.
“William Earl is a digital media veteran with a strong track record of helping other Pmc brands grow and expand in highly competitive sectors,” Littleton said. “We’re happy to bring him on board at a time when there are incredible multi-platform opportunities for Variety’s worldwide team of journalists to cover the business of entertainment.”
Based in New York, Earl joined Variety parent company Pmc in 2011 and most recently served as Pmc’s director of digital development. In that role he...
Earl’s appointment comes as Variety is expanding its digital activities beyond its core focus of breaking news and industry analysis to encompass video, podcasts and data-driven content powered by subscription platforms Variety VIP and Variety Insight. Earl reports to Cynthia Littleton, Variety interim editor-in-chief.
“William Earl is a digital media veteran with a strong track record of helping other Pmc brands grow and expand in highly competitive sectors,” Littleton said. “We’re happy to bring him on board at a time when there are incredible multi-platform opportunities for Variety’s worldwide team of journalists to cover the business of entertainment.”
Based in New York, Earl joined Variety parent company Pmc in 2011 and most recently served as Pmc’s director of digital development. In that role he...
- 9/22/2020
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
Ellen DeGeneres’ resident DJ Stephen “tWitch” Boss has been named a co-executive producer at the daytime talk show, two individuals familiar with the decision told Variety.
The news was announced during a highly emotional address from DeGeneres to her “Ellen Show” staff on Monday, where she confronted months of reports of a toxic work environment and racism.
The host expressed a desire to “come back strong” in the forthcoming 18th season of her syndicated franchise, a Warner Bros. TV institution, with a renewed commitment to diversity. DeGeneres said Boss had already been helpful in that measure. The promotion will give the emcee more influence in both programming and the working culture, one insider added.
Less than a week ago, Boss told UsWeekly that “obviously there’s some things to address, but from my standpoint and from countless others, there’s been love. I’ll just leave it at that until...
The news was announced during a highly emotional address from DeGeneres to her “Ellen Show” staff on Monday, where she confronted months of reports of a toxic work environment and racism.
The host expressed a desire to “come back strong” in the forthcoming 18th season of her syndicated franchise, a Warner Bros. TV institution, with a renewed commitment to diversity. DeGeneres said Boss had already been helpful in that measure. The promotion will give the emcee more influence in both programming and the working culture, one insider added.
Less than a week ago, Boss told UsWeekly that “obviously there’s some things to address, but from my standpoint and from countless others, there’s been love. I’ll just leave it at that until...
- 8/17/2020
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Nick Cannon will continue to host Fox’s top-rated reality competition series “The Masked Singer,” the network confirmed on Wednesday. The news that Cannon would stay on “Masked Singer” comes after the host issued an apology online for anti-Semitic comments he made on a podcast.
“When we were made aware of Nick Cannon’s interview with Richard Griffin on YouTube, we immediately began a dialogue with Nick,” the network said in a statement. “He is clear and remorseful that his words were wrong and lacked both understanding and context, and inadvertently promoted hate. This was important for us to observe. Nick has sincerely apologized, and quickly taken steps to educate himself and make amends. On that basis and given a belief that this moment calls for dialogue, we will move forward with Nick and help him advance this important conversation, broadly. Fox condemns all forms of hate directed toward any...
“When we were made aware of Nick Cannon’s interview with Richard Griffin on YouTube, we immediately began a dialogue with Nick,” the network said in a statement. “He is clear and remorseful that his words were wrong and lacked both understanding and context, and inadvertently promoted hate. This was important for us to observe. Nick has sincerely apologized, and quickly taken steps to educate himself and make amends. On that basis and given a belief that this moment calls for dialogue, we will move forward with Nick and help him advance this important conversation, broadly. Fox condemns all forms of hate directed toward any...
- 7/16/2020
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
After a screening of the “Homeland” series finale, the show’s cast and developers joined a special edition of the Variety Streaming Room presented by the United Service Organizations, including a Q&a session with service members.
Star and executive producer Claire Danes, producer and co-star Mandy Patinkin, executive producer and director Lesli Linka Glatter and developers Howard Gordon and Alex Gansa talked with Variety‘s Cynthia Littleton about deciding the fate of Carrie Mathison and Saul Berenson’s relationship, played by Danes and Patinkin.
Show developer Alex Gansa didn’t have a solid plan of how the eight-season series would end until 72 hours before they filmed the final episode, but he found an unusual inspiration in whistleblower Edward Snowden.
“Snowden had divulged a lot of national security information and secrets, and had hightailed it to Russia, and had just published a book,” Gansa said. “And that image of his...
Star and executive producer Claire Danes, producer and co-star Mandy Patinkin, executive producer and director Lesli Linka Glatter and developers Howard Gordon and Alex Gansa talked with Variety‘s Cynthia Littleton about deciding the fate of Carrie Mathison and Saul Berenson’s relationship, played by Danes and Patinkin.
Show developer Alex Gansa didn’t have a solid plan of how the eight-season series would end until 72 hours before they filmed the final episode, but he found an unusual inspiration in whistleblower Edward Snowden.
“Snowden had divulged a lot of national security information and secrets, and had hightailed it to Russia, and had just published a book,” Gansa said. “And that image of his...
- 7/13/2020
- by Ellise Shafer
- Variety Film + TV
Variety veteran Justin Kroll is set to join Deadline next month as senior film reporter.
Kroll will cover all aspects of the film industry for Deadline, which is a corporate sibling of Variety under parent company Pmc. He will segue to Deadline as of July 20, reporting to Mike Fleming, co-editor-in-chief.
“Justin has humbled me often enough with his scoops. I’m delighted to have him join us here at Deadline,” said Fleming, who is co-editor in chief with Nellie Andreeva. “Nellie and I have gotten to know him a bit and he’ll be a strong addition to our team.”
Kroll has been with Variety since early 2008. He started out as an intern and was upped to editorial assistant in 2009. He has been a key member of the film reporting staff since 2010.
“Justin Kroll is one of the most dogged and well-connected reporters I’ve ever known,” said Cynthia Littleton,...
Kroll will cover all aspects of the film industry for Deadline, which is a corporate sibling of Variety under parent company Pmc. He will segue to Deadline as of July 20, reporting to Mike Fleming, co-editor-in-chief.
“Justin has humbled me often enough with his scoops. I’m delighted to have him join us here at Deadline,” said Fleming, who is co-editor in chief with Nellie Andreeva. “Nellie and I have gotten to know him a bit and he’ll be a strong addition to our team.”
Kroll has been with Variety since early 2008. He started out as an intern and was upped to editorial assistant in 2009. He has been a key member of the film reporting staff since 2010.
“Justin Kroll is one of the most dogged and well-connected reporters I’ve ever known,” said Cynthia Littleton,...
- 6/29/2020
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
Variety veteran Justin Kroll is set to join Deadline next month as senior film reporter.
Kroll will cover all aspects of the film industry for Deadline, which is a corporate sibling of Variety under parent company Pmc. He will segue to Deadline as of July 20, reporting to Mike Fleming, co-editor-in-chief.
“Justin has humbled me often enough with his scoops. I’m delighted to have him join us here at Deadline,” said Mike Fleming, who is co-editor-in-chief of Deadline with Nellie Andreeva. “Nellie and I have gotten to know him a bit and he’ll be a strong addition to our team.”
Kroll has been with Variety since early 2008. He started out as an intern and was upped to editorial assistant in 2009. He had been a key member of the film reporting staff since 2010.
“Justin Kroll is one of the most dogged and well-connected reporters I’ve ever known,” said Cynthia Littleton,...
Kroll will cover all aspects of the film industry for Deadline, which is a corporate sibling of Variety under parent company Pmc. He will segue to Deadline as of July 20, reporting to Mike Fleming, co-editor-in-chief.
“Justin has humbled me often enough with his scoops. I’m delighted to have him join us here at Deadline,” said Mike Fleming, who is co-editor-in-chief of Deadline with Nellie Andreeva. “Nellie and I have gotten to know him a bit and he’ll be a strong addition to our team.”
Kroll has been with Variety since early 2008. He started out as an intern and was upped to editorial assistant in 2009. He had been a key member of the film reporting staff since 2010.
“Justin Kroll is one of the most dogged and well-connected reporters I’ve ever known,” said Cynthia Littleton,...
- 6/29/2020
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
In the midst of nationwide protests sparked by the death of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police, TV networks have begun to reconsider the purpose of police-centric shows in their programming.
“Cops” and “Live Pd” have been canceled as a result of the ongoing conversation concerning police brutality and racial injustice, but what about cop dramas and comedies, such as ABC’s “The Rookie” and Fox’s “9-1-1”?
This question was a focal point in a roundtable discussion with TV chiefs at Variety‘s Virtual TV Festival on Wednesday. President of ABC Entertainment Karey Burke, president of Fox Entertainment Michael Thorn, president of OWN Tina Perry and Univision president of entertainment and chief marketing officer Jessica Rodriguez all shared their thoughts on the representation of police on TV in conversation with Variety‘s Cynthia Littleton.
“I don’t know how you look at a police show and ignore [racial injustice],” Thorn said.
“Cops” and “Live Pd” have been canceled as a result of the ongoing conversation concerning police brutality and racial injustice, but what about cop dramas and comedies, such as ABC’s “The Rookie” and Fox’s “9-1-1”?
This question was a focal point in a roundtable discussion with TV chiefs at Variety‘s Virtual TV Festival on Wednesday. President of ABC Entertainment Karey Burke, president of Fox Entertainment Michael Thorn, president of OWN Tina Perry and Univision president of entertainment and chief marketing officer Jessica Rodriguez all shared their thoughts on the representation of police on TV in conversation with Variety‘s Cynthia Littleton.
“I don’t know how you look at a police show and ignore [racial injustice],” Thorn said.
- 6/28/2020
- by Ellise Shafer
- Variety Film + TV
“Homeland” stars and executive producers Claire Danes, Mandy Patinkin, Alex Gansa, Howard Gordon and Lesli Linka Glatter will participate in an exclusive Q&a and series finale screening of “Homeland” on July 10 at 2 p.m. Pt/5 p.m. Et in the “Variety Streaming Room.” The conversation will be moderated by Variety business editor Cynthia Littleton.
During the conversation presented by the United Service Organizations, active duty service members from bases around the world will join to ask questions directly to the panelists.
Recently, Uso launched the military virtual programming series to provide talent engagement for troops and military families during the Covid-19 crisis and beyond. Since April 1, Uso’s entertainment division has hosted 30 virtual engagements across 24 countries, and 37 states and territories.
“The Uso is pleased to partner with Variety to bring this exclusive opportunity for the cast and writers of ‘Homeland’ to celebrate the ending of an epic series with the military community,...
During the conversation presented by the United Service Organizations, active duty service members from bases around the world will join to ask questions directly to the panelists.
Recently, Uso launched the military virtual programming series to provide talent engagement for troops and military families during the Covid-19 crisis and beyond. Since April 1, Uso’s entertainment division has hosted 30 virtual engagements across 24 countries, and 37 states and territories.
“The Uso is pleased to partner with Variety to bring this exclusive opportunity for the cast and writers of ‘Homeland’ to celebrate the ending of an epic series with the military community,...
- 6/26/2020
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
Ava DuVernay, Sarah Bremner, and Paul Garnes of Array Filmworks joined the Variety Virtual TV Fest on Wednesday, detailing how they have used Array as a means to develop and nurture new talent.
“‘Queen Sugar’ is a very special show to us because it was kind of the TV moment that launched this conversation on, ‘Hey, we need to build a longterm crew to tell a story about a family in Southern Louisiana,'” Garnes told Variety business editor Cynthia Littleton. “And one of the key things that we found over the years is the more we can infuse the crew with storytellers, people who have a point of view, people who can contribute to that process, the more robust that storytelling is in the long run.”
DuVernay has become passionate about TV in the past few years, saying “That’s where the best stories are happening.” However, despite being an accomplished feature director,...
“‘Queen Sugar’ is a very special show to us because it was kind of the TV moment that launched this conversation on, ‘Hey, we need to build a longterm crew to tell a story about a family in Southern Louisiana,'” Garnes told Variety business editor Cynthia Littleton. “And one of the key things that we found over the years is the more we can infuse the crew with storytellers, people who have a point of view, people who can contribute to that process, the more robust that storytelling is in the long run.”
DuVernay has become passionate about TV in the past few years, saying “That’s where the best stories are happening.” However, despite being an accomplished feature director,...
- 6/24/2020
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
For all involved in the making of HBO limited series “I Know This Much Is True,” one word continues to come up when describing the filming process: generosity.
This was the word of the hour during the Variety Streaming Room Q&a with writer, director and executive producer Derek Cianfrance, executive producer and star Mark Ruffalo and cast members Kathryn Hahn, Rosie O’Donnell, John Procaccino, Philip Ettinger and Archie Panjabi.
“I don’t think there was a cast member or a crew member that didn’t give everything of themselves. It’s their complete heart, soul, mind, spirit, body, health, everything,” Cianfrance said.
Based on the 1998 novel of the same name by Wally Lamb, “I Know This Much Is True” follows identical twin brothers, Dominick and Thomas Birdsey, the latter of which is a paranoid schizophrenic who has been in and out of mental hospitals for most of his adult life.
This was the word of the hour during the Variety Streaming Room Q&a with writer, director and executive producer Derek Cianfrance, executive producer and star Mark Ruffalo and cast members Kathryn Hahn, Rosie O’Donnell, John Procaccino, Philip Ettinger and Archie Panjabi.
“I don’t think there was a cast member or a crew member that didn’t give everything of themselves. It’s their complete heart, soul, mind, spirit, body, health, everything,” Cianfrance said.
Based on the 1998 novel of the same name by Wally Lamb, “I Know This Much Is True” follows identical twin brothers, Dominick and Thomas Birdsey, the latter of which is a paranoid schizophrenic who has been in and out of mental hospitals for most of his adult life.
- 6/18/2020
- by Ellise Shafer
- Variety Film + TV
Breaking: Claudia Eller, editor-in-chief of our sister publication Variety, will take a two month administrative leave after making an angry social media outburst in a heated moment.
This came after Eller wrote an article lamenting that Variety did not have enough diversity in its staff, and vowed to work to change things. She was challenged on social media and responded to a former employee at a rival trade, Piya Sinha-Roy, who is of South Asian descent. Eller called the woman “bitter,” leading to a continued heated exchange. After a meeting between Eller, Pmc and Variety staffers who were offended by the back and forth, it was mutually decided it would be best for Eller to take some time away to consider her actions.
While Eller is doing that, Cynthia Littleton will step in as interim editor. Littleton had been co-editor-in-chief along with Eller and Andrew Wallenstein, before stepping away from...
This came after Eller wrote an article lamenting that Variety did not have enough diversity in its staff, and vowed to work to change things. She was challenged on social media and responded to a former employee at a rival trade, Piya Sinha-Roy, who is of South Asian descent. Eller called the woman “bitter,” leading to a continued heated exchange. After a meeting between Eller, Pmc and Variety staffers who were offended by the back and forth, it was mutually decided it would be best for Eller to take some time away to consider her actions.
While Eller is doing that, Cynthia Littleton will step in as interim editor. Littleton had been co-editor-in-chief along with Eller and Andrew Wallenstein, before stepping away from...
- 6/5/2020
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
I had to go to Minneapolis. I needed to be right there on 38th Street and Chicago where George Floyd’s life was tragically stolen from him. I needed to see the people in that community — how much love they had for their community and their people and how much pain this has caused. We feel the pain go across the world — the anger and the hurt. Those visuals will never be removed from our minds.
We’re in the middle of a pandemic and instead of coming closer together and operating as one humanity, people go within and want to protect the focus on an old mind-sets of classism and racism. This doesn’t have to exist anymore. People are searching for a new normal. I don’t want to go back to our old normal — clearly that was killing us on many levels.
What we need is a new normal,...
We’re in the middle of a pandemic and instead of coming closer together and operating as one humanity, people go within and want to protect the focus on an old mind-sets of classism and racism. This doesn’t have to exist anymore. People are searching for a new normal. I don’t want to go back to our old normal — clearly that was killing us on many levels.
What we need is a new normal,...
- 5/31/2020
- by Nick Cannon
- Variety Film + TV
HBO Max makes its much-anticipated debut on Wednesday as a $4 billion bet by AT&T and WarnerMedia to vault into the global streaming TV marketplace.
For WarnerMedia insiders, launch day is “really is just the beginning,” Bob Greenblatt, chairman of WarnerMedia Entertainment and Direct to Consumer, tells Variety podcast “Strictly Business.”
WarnerMedia plans to integrate new programming features and technical elements every six to eight weeks in the early months as the service finds its sea legs and inevitably has bugs to work out. “Everyone is working around the clock,” Greenblatt said.
A big focus for HBO Max is on offering a well-curated programming menu for users. WarnerMedia executives made a considered decision not to put everything in the library up all at once.
“We’re trying to find new ways for people to navigate through these platforms,” Greenblatt said. “I think we’re all frustrated to some degree with the...
For WarnerMedia insiders, launch day is “really is just the beginning,” Bob Greenblatt, chairman of WarnerMedia Entertainment and Direct to Consumer, tells Variety podcast “Strictly Business.”
WarnerMedia plans to integrate new programming features and technical elements every six to eight weeks in the early months as the service finds its sea legs and inevitably has bugs to work out. “Everyone is working around the clock,” Greenblatt said.
A big focus for HBO Max is on offering a well-curated programming menu for users. WarnerMedia executives made a considered decision not to put everything in the library up all at once.
“We’re trying to find new ways for people to navigate through these platforms,” Greenblatt said. “I think we’re all frustrated to some degree with the...
- 5/27/2020
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
Taping of the “Friends” reunion special for HBO Max, which had been delayed indefinitely due to the coronavirus-induced shutdown of all television and film production, will potentially be completed by the end of the summer, said WarnerMedia Entertainment and Direct-to-Consumer chairman Bob Greenblatt during the Nab Show Executive Leadership Summit, produced in partnership with the Variety Streaming Room. The hotly anticipated reunion of the six “Friends” cast members was originally slated to be available on the WarnerMedia-backed streaming service at launch on May 27.
“At first we thought, shows will be delayed for a month or two at the most, and now it seems like it’s going to be far longer than that,” Greenblatt told Variety‘s Cynthia Littleton on Monday. “We’re holding out for being able to get this special done hopefully by the end of the summer, if the stars align and hopefully we can get back into production.
“At first we thought, shows will be delayed for a month or two at the most, and now it seems like it’s going to be far longer than that,” Greenblatt told Variety‘s Cynthia Littleton on Monday. “We’re holding out for being able to get this special done hopefully by the end of the summer, if the stars align and hopefully we can get back into production.
- 5/11/2020
- by Elaine Low
- Variety Film + TV
Sinclair Broadcast Group agreed on Wednesday to pay a record $48 million fine to resolve a series of allegations with the Federal Communications Communication.
The FCC announced that the agreement will end three investigations into the broadcaster, including charges that it failed to disclose the sponsor of paid content, and that it misled the FCC during its failed merger with Tribune Media.
In a statement, FCC Chairman Ajit Pai called Sinclair’s conduct “completely unacceptable” and said the fine should serve as a warning to others.
“On the other hand,” he continued, “I disagree with those who, for transparently political reasons, demand that we revoke Sinclair’s licenses. While they don’t like what they perceive to be the broadcaster’s viewpoints, the First Amendment still applies around here.”
Sinclair’s CEO, Chris Ripley, said in a statement on Wednesday that the company was “pleased with the resolution announced today by...
The FCC announced that the agreement will end three investigations into the broadcaster, including charges that it failed to disclose the sponsor of paid content, and that it misled the FCC during its failed merger with Tribune Media.
In a statement, FCC Chairman Ajit Pai called Sinclair’s conduct “completely unacceptable” and said the fine should serve as a warning to others.
“On the other hand,” he continued, “I disagree with those who, for transparently political reasons, demand that we revoke Sinclair’s licenses. While they don’t like what they perceive to be the broadcaster’s viewpoints, the First Amendment still applies around here.”
Sinclair’s CEO, Chris Ripley, said in a statement on Wednesday that the company was “pleased with the resolution announced today by...
- 5/6/2020
- by Gene Maddaus
- Variety Film + TV
Spoiler Alert: Do not read if you have not seen “The New Decas,” the season 5 premiere of Showtime’s “Billions.”
Can the group of hardcore characters who fuel the “Billions” universe overcome their baser instincts to find success and happiness? These are the broad themes of the fifth season of “Billions,” Showtime’s twisty-turny drama series set against the backdrop of New York’s investment and high-finance community.
Brian Koppelman and David Levien, series co-creators and showrunners, join the Variety After Show, presented by National Geographic, to break down the season premiere and offer some insights about the rest of the season ahead. The opener, “The New Decas,” was penned by Koppelman and Levien and directed by Matthew McLoota.
In the Q&a with Variety business editor Cynthia Littleton, Koppelman notes that the challenge of steering a new season is always to take the characters to new places while continuing the overarching storylines.
Can the group of hardcore characters who fuel the “Billions” universe overcome their baser instincts to find success and happiness? These are the broad themes of the fifth season of “Billions,” Showtime’s twisty-turny drama series set against the backdrop of New York’s investment and high-finance community.
Brian Koppelman and David Levien, series co-creators and showrunners, join the Variety After Show, presented by National Geographic, to break down the season premiere and offer some insights about the rest of the season ahead. The opener, “The New Decas,” was penned by Koppelman and Levien and directed by Matthew McLoota.
In the Q&a with Variety business editor Cynthia Littleton, Koppelman notes that the challenge of steering a new season is always to take the characters to new places while continuing the overarching storylines.
- 5/4/2020
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
Desus and Mero have a message for anyone who played for the NBA in the 1990s: You have a standing invitation to be a guest on the duo’s late-night series on Showtime.
The hosts of “Desus and Mero” joined Variety this week for a live webcast interview that touched on everything from ESPN’s buzzy docu-series “The Last Dance” to how the pair are dealing with fame and adjusting to hosting the twice-weekly show from their homes.
Desus, aka Daniel Baker, and the Kid Mero, aka Joel Martinez, agreed that doing the show that revolves around the two riffing on headlines and trending pop culture topics is a form of therapy for the hosts and fans, especially in these troubled times.
“We’re like a human stress ball,” said Mero. “If you’re stressed out about things happening in the world, put it on and let it go.”
Desus...
The hosts of “Desus and Mero” joined Variety this week for a live webcast interview that touched on everything from ESPN’s buzzy docu-series “The Last Dance” to how the pair are dealing with fame and adjusting to hosting the twice-weekly show from their homes.
Desus, aka Daniel Baker, and the Kid Mero, aka Joel Martinez, agreed that doing the show that revolves around the two riffing on headlines and trending pop culture topics is a form of therapy for the hosts and fans, especially in these troubled times.
“We’re like a human stress ball,” said Mero. “If you’re stressed out about things happening in the world, put it on and let it go.”
Desus...
- 5/1/2020
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
People are eager to return to the old normal, and the fate of awards shows is not the top priority, but it is a concern. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences on April 28 addressed the question of eligibility in a time of coronavirus, and the Hollywood Foreign Press Assn. did the same. But the question remains about the fate of ceremonies, no matter when the world opens up again.
In the history of major awards, no show was ever cancelled, but adjustments were occasionally needed. To paraphrase Tolstoy, happy kudocasts are all alike; every crisis-stricken award show is stricken in its own way.
Nobody expects a dramatic change in the upcoming kudocasts. But as Monty Python reminded us, nobody expected the Spanish Inquisition either. Here are some past examples of how people adjusted.
Emmys
The award for the most beleaguered ceremony goes to the 53rd annual Emmys. It was scheduled for Sept.
In the history of major awards, no show was ever cancelled, but adjustments were occasionally needed. To paraphrase Tolstoy, happy kudocasts are all alike; every crisis-stricken award show is stricken in its own way.
Nobody expects a dramatic change in the upcoming kudocasts. But as Monty Python reminded us, nobody expected the Spanish Inquisition either. Here are some past examples of how people adjusted.
Emmys
The award for the most beleaguered ceremony goes to the 53rd annual Emmys. It was scheduled for Sept.
- 5/1/2020
- by Tim Gray
- Variety Film + TV
Matthew Belloni resigned as editorial director of The Hollywood Reporter due to intense conflicts with Modi Wiczyk and Asif Satchu, the co-CEOs of the trade’s owners, Valence Media, over their attempts to meddle with the publication’s editorial independence.
Valence had been trying to convince Belloni to give them a head’s up about stories that negatively impact their business interests, according to a knowledgable insider. There was also a growing frustration at Valence’s attempts to use the publication to push projects that it had invested in or backed. Valence owns Dick Clark Productions, Billboard and Media Rights Capital, making its constellation of business partnerships both tangled and expansive. Billboard-The Hollywood Reporter Media Group president Deanna Brown also reportedly pushed Belloni to dial back on coverage that was snarky or harder hitting. In a memo to staff, Belloni alluded to tensions with the publication’s ownership even as he called his exit “100% amicable.
Valence had been trying to convince Belloni to give them a head’s up about stories that negatively impact their business interests, according to a knowledgable insider. There was also a growing frustration at Valence’s attempts to use the publication to push projects that it had invested in or backed. Valence owns Dick Clark Productions, Billboard and Media Rights Capital, making its constellation of business partnerships both tangled and expansive. Billboard-The Hollywood Reporter Media Group president Deanna Brown also reportedly pushed Belloni to dial back on coverage that was snarky or harder hitting. In a memo to staff, Belloni alluded to tensions with the publication’s ownership even as he called his exit “100% amicable.
- 4/6/2020
- by Brent Lang and Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Kevin Hart declared that he plans to become a media mogul. Richard Plepler promised that the premium subscription TV business is not a zero-sum game. Dana Walden explained why she took the big TV gig at Disney. Dawn Ostroff spoke about the humbling process of learning how to produce for digital platforms after a long career in TV.
Conversations with those industry A-listers and dozens more have been featured on “Strictly Business,” Variety‘s weekly podcast that is marking its 100th installment with a retrospective episode featuring highlights from the past two years. The interview-driven podcast that debuted on April 3, 2018, is hosted by Variety business editor Cynthia Littleton and Variety co-editor-in-chief Andrew Wallenstein.
“Strictly Business” casts a wide net across media and entertainment, sitting down with power players and specialists who can provide insights about seismic shifts in the marketplace amid the haze of disruption and consolidation.
Interview subjects have...
Conversations with those industry A-listers and dozens more have been featured on “Strictly Business,” Variety‘s weekly podcast that is marking its 100th installment with a retrospective episode featuring highlights from the past two years. The interview-driven podcast that debuted on April 3, 2018, is hosted by Variety business editor Cynthia Littleton and Variety co-editor-in-chief Andrew Wallenstein.
“Strictly Business” casts a wide net across media and entertainment, sitting down with power players and specialists who can provide insights about seismic shifts in the marketplace amid the haze of disruption and consolidation.
Interview subjects have...
- 3/4/2020
- by Variety Staff
- Variety Film + TV
Europe’s coronavirus outbreak is causing major headaches for the international TV industry as numerous companies move swiftly to rein in foreign travel and cancel crucial pitch events and company gatherings.
The outbreak, which has so far claimed 56 deaths in Europe, comes at a particularly frenetic time for the local TV industry, which holds a number of internal conferences and external pitching events alongside a raft of spring festivals and markets, such as France’s Series Mania, MipTV and Canneseries.
The vast majority of international studios and super-indie groups are now closely monitoring the coronavirus outbreak, with WarnerMedia, Sony and NBCUniversal going a step further to instate travel bans.
In a statement Tuesday, WarnerMedia told Variety: “To help maintain the ongoing health and safety of our employees, WarnerMedia has suspended international travel (continent to continent) and is limiting in-country travel.”
The company added that it will “continue to monitor developments,...
The outbreak, which has so far claimed 56 deaths in Europe, comes at a particularly frenetic time for the local TV industry, which holds a number of internal conferences and external pitching events alongside a raft of spring festivals and markets, such as France’s Series Mania, MipTV and Canneseries.
The vast majority of international studios and super-indie groups are now closely monitoring the coronavirus outbreak, with WarnerMedia, Sony and NBCUniversal going a step further to instate travel bans.
In a statement Tuesday, WarnerMedia told Variety: “To help maintain the ongoing health and safety of our employees, WarnerMedia has suspended international travel (continent to continent) and is limiting in-country travel.”
The company added that it will “continue to monitor developments,...
- 3/3/2020
- by Manori Ravindran and Leo Barraclough
- Variety Film + TV
WarnerMedia Entertainment chairman Robert Greenblatt will deliver the keynote conversation at the 2020 Nab Show Executive Leadership Summit on April 19 at the Encore at Wynn Las Vegas.
Greenblatt will participate in a Q&a with Variety business editor Cynthia Littleton to discuss opportunities for WarnerMedia and upcoming plans for its newly aligned sister companies HBO, TNT, TBS, truTV, Otter Media and the upcoming streaming service HBO Max, which is set to launch in May.
Greenblatt serves as the chairman of WarnerMedia Entertainment and Direct-to-Consumer, a new division of WarnerMedia comprised of these aforementioned sister companies.
Nab Show is produced by the National Association of Broadcasters. The media, entertainment and technology convention will be held from April 18 to April 22.
Greenblatt will participate in a Q&a with Variety business editor Cynthia Littleton to discuss opportunities for WarnerMedia and upcoming plans for its newly aligned sister companies HBO, TNT, TBS, truTV, Otter Media and the upcoming streaming service HBO Max, which is set to launch in May.
Greenblatt serves as the chairman of WarnerMedia Entertainment and Direct-to-Consumer, a new division of WarnerMedia comprised of these aforementioned sister companies.
Nab Show is produced by the National Association of Broadcasters. The media, entertainment and technology convention will be held from April 18 to April 22.
- 2/13/2020
- by J. Kim Murphy
- Variety Film + TV
IMDb.com, Inc. takes no responsibility for the content or accuracy of the above news articles, Tweets, or blog posts. This content is published for the entertainment of our users only. The news articles, Tweets, and blog posts do not represent IMDb's opinions nor can we guarantee that the reporting therein is completely factual. Please visit the source responsible for the item in question to report any concerns you may have regarding content or accuracy.