Pete Davidson’s semi-autobiographical series Bupkis is ending its story early. Last year, Peacock announced that the show would return for an even bigger and even better second season. But the comedian has already outgrown it, announcing that he no longer plans to continue Bupkis beyond its eight-episode first season.
“I do also feel that this part of my life is finished,” Davidson shared in a statement via Variety. “I’m very excited for this next chapter and for you guys to see the work. Thank you to all who...
“I do also feel that this part of my life is finished,” Davidson shared in a statement via Variety. “I’m very excited for this next chapter and for you guys to see the work. Thank you to all who...
- 3/21/2024
- by Larisha Paul
- Rollingstone.com
The past three years have severely impacted the broadcast television landscape.
Following a decade of growth — remember the days of 100 pilots? — the TV landscape on broadcast is experiencing further contraction because of production delays caused by both the pandemic and Hollywood’s historic dual strikes in 2023. The result is fewer pilots, a shift to year-round development and now fewer scripted originals as networks bulk up on unscripted fare, cut costs and continue to see development money shifted toward streaming.
On the leadership front, Frances Berwick now has lone oversight of NBC after Susan Rovner was let go from NBCUniversal as part of a larger restructuring, with ABC (Craig Erwich), CBS (Amy Reisenbach), The CW (Brad Schwartz) and Fox (Rob Wade) continuing with their current executives.
The biggest shift in broadcast is the shortened 2023-24 seasons of scripted fare, production on which was delayed from the traditional summer start to the...
Following a decade of growth — remember the days of 100 pilots? — the TV landscape on broadcast is experiencing further contraction because of production delays caused by both the pandemic and Hollywood’s historic dual strikes in 2023. The result is fewer pilots, a shift to year-round development and now fewer scripted originals as networks bulk up on unscripted fare, cut costs and continue to see development money shifted toward streaming.
On the leadership front, Frances Berwick now has lone oversight of NBC after Susan Rovner was let go from NBCUniversal as part of a larger restructuring, with ABC (Craig Erwich), CBS (Amy Reisenbach), The CW (Brad Schwartz) and Fox (Rob Wade) continuing with their current executives.
The biggest shift in broadcast is the shortened 2023-24 seasons of scripted fare, production on which was delayed from the traditional summer start to the...
- 2/8/2024
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Fourteen and a half months have gone by since it was announced that original Friday the 13th screenwriter Victor Miller – fresh off winning the U.S. copyright to the 1980 film after a lawsuit that stretched on for years – was teaming up with his lawyer Marc Toberoff, franchise rights holder Rob Barsamian, production company A24, the Peacock streaming service, and showrunner Bryan Fuller (whose credits include Hannibal and Pushing Daisies) to develop a new Friday the 13th streaming series called Crystal Lake. There haven’t been many updates since then… which isn’t surprising to fans of the Friday the 13th franchise, because we’ve gotten used to not getting any new content. But Crystal Lake might actually make it into production soon! Fridaythe13thFranchise.com reports that the show was once expected to start filming in March of 2024, but due to the writers and actors strikes that brought most projects...
- 1/16/2024
- by Cody Hamman
- JoBlo.com
Amid Israel’s ongoing war with Hamas, Jewish entertainment figures have come together to issue an open letter to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences criticizing their exclusion from being specified as an underrepresented group.
“An inclusion effort that excludes Jews is both steeped in and misunderstands antisemitism,” reads the letter, organized by the group Jew in the City’s Hollywood Bureau for Jewish Representation. “Jewish people being excluded from the Motion Picture Academy’s Representation and Inclusion Standards is discriminating against a protected class by invalidating their historic and genetic identity.”
The Academy’s standards, unveiled in 2020 as part of its Aperture 2025 diversity initiative, describes a number of identities that it considers “underrepresented groups”: women, LGBTQ+, having cognitive or physical difficulties or being deaf or hard of hearing, as well as underrepresented racial or ethnic groups. The standards, which ask productions to submit self-identifying demographic information...
“An inclusion effort that excludes Jews is both steeped in and misunderstands antisemitism,” reads the letter, organized by the group Jew in the City’s Hollywood Bureau for Jewish Representation. “Jewish people being excluded from the Motion Picture Academy’s Representation and Inclusion Standards is discriminating against a protected class by invalidating their historic and genetic identity.”
The Academy’s standards, unveiled in 2020 as part of its Aperture 2025 diversity initiative, describes a number of identities that it considers “underrepresented groups”: women, LGBTQ+, having cognitive or physical difficulties or being deaf or hard of hearing, as well as underrepresented racial or ethnic groups. The standards, which ask productions to submit self-identifying demographic information...
- 1/9/2024
- by Rebecca Sun
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The more things change, the more things stay the same.
That may as well be the motto for the five broadcast networks heading into the 2023-24 season as their corporate parents are increasingly focused on cutting costs, restructurings and streaming. To that end, three of the five networks have made leadership changes in the past year.
The biggest change comes at The CW, which is now majority controlled by Nexstar with former Pop topper Brad Schwartz now tasked with making the younger-skewing network profitable for the first time following the unexpected departure of TV’s longest-tenured president, Mark Pedowitz. Over at CBS, Kelly Kahl and his top lieutenant Thom Sherman and their sizable paydays were bounced in favor of former head of current Amy Reisenbach. Over at Fox, Charlie Collier — who led the network following the sale of its studio counterpart — bailed for Roku with the broadcaster tapping unscripted chief...
That may as well be the motto for the five broadcast networks heading into the 2023-24 season as their corporate parents are increasingly focused on cutting costs, restructurings and streaming. To that end, three of the five networks have made leadership changes in the past year.
The biggest change comes at The CW, which is now majority controlled by Nexstar with former Pop topper Brad Schwartz now tasked with making the younger-skewing network profitable for the first time following the unexpected departure of TV’s longest-tenured president, Mark Pedowitz. Over at CBS, Kelly Kahl and his top lieutenant Thom Sherman and their sizable paydays were bounced in favor of former head of current Amy Reisenbach. Over at Fox, Charlie Collier — who led the network following the sale of its studio counterpart — bailed for Roku with the broadcaster tapping unscripted chief...
- 12/8/2023
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Alarmed by the Israel-Hamas war and a rising tide of hate directed at Jews, prominent entertainment industry creatives and executives have formed a nonprofit organization devoted to combatting antisemitism.
The Entertainment Alliance to Fight Antisemitism has come together in the past few weeks following the Oct. 7 Hamas terror attacks in Israel and the shocking rise in antisemitic incidents in the U.S. Nearly 2,000 members of the creative community have signed a pledge that condemns discrimination and affirms Israel’s right to exist.
“Just as we have bonded together to fight other forms of hatred and bigotry, we stand united in our pledge to fight antisemitism wherever it appears. We have seen what happens when unbridled Jew-hatred goes unchecked. We pledge to not let that happen on our watch,” the pledge reads in part.
Among the members and organizers of the Eafa are showrunners Howard Gordon and Hank Steinberg and director Kimberly Peirce.
The Entertainment Alliance to Fight Antisemitism has come together in the past few weeks following the Oct. 7 Hamas terror attacks in Israel and the shocking rise in antisemitic incidents in the U.S. Nearly 2,000 members of the creative community have signed a pledge that condemns discrimination and affirms Israel’s right to exist.
“Just as we have bonded together to fight other forms of hatred and bigotry, we stand united in our pledge to fight antisemitism wherever it appears. We have seen what happens when unbridled Jew-hatred goes unchecked. We pledge to not let that happen on our watch,” the pledge reads in part.
Among the members and organizers of the Eafa are showrunners Howard Gordon and Hank Steinberg and director Kimberly Peirce.
- 11/17/2023
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
NBCUniversal’s chief content officer Donna Langley shared her fear that the extended SAG-AFTRA strike might result in a lack of movie releases during summer 2024, which could have a “lasting impact” on the industry.
“One of the reasons why I’m so focused on doing my part and our company’s part in bringing resolution to the strike is that… the films that had to shut down as a result of this fight need to be finished by a certain period of time for next summer,” Langley said at Bloomberg Screentime conference in Los Angeles on Wednesday. “I’m not relishing the thought of a summer or a season without [a] volume of films.”
“If I learned anything during Covid [it] was the lack of volume — it really does impact the movie going cadence,” Langley continued. “We were just seeing recovery from that in 2023… [and] if we lose that, that’s going to...
“One of the reasons why I’m so focused on doing my part and our company’s part in bringing resolution to the strike is that… the films that had to shut down as a result of this fight need to be finished by a certain period of time for next summer,” Langley said at Bloomberg Screentime conference in Los Angeles on Wednesday. “I’m not relishing the thought of a summer or a season without [a] volume of films.”
“If I learned anything during Covid [it] was the lack of volume — it really does impact the movie going cadence,” Langley continued. “We were just seeing recovery from that in 2023… [and] if we lose that, that’s going to...
- 10/12/2023
- by Loree Seitz
- The Wrap
NBCUniversal has found its permanent lifestyle and documentary chief.
Rachel Smith has been promoted to EVP, Unscripted Content, Lifestyle & Documentaries. She replaces Rod Aissa, who left in June.
Smith has been doing the role on an interim basis since Aissa’s departure. It took a moment after the restructure that saw Donna Langley promoted to oversee the television side in addition to the film division that led to the departure of Susan Rovner, who had been figuring out whether to hand Smith the role on a permanent basis or start an outside search.
She will work closely with Corie Henson, EVP, Entertainment Unscripted Content who oversees competition and game shows.
Smith now reports to Frances Berwick, Chairman, NBCUniversal Entertainment.
She will oversee lifestyle, true crime, documentary and docuseries content development and current programming across NBCU’s entertainment portfolio, which includes NBC, Bravo, E!, Oxygen True Crime, Syfy, Universal Kids, USA Network and Peacock.
Rachel Smith has been promoted to EVP, Unscripted Content, Lifestyle & Documentaries. She replaces Rod Aissa, who left in June.
Smith has been doing the role on an interim basis since Aissa’s departure. It took a moment after the restructure that saw Donna Langley promoted to oversee the television side in addition to the film division that led to the departure of Susan Rovner, who had been figuring out whether to hand Smith the role on a permanent basis or start an outside search.
She will work closely with Corie Henson, EVP, Entertainment Unscripted Content who oversees competition and game shows.
Smith now reports to Frances Berwick, Chairman, NBCUniversal Entertainment.
She will oversee lifestyle, true crime, documentary and docuseries content development and current programming across NBCU’s entertainment portfolio, which includes NBC, Bravo, E!, Oxygen True Crime, Syfy, Universal Kids, USA Network and Peacock.
- 9/28/2023
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Reality television is beloved for its unhinged characters and crazy on-screen behavior.
But behind the scenes, producers ensure that the production process is as dutiful as it can be.
Deadline understands that NBCUniversal is now looking to update and bolster its workplace conduct guidelines for these productions.
The company, which is behind unscripted hits such as The Real Housewives franchise, Below Deck, Vanderpump Rules and competition series such as The Traitors and America’s Got Talent, is now increasing its requirements around anti-discrimination and harassment policies, making an inclusive workplace and channels to report concerns and violations.
We hear that Frances Berwick, Chairman, NBCUniversal Entertainment, has just sent a note out to external production companies to inform them of the changes and Deadline has obtained a copy of the note.
The first point of the note highlights alcohol.
“Building on our current protocols, we will require that you deliver an...
But behind the scenes, producers ensure that the production process is as dutiful as it can be.
Deadline understands that NBCUniversal is now looking to update and bolster its workplace conduct guidelines for these productions.
The company, which is behind unscripted hits such as The Real Housewives franchise, Below Deck, Vanderpump Rules and competition series such as The Traitors and America’s Got Talent, is now increasing its requirements around anti-discrimination and harassment policies, making an inclusive workplace and channels to report concerns and violations.
We hear that Frances Berwick, Chairman, NBCUniversal Entertainment, has just sent a note out to external production companies to inform them of the changes and Deadline has obtained a copy of the note.
The first point of the note highlights alcohol.
“Building on our current protocols, we will require that you deliver an...
- 9/22/2023
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Bumper Allen's exploits in Berlin won't be charted on-screen again.
Peacock has canceled Pitch Perfect: Bumper in Berlin, reversing the Season 2 renewal the show landed in January.
Deadline first reported the news, revealing that it was in relation to the ongoing WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes.
The series joins Prime Video's A League of Their Own and The Peripheral as strike casualties.
At the time of its renewal in January, Peacock claimed the show was watched by more subscribers in its launch weekend than any other original comedy at the time.
"We knew fans of the Pitch Perfect franchise were going to sing the praises of Bumper in Berlin and enjoy seeing a new side of Adam Devine's character," said Susan Rovner, then-Chairman, Entertainment Content, NBCUniversal Television and Streaming.
"Along with our partners at Utv, Megan Amram, Elizabeth Banks and Max Handelman crafted an incredibly unique and charming story with new takes on iconic songs.
Peacock has canceled Pitch Perfect: Bumper in Berlin, reversing the Season 2 renewal the show landed in January.
Deadline first reported the news, revealing that it was in relation to the ongoing WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes.
The series joins Prime Video's A League of Their Own and The Peripheral as strike casualties.
At the time of its renewal in January, Peacock claimed the show was watched by more subscribers in its launch weekend than any other original comedy at the time.
"We knew fans of the Pitch Perfect franchise were going to sing the praises of Bumper in Berlin and enjoy seeing a new side of Adam Devine's character," said Susan Rovner, then-Chairman, Entertainment Content, NBCUniversal Television and Streaming.
"Along with our partners at Utv, Megan Amram, Elizabeth Banks and Max Handelman crafted an incredibly unique and charming story with new takes on iconic songs.
- 9/22/2023
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
Spoiler Alert! This post contains details from the extended version of the series finale of Riverdale.
The sun has set on The CW’s Riverdale after seven seasons.
The nostalgic final episode, aptly titled “Goodbye, Riverdale,” payed homage not only to the characters that audiences have watched fight crime, unravel conspiracy theories, travel to parallel universes, and more — but also to the people behind the scenes who brought the show to life in the first place.
While it won’t air in the broadcast version, an extended cut of the finale includes another cameo from former Warner Bros. TV chief Peter Roth, whom the series’ creators credit as one of the champions of the Archie comic adaptation from the early days.
“It was Roberto’s idea to have Peter Roth play a studio exec on Riverdale. When the writers talked about having a studio exec mentor Veronica, Roberto thought it...
The sun has set on The CW’s Riverdale after seven seasons.
The nostalgic final episode, aptly titled “Goodbye, Riverdale,” payed homage not only to the characters that audiences have watched fight crime, unravel conspiracy theories, travel to parallel universes, and more — but also to the people behind the scenes who brought the show to life in the first place.
While it won’t air in the broadcast version, an extended cut of the finale includes another cameo from former Warner Bros. TV chief Peter Roth, whom the series’ creators credit as one of the champions of the Archie comic adaptation from the early days.
“It was Roberto’s idea to have Peter Roth play a studio exec on Riverdale. When the writers talked about having a studio exec mentor Veronica, Roberto thought it...
- 8/24/2023
- by Katie Campione
- Deadline Film + TV
Comcast president Mike Cavanagh addressed the ongoing SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes during the NBCUniversal parent company’s second quarter earnings call Thursday.
“We are committed to reaching a fair deal with the guilds as soon as possible,” Cavanagh said. “Beyond that, for all involved in the industry, broadly, a prolonged work stoppage and the longer it goes, the worse it’ll be. It is obviously going to have a negative impact all around.”
The WGA work stoppage has been ongoing since May 2, while SAG-AFTRA went on strike July 14.
The strikes have brought scripted film and TV production to a standstill across Hollywood as the actors and writers unions continue picketing against the studios repped by the AMPTP.
“As you look at Peacock, I wouldn’t point out anything in particular related to strikes and its effect in 2023, the second half of the year,” Cavanagh told analysts Thursday. “Obviously, the longer a strike,...
“We are committed to reaching a fair deal with the guilds as soon as possible,” Cavanagh said. “Beyond that, for all involved in the industry, broadly, a prolonged work stoppage and the longer it goes, the worse it’ll be. It is obviously going to have a negative impact all around.”
The WGA work stoppage has been ongoing since May 2, while SAG-AFTRA went on strike July 14.
The strikes have brought scripted film and TV production to a standstill across Hollywood as the actors and writers unions continue picketing against the studios repped by the AMPTP.
“As you look at Peacock, I wouldn’t point out anything in particular related to strikes and its effect in 2023, the second half of the year,” Cavanagh told analysts Thursday. “Obviously, the longer a strike,...
- 7/27/2023
- by Jennifer Maas
- Variety Film + TV
Comcast investors will get a closer look Thursday at Mike Cavanagh and Brian Roberts’ strategy for getting Peacock to profitability and revamping NBCUniversal’s leadership as the cable company reports its second-quarter earnings.
Over the last several months, that strategy has been complicated not only by the existential threat of cord-cutting in the traditional TV business but also the historic double strike by SAG-AFTRA and the Writers Guild of America.
The direct effects of the labor dispute won’t be visible in the quarter’s results, which ended in June before talks between the studios and SAG-AFTRA broke down. But Michael Hodel, Morningstar’s director of equity research for media and telecommunications, anticipates the topic will loom large over the earnings call. It might even help the company’s bottom line, at least in the near term.
“I expect the actors’ and writers’ strikes will be a topic of conversation...
Over the last several months, that strategy has been complicated not only by the existential threat of cord-cutting in the traditional TV business but also the historic double strike by SAG-AFTRA and the Writers Guild of America.
The direct effects of the labor dispute won’t be visible in the quarter’s results, which ended in June before talks between the studios and SAG-AFTRA broke down. But Michael Hodel, Morningstar’s director of equity research for media and telecommunications, anticipates the topic will loom large over the earnings call. It might even help the company’s bottom line, at least in the near term.
“I expect the actors’ and writers’ strikes will be a topic of conversation...
- 7/26/2023
- by Lucas Manfredi
- The Wrap
NBC is keeping broadcast’s scripted hopes alive.
The network will have a slew of original scripted dramas on the air in the fall as part of a slightly revised schedule thanks to some forward planning.
The second half of season five of Magnum P.I, which was originally intended for midseason, will debut in the fall on Wednesday nights, and will be joined by Quantum Leap, new series Found and The Irrational as well as Canadian medical drama Transplant.
It comes as NBC’s rivals largely moved into the unscripted arena for their fall schedules with ABC relying on reality fare, CBS ramping up its competition series and adding some sister shows such as Yellowstone, and Fox sticking with non-scripted and animation.
Deadline understands that Magnum P.I, which is ending with season five, has ten full shot episodes, it has a number of episodes of Quantum Leap, which was renewed in December,...
The network will have a slew of original scripted dramas on the air in the fall as part of a slightly revised schedule thanks to some forward planning.
The second half of season five of Magnum P.I, which was originally intended for midseason, will debut in the fall on Wednesday nights, and will be joined by Quantum Leap, new series Found and The Irrational as well as Canadian medical drama Transplant.
It comes as NBC’s rivals largely moved into the unscripted arena for their fall schedules with ABC relying on reality fare, CBS ramping up its competition series and adding some sister shows such as Yellowstone, and Fox sticking with non-scripted and animation.
Deadline understands that Magnum P.I, which is ending with season five, has ten full shot episodes, it has a number of episodes of Quantum Leap, which was renewed in December,...
- 7/19/2023
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Amblin Partners has struck a new multi-year deal with Universal Pictures, which will provide the Steven Spielberg-led production company with more creative and financial flexibility while continuing to give the NBCUniversal-owned studio first-look status on all of its theatrical film projects.
A person familiar with the matter told TheWrap that Amblin will not be acquired by Universal and instead continue to operate independently under a straight overall deal with Spielberg retaining creative control. The individual added that the move may result in a mix of layoffs and some contracts not being renewed.
“Universal is my ancestral studio home, and this next chapter in our longstanding partnership will provide Amblin with the creative flexibility and autonomy that I know will allow us to succeed together in the future,” Spielberg said in a statement. “I’m eternally grateful to our entire team at Amblin for their work and dedication over the years,...
A person familiar with the matter told TheWrap that Amblin will not be acquired by Universal and instead continue to operate independently under a straight overall deal with Spielberg retaining creative control. The individual added that the move may result in a mix of layoffs and some contracts not being renewed.
“Universal is my ancestral studio home, and this next chapter in our longstanding partnership will provide Amblin with the creative flexibility and autonomy that I know will allow us to succeed together in the future,” Spielberg said in a statement. “I’m eternally grateful to our entire team at Amblin for their work and dedication over the years,...
- 7/11/2023
- by Lucas Manfredi
- The Wrap
Endeavor Group Holdings has taken a minority stake in Velvet Hammer Media, a non-scripted production company co-founded by Jennifer O’Connell and Rebecca Quinn in February.
With a focus on both premium and global formats, Vhm has secured multiple series greenlights with a range of streamers and networks, including “The Big Bakeover” for The CW, Roku’s “Empty Nest Refresh” and others not yet announced. O’Connell and Quinn serve as executive producers on all projects, with Vhm also providing production services.
Vhm also has development deals and projects in the works at Netflix and NBCUniversal, among other platforms. Development executive and producer Nick Alarcon joined Vhm as vice president. Additionally, Vhm has launched an “Inside Access Program,” which aims to hire and develop underrepresented talent behind the camera.
“Over the course of their careers, Jen and Rebecca have developed and produced some of television’s most provocative shows, entertained broad audiences,...
With a focus on both premium and global formats, Vhm has secured multiple series greenlights with a range of streamers and networks, including “The Big Bakeover” for The CW, Roku’s “Empty Nest Refresh” and others not yet announced. O’Connell and Quinn serve as executive producers on all projects, with Vhm also providing production services.
Vhm also has development deals and projects in the works at Netflix and NBCUniversal, among other platforms. Development executive and producer Nick Alarcon joined Vhm as vice president. Additionally, Vhm has launched an “Inside Access Program,” which aims to hire and develop underrepresented talent behind the camera.
“Over the course of their careers, Jen and Rebecca have developed and produced some of television’s most provocative shows, entertained broad audiences,...
- 7/7/2023
- by Lucas Manfredi
- The Wrap
The news Thursday about Universal Filmed Entertainment Group chairman Donna Langley’s ascent to bring TV content under her domain doesn’t just speak to the greater NBCUniversal plan to have a more unified strategy across theatrical, TV and streaming.
It’s also a testament to NBCU realizing and relishing the risk-taking, creative-friendly asset the company has in Langley.
There was talk following NBCUniversal CEO Jeff Shell’s exit over sexual harassment claims that Langley would inherit the post given her billion-dollar-grossing track record at the film studio and as a level-headed balancer of scales in negotiations. Comcast CEO Brian Roberts gave those interim duties to Comcast president Mike Cavanagh, but that wasn’t a means to sideline Langley.
Related: Comcast President Mike Cavanagh Makes His Mark As NBCUniversal Chief With Exec Reorg, Donna Langley’s Dual Film-tv Role
While brass tacks oversee of news, sports and sundry NBCU ops are not her thing,...
It’s also a testament to NBCU realizing and relishing the risk-taking, creative-friendly asset the company has in Langley.
There was talk following NBCUniversal CEO Jeff Shell’s exit over sexual harassment claims that Langley would inherit the post given her billion-dollar-grossing track record at the film studio and as a level-headed balancer of scales in negotiations. Comcast CEO Brian Roberts gave those interim duties to Comcast president Mike Cavanagh, but that wasn’t a means to sideline Langley.
Related: Comcast President Mike Cavanagh Makes His Mark As NBCUniversal Chief With Exec Reorg, Donna Langley’s Dual Film-tv Role
While brass tacks oversee of news, sports and sundry NBCU ops are not her thing,...
- 7/7/2023
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Susan Rovner has praised her colleagues and acknowledged the tough decision to leave after NBCUniversal’s latest restructure was unveiled Thursday.
Rovner, Chairman, Entertainment Content, NBCUniversal Television and Streaming, sent a note to her team (read it in full below).
“I know it’s been quite a day, but I wanted to reach out personally and thank every one of you,” she opened.
She lauded Mark Lazarus, who is now Chairman, NBCUniversal Entertainment, and Frances Berwick, who is now Chairman, NBCUniversal Entertainment, and said that deciding to leave was “extremely difficult.”
“Mark has been a constant advocate for us and a fantastic boss; and I am eternally grateful to Frances for being the best partner – but at the end of the day, I believe this is the right choice both for me personally as well as the future of the business,” she wrote.
Related: NBCUniversal Shake-Up: How Will Donna Langley...
Rovner, Chairman, Entertainment Content, NBCUniversal Television and Streaming, sent a note to her team (read it in full below).
“I know it’s been quite a day, but I wanted to reach out personally and thank every one of you,” she opened.
She lauded Mark Lazarus, who is now Chairman, NBCUniversal Entertainment, and Frances Berwick, who is now Chairman, NBCUniversal Entertainment, and said that deciding to leave was “extremely difficult.”
“Mark has been a constant advocate for us and a fantastic boss; and I am eternally grateful to Frances for being the best partner – but at the end of the day, I believe this is the right choice both for me personally as well as the future of the business,” she wrote.
Related: NBCUniversal Shake-Up: How Will Donna Langley...
- 7/7/2023
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Donna Langley is a dame in waiting no more.
The veteran movie executive, with deep ties to Hollywood filmmakers and a knack for shepherding blockbusters to the screen, ascended to NBCUniversal’s content throne on Thursday, one of the big winners in a sweeping reorganization made by Comcast president Mike Cavanagh, who oversees NBCUniversal.
In her new role as chief content officer, Langley won’t just be overseeing Universal’s slate of films. She will also take ownership of its TV and streaming creative strategy. It’s an elevation that many industry players saw as inevitable – after all, how much longer could the company keep the in-demand executive without expanding her portfolio?
However, that also shortchanges Langley’s talent for C-suite survival, one that’s seen her withstand mergers and sales, as well as a revolving door of leaders and associates such as Ron Meyer, Adam Fogelson and Jeff Shell,...
The veteran movie executive, with deep ties to Hollywood filmmakers and a knack for shepherding blockbusters to the screen, ascended to NBCUniversal’s content throne on Thursday, one of the big winners in a sweeping reorganization made by Comcast president Mike Cavanagh, who oversees NBCUniversal.
In her new role as chief content officer, Langley won’t just be overseeing Universal’s slate of films. She will also take ownership of its TV and streaming creative strategy. It’s an elevation that many industry players saw as inevitable – after all, how much longer could the company keep the in-demand executive without expanding her portfolio?
However, that also shortchanges Langley’s talent for C-suite survival, one that’s seen her withstand mergers and sales, as well as a revolving door of leaders and associates such as Ron Meyer, Adam Fogelson and Jeff Shell,...
- 7/6/2023
- by Matt Donnelly and Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Anyone looking for a sign of Comcast president Mike Cavanagh’s strategy as the recently installed overseer of NBCUniversal got a bright one Thursday.
The seasoned finance exec unveiled a significant revamp of the company’s senior management ranks today. Donna Langley, Mark Lazarus and Cesar Conde headed the list of those gaining promotions, while Susan Rovner, chairman of entertainment content for NBCU television and streaming, was a high-profile exec to exit the company.
Donna Langley
One notable aspect of the new org chart is Langley’s new dual role overseeing both film and TV. At companies of comparable scale to NBCU, the film and TV realms are still generally run separately even though the line between them gets blurrier every day. Amazon, Apple and Netflix have all made moves to unify the management at the very top of the food chain, but traditional media firms still have separate silos.
The seasoned finance exec unveiled a significant revamp of the company’s senior management ranks today. Donna Langley, Mark Lazarus and Cesar Conde headed the list of those gaining promotions, while Susan Rovner, chairman of entertainment content for NBCU television and streaming, was a high-profile exec to exit the company.
Donna Langley
One notable aspect of the new org chart is Langley’s new dual role overseeing both film and TV. At companies of comparable scale to NBCU, the film and TV realms are still generally run separately even though the line between them gets blurrier every day. Amazon, Apple and Netflix have all made moves to unify the management at the very top of the food chain, but traditional media firms still have separate silos.
- 7/6/2023
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
David Zaslav should be sending a fruit basket right about now to Comcast boss Mike Cavanagh.
Hollywood’s gaze has moved from Warner Bros Discovery to NBCUniversal, which has just undergone its latest restructure under the new Comcast president, a move that saw film chief Donna Langley expand her empire into television and the departure of Susan Rovner.
What do the changes mean for NBCU’s television business under Langley, is the company destined for another shake-up on the television side, and was Rovner, who oversaw series such as NBC’s Night Court, one of the biggest new broadcast comedies in the last few years, and Peacock’s acclaimed Poker Face, a success?
During a keynote at SXSW in March, Rovner told a story about how former CEO Jeff Shell – who exited after a sexual harassment investigation – told her that when someone walks into one of its theme parks, it...
Hollywood’s gaze has moved from Warner Bros Discovery to NBCUniversal, which has just undergone its latest restructure under the new Comcast president, a move that saw film chief Donna Langley expand her empire into television and the departure of Susan Rovner.
What do the changes mean for NBCU’s television business under Langley, is the company destined for another shake-up on the television side, and was Rovner, who oversaw series such as NBC’s Night Court, one of the biggest new broadcast comedies in the last few years, and Peacock’s acclaimed Poker Face, a success?
During a keynote at SXSW in March, Rovner told a story about how former CEO Jeff Shell – who exited after a sexual harassment investigation – told her that when someone walks into one of its theme parks, it...
- 7/6/2023
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Donna Langley: Now with TV!
The chairman of Universal Filmed Entertainment Group has added television oversight as part of a Thursday restructuring at NBCUniversal; Langley’s title is now chairman, NBCUniversal Studio Group & chief content officer. Susan Rovner, who was chairman of entertainment content for NBCU’s television and streaming division, is leaving the company.
Rovner’s counterpart, Frances Berwick, will be elevated to chairman, NBCUniversal Entertainment, a newly formed role reporting into both Langley and NBCUniversal Media Group Chairman Mark Lazarus.
The news was announced Thursday by Mike Cavanaugh, who took over in April after Jeff Shell exited following an investigation into sexual harassment. Cavanaugh’s restructure includes himself as president but no CEO; in place of that position are a hand-picked leadership team. In addition to Langley overseeing all content, Lazarus will lead Peacock, NBC Sports, and affiliates, Cesar Conde has the news division, and Mark Woodbury leads parks.
The chairman of Universal Filmed Entertainment Group has added television oversight as part of a Thursday restructuring at NBCUniversal; Langley’s title is now chairman, NBCUniversal Studio Group & chief content officer. Susan Rovner, who was chairman of entertainment content for NBCU’s television and streaming division, is leaving the company.
Rovner’s counterpart, Frances Berwick, will be elevated to chairman, NBCUniversal Entertainment, a newly formed role reporting into both Langley and NBCUniversal Media Group Chairman Mark Lazarus.
The news was announced Thursday by Mike Cavanaugh, who took over in April after Jeff Shell exited following an investigation into sexual harassment. Cavanaugh’s restructure includes himself as president but no CEO; in place of that position are a hand-picked leadership team. In addition to Langley overseeing all content, Lazarus will lead Peacock, NBC Sports, and affiliates, Cesar Conde has the news division, and Mark Woodbury leads parks.
- 7/6/2023
- by Tony Maglio and Brian Welk
- Indiewire
The producers of CNBC’s “The Profit” have beaten a $30 million arbitration lawsuit filed by the trustee of a bankrupt contestant that appeared on the show in 2015.
Last year, Lynn E. Feldman, Esquire, the Chapter 7 trustee for the estate of Pennsylvania design company Precise Graphix, LLC, sued NBCUniversal, Camping World Inc., a vehicle retailer partially owned by Marcus Lemonis, and the production company Machete for $30 million in damages, alleging that the show committed fraud and breach of contract that led to the company’s bankruptcy in 2021.
In May, an arbitrator dismissed those claims, finding that they were “unsupported by competent, credible evidence.”
“Given the complete failure of competent, credible evidence supporting her allegations at the hearing, the Trustee cannot establish the required elements of the fourteen causes of action alleged in the Demand,” arbitrator Ann Jones wrote in the ruling revealed in bankruptcy court documents on Wednesday. “Even if one...
Last year, Lynn E. Feldman, Esquire, the Chapter 7 trustee for the estate of Pennsylvania design company Precise Graphix, LLC, sued NBCUniversal, Camping World Inc., a vehicle retailer partially owned by Marcus Lemonis, and the production company Machete for $30 million in damages, alleging that the show committed fraud and breach of contract that led to the company’s bankruptcy in 2021.
In May, an arbitrator dismissed those claims, finding that they were “unsupported by competent, credible evidence.”
“Given the complete failure of competent, credible evidence supporting her allegations at the hearing, the Trustee cannot establish the required elements of the fourteen causes of action alleged in the Demand,” arbitrator Ann Jones wrote in the ruling revealed in bankruptcy court documents on Wednesday. “Even if one...
- 7/6/2023
- by Lucas Manfredi
- The Wrap
Executive is one of four operational heads to lead NBCU as Comcast head decides not to name one CEO.
Universal Filmed Entertainment Group chairman Donna Langley has been promoted to chairman of NBCUniversal Studio Group & chief content officer, taking charge of the new unified division in a role which adds oversight of television and streaming content strategy to her purview.
Langley is one of four operational heads at NBCU under Comcast president Mike Cavanagh, who said on Thursday (July 6) he will not name a new CEO following the recent departure of Jeff Shell.
She will now oversee NBCU’s creative...
Universal Filmed Entertainment Group chairman Donna Langley has been promoted to chairman of NBCUniversal Studio Group & chief content officer, taking charge of the new unified division in a role which adds oversight of television and streaming content strategy to her purview.
Langley is one of four operational heads at NBCU under Comcast president Mike Cavanagh, who said on Thursday (July 6) he will not name a new CEO following the recent departure of Jeff Shell.
She will now oversee NBCU’s creative...
- 7/6/2023
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Executive is one of four operational heads to lead NBCU as Comcast head decides not to name one CEO.
Universal filmed Entertainment chairman Donna Langley has been promoted to chairman of the newly created NBCUniversal Studio Group & chief content officer.
Langley will oversee a unified content strategy across the NBCUniversal portfolio bringing together the film and television studios and is one of four operational heads at NBCU under Comcast president Mike Cavanagh, who said on Thursday (JUly 6) he will not name a new CEO following the recent departure of Jeff Shell.
Langley will oversee NBCU’s creative teams including Universal...
Universal filmed Entertainment chairman Donna Langley has been promoted to chairman of the newly created NBCUniversal Studio Group & chief content officer.
Langley will oversee a unified content strategy across the NBCUniversal portfolio bringing together the film and television studios and is one of four operational heads at NBCU under Comcast president Mike Cavanagh, who said on Thursday (JUly 6) he will not name a new CEO following the recent departure of Jeff Shell.
Langley will oversee NBCU’s creative teams including Universal...
- 7/6/2023
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
What’s NBC nowadays?
Even before the ongoing writers strike scrambled the network’s fall schedule, its identity — historically quite strong as a place for chewy, grown-up dramas and chic, cerebral sitcoms — had seemed hazy. Promising comedies, the sort that might have grown to fulfill the role recently played by “30 Rock” or “Superstore,” got unceremoniously booted from the air after barely a chance to thrive; new dramas, from “Ordinary Joe” to “The Thing About Pam,” seemed painfully undistinguished.
It’s been a tough few years. And as much as the departure of Susan Rovner, chairman of entertainment content for NBCUniversal Television and Streaming, a career TV executive previously known for her work at Warner Bros. Television, is just latest bit of media industry consolidation, it’s also a moment to observe that the legacy network and its corporate siblings have struggled to find a way forward. In the years...
Even before the ongoing writers strike scrambled the network’s fall schedule, its identity — historically quite strong as a place for chewy, grown-up dramas and chic, cerebral sitcoms — had seemed hazy. Promising comedies, the sort that might have grown to fulfill the role recently played by “30 Rock” or “Superstore,” got unceremoniously booted from the air after barely a chance to thrive; new dramas, from “Ordinary Joe” to “The Thing About Pam,” seemed painfully undistinguished.
It’s been a tough few years. And as much as the departure of Susan Rovner, chairman of entertainment content for NBCUniversal Television and Streaming, a career TV executive previously known for her work at Warner Bros. Television, is just latest bit of media industry consolidation, it’s also a moment to observe that the legacy network and its corporate siblings have struggled to find a way forward. In the years...
- 7/6/2023
- by Daniel D'Addario
- Variety Film + TV
NBCUniversal is getting a major C-suite shake-up.
Comcast president Mike Cavanagh is undertaking a significant executive reorganization of NBCUniversal, giving expanded responsibilities to executives Donna Langley, Mark Lazarus and Cesar Conde, and cutting the number of direct reports he deals with on a regular basis to four operational leaders.
Langley, the chair of Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, will now oversee all content for the company, including for streaming and TV. Her new title will be chairman of the NBCUniversal studio group & chief content officer.
Conde, the chairman of the NBC News Group, will add oversight of Telemundo, the company’s Spanish-language division, as well as the company’s local TV business. Lazarus will be chairman of the NBCUniversal media group, which will include oversight of advertising and distribution, as well as the business operations of the TV networks and streaming platforms, and NBC Sports.
Mark Woodbury will continue as a direct report to Cavanagh,...
Comcast president Mike Cavanagh is undertaking a significant executive reorganization of NBCUniversal, giving expanded responsibilities to executives Donna Langley, Mark Lazarus and Cesar Conde, and cutting the number of direct reports he deals with on a regular basis to four operational leaders.
Langley, the chair of Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, will now oversee all content for the company, including for streaming and TV. Her new title will be chairman of the NBCUniversal studio group & chief content officer.
Conde, the chairman of the NBC News Group, will add oversight of Telemundo, the company’s Spanish-language division, as well as the company’s local TV business. Lazarus will be chairman of the NBCUniversal media group, which will include oversight of advertising and distribution, as well as the business operations of the TV networks and streaming platforms, and NBC Sports.
Mark Woodbury will continue as a direct report to Cavanagh,...
- 7/6/2023
- by Alex Weprin
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Universal Filmed Entertainment Group chairman Donna Langley is taking oversight of all of NBCUniversal’s entertainment divisions, including film and TV, TheWrap has confirmed.
Langley replaces Susan Rovner, chairman of the NBCU Television and Streaming’s Entertainment Content division, who is exiting the company.
Additionally, Mark Lazarus has been promoted to NBCUniversal Media Group chairman. Lazarus will continue to run the company’s TV networks, direct to consumer business, including Peacock, as well as the NBC Sports Group and NBC affiliate stations. In addition, he will oversee advertising sales, which will continue to report to interim chairman of global advertising and partnerships Mark Marshall, and content distribution, which will continue to report to the division’s chairman Matt Bond.
“Together, these businesses comprised more than $20 billion in revenue last year,” Comcast president Mike Cavanagh said in a memo to employees. “Mark’s decades of experience running television, sports and advertising...
Langley replaces Susan Rovner, chairman of the NBCU Television and Streaming’s Entertainment Content division, who is exiting the company.
Additionally, Mark Lazarus has been promoted to NBCUniversal Media Group chairman. Lazarus will continue to run the company’s TV networks, direct to consumer business, including Peacock, as well as the NBC Sports Group and NBC affiliate stations. In addition, he will oversee advertising sales, which will continue to report to interim chairman of global advertising and partnerships Mark Marshall, and content distribution, which will continue to report to the division’s chairman Matt Bond.
“Together, these businesses comprised more than $20 billion in revenue last year,” Comcast president Mike Cavanagh said in a memo to employees. “Mark’s decades of experience running television, sports and advertising...
- 7/6/2023
- by Lucas Manfredi
- The Wrap
NBCUniversal is going through another restructure.
Donna Langley, who was Chairman, Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, is being promoted to oversee all of the company’s entertainment divisions including film and TV.
Susan Rovner, Chairman, Entertainment Content for NBCUniversal’s Television and Streaming division, is leaving.
Mark Lazarus, Chairman, NBCUniversal Television and Streaming, and Frances Berwick, who is now Chairman, NBCUniversal Entertainment are also getting promoted.
The moves come as Comcast President Mike Cavanagh puts his stamp on the company after taking over following Jeff Shell’s exit after an investigation into sexual harassment.
Cavanagh will continue to lead NBCU as President of Comcast and will not name a new CEO. Instead, he will hand responsibility to four operational heads: Donna Langley, Mark Lazarus, Cesar Conde and Mark Woodbury; and four key corporate leaders: Kimberley Harris, Anand Kini, Adam Miller and Craig Robinson.
As part of this new structure, Langley will oversee the NBCUniversal Studio Group,...
Donna Langley, who was Chairman, Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, is being promoted to oversee all of the company’s entertainment divisions including film and TV.
Susan Rovner, Chairman, Entertainment Content for NBCUniversal’s Television and Streaming division, is leaving.
Mark Lazarus, Chairman, NBCUniversal Television and Streaming, and Frances Berwick, who is now Chairman, NBCUniversal Entertainment are also getting promoted.
The moves come as Comcast President Mike Cavanagh puts his stamp on the company after taking over following Jeff Shell’s exit after an investigation into sexual harassment.
Cavanagh will continue to lead NBCU as President of Comcast and will not name a new CEO. Instead, he will hand responsibility to four operational heads: Donna Langley, Mark Lazarus, Cesar Conde and Mark Woodbury; and four key corporate leaders: Kimberley Harris, Anand Kini, Adam Miller and Craig Robinson.
As part of this new structure, Langley will oversee the NBCUniversal Studio Group,...
- 7/6/2023
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Universal film chief Donna Langley is set to take control of content and creative ops across NBCUniversal’s portfolio of brands, as TV chief Susan Rovner exits the company.
The shakeup in leadership is the first major restructuring move made by Comcast president Mike Cavanagh since he took direct oversight of subsidiary NBCU upon the ousting of CEO Jeff Shell in April.
In a memo to staff Thursday, Cavanagh announced NBCUniversal will be reorganized into four key units: NBCUniversal Studio Group, led by Langley, NBCUniversal Media Group, run by chairman of TV and streaming Mark Lazarus, NBCU News Group, run by existing news boss Cesar Conde, and the Universal Destinations and Experiences Group, headed up by parks boss Mark Woodbury.
Cavanagh is doubling down on his decision to not name a new CEO of NBCU, and instead continue to oversee the media company from his role as president of Comcast.
The shakeup in leadership is the first major restructuring move made by Comcast president Mike Cavanagh since he took direct oversight of subsidiary NBCU upon the ousting of CEO Jeff Shell in April.
In a memo to staff Thursday, Cavanagh announced NBCUniversal will be reorganized into four key units: NBCUniversal Studio Group, led by Langley, NBCUniversal Media Group, run by chairman of TV and streaming Mark Lazarus, NBCU News Group, run by existing news boss Cesar Conde, and the Universal Destinations and Experiences Group, headed up by parks boss Mark Woodbury.
Cavanagh is doubling down on his decision to not name a new CEO of NBCU, and instead continue to oversee the media company from his role as president of Comcast.
- 7/6/2023
- by Jennifer Maas and Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Pete Davidson as Pete Davidson and Joe Pesci as Joe Larocca in ‘Bupkis’ (Photo by: Heidi Gutman/Peacock)
Peacock’s ordering more of Bupkis, giving the half-hour comedy series a season two order. The first season premiered on May 4, 2023 with the release of all eight episodes. Peacock didn’t confirm when fans can expect the just-announced second season to debut.
“Pete Davidson is a once-in-a-generation talent, and what he created with the first season of Bupkis absolutely blew us away,” stated Susan Rovner, Chairman, Entertainment Content, NBCUniversal Television and Streaming. “Pete has the rare ability to make you laugh out loud with his unfiltered brand of comedy, and then tear up with his raw and honest vulnerability. We could not be more proud to continue on this journey with Pete, Lorne Michaels, Broadway Video, and our partners at Universal Television for a second season as we continue to bolster Peacock’s comedy slate.
Peacock’s ordering more of Bupkis, giving the half-hour comedy series a season two order. The first season premiered on May 4, 2023 with the release of all eight episodes. Peacock didn’t confirm when fans can expect the just-announced second season to debut.
“Pete Davidson is a once-in-a-generation talent, and what he created with the first season of Bupkis absolutely blew us away,” stated Susan Rovner, Chairman, Entertainment Content, NBCUniversal Television and Streaming. “Pete has the rare ability to make you laugh out loud with his unfiltered brand of comedy, and then tear up with his raw and honest vulnerability. We could not be more proud to continue on this journey with Pete, Lorne Michaels, Broadway Video, and our partners at Universal Television for a second season as we continue to bolster Peacock’s comedy slate.
- 6/25/2023
- by Rebecca Murray
- Showbiz Junkies
Bupkis -Pictured: (l-r) Pete Davidson as Pete Davidson, Joe Pesci as Joe Larocca (Photo by: Heidi Gutman/Peacock) Peacock’s critically acclaimed comedy series, Bupkis, from executive producer Lorne Michaels and starring Pete Davidson, Edie Falco, and Joe Pesci, has been renewed for a second season. Bupkis comes from Universal Television, a division of Universal Studio Group, and Broadway Video. “Pete Davidson is a once-in-a-generation talent, and what he created with the first season of Bupkis absolutely blew us away,” said Susan Rovner, Chairman, Entertainment Content, NBCUniversal Television and Streaming. “Pete has the rare ability to make you laugh out loud with his unfiltered brand of comedy, and then tear up with his raw and honest vulnerability. We could not be more proud to continue on this journey with Pete, Lorne Michaels, Broadway Video, and our partners at Universal Television for a second season as we continue to bolster Peacock’s comedy slate.
- 6/23/2023
- by Hollywood Outbreak
- HollywoodOutbreak.com
Pete Davidson will remain on TV screens for another season of his Peacock series “Bupkis”.
The show works as a semi-autobiographical series, with Davidson, 29, taking on the lead role as a fictionalized version of himself. The series follows him as he navigates familial bonds and the challenges of stardom.
Edie Falco and Joe Pesci join Davidson, and guest stars Machine Gun Kelly, Steve Buscemi, Charlamagne Tha God, Al Gore and John Mulaney.
Read More: Comedian Pete Davidson Charged With Reckless Driving After Beverly Hills Crash
According to Variety, the chairman of entertainment content at NBCUniversal Television and Streaming, Susan Rovner, had a shining statement for the announcement of the season renewal: “Pete Davidson is a once-in-a-generation talent, and what he created with the first season of ‘Bupkis’ absolutely blew us away.”
“Pete has the rare ability to make you laugh out loud with his unfiltered brand of comedy, and then...
The show works as a semi-autobiographical series, with Davidson, 29, taking on the lead role as a fictionalized version of himself. The series follows him as he navigates familial bonds and the challenges of stardom.
Edie Falco and Joe Pesci join Davidson, and guest stars Machine Gun Kelly, Steve Buscemi, Charlamagne Tha God, Al Gore and John Mulaney.
Read More: Comedian Pete Davidson Charged With Reckless Driving After Beverly Hills Crash
According to Variety, the chairman of entertainment content at NBCUniversal Television and Streaming, Susan Rovner, had a shining statement for the announcement of the season renewal: “Pete Davidson is a once-in-a-generation talent, and what he created with the first season of ‘Bupkis’ absolutely blew us away.”
“Pete has the rare ability to make you laugh out loud with his unfiltered brand of comedy, and then...
- 6/23/2023
- by Emerson Pearson
- ET Canada
The massive posters plastered all around the Staten Island Ferry terminal in New York promoting Pete Davidson’s Peacock series Bupkis are here to stay. On Friday, the streaming service announced that the semi-autobiographical show will be returning for a second season with more antics and more special guests.
“Pete Davidson is a once-in-a-generation talent, and what he created with the first season of ‘Bupkis’ absolutely blew us away,” Susan Rovner, chairman of entertainment content at NBCUniversal Television and Streaming, shared in a statement. “Pete has the rare ability to...
“Pete Davidson is a once-in-a-generation talent, and what he created with the first season of ‘Bupkis’ absolutely blew us away,” Susan Rovner, chairman of entertainment content at NBCUniversal Television and Streaming, shared in a statement. “Pete has the rare ability to...
- 6/23/2023
- by Larisha Paul
- Rollingstone.com
Peacock is staying in business with Pete Davidson.
The streaming service picked up a second season of its hit original comedy series Bupkis on Friday morning.
"Pete Davidson is a once-in-a-generation talent, and what he created with the first season of Bupkis absolutely blew us away," said Susan Rovner, Chairman, Entertainment Content NBCUniversal Television and Streaming.
"Pete has the rare ability to make you laugh out loud with his unfiltered brand of comedy, and then tear up with his raw and honest vulnerability."
"We could not be more proud to continue on this journey with Pete, Lorne Michaels, Broadway Video, and our partners at Universal Television for a second season as we continue to bolster Peacock's comedy slate."
Bupkis launched on Peacock with its entire first season in May and immediately struck a chord with viewers and critics alike.
Written, executive produced by, and starring Pete Davidson, Bupkis is executive...
The streaming service picked up a second season of its hit original comedy series Bupkis on Friday morning.
"Pete Davidson is a once-in-a-generation talent, and what he created with the first season of Bupkis absolutely blew us away," said Susan Rovner, Chairman, Entertainment Content NBCUniversal Television and Streaming.
"Pete has the rare ability to make you laugh out loud with his unfiltered brand of comedy, and then tear up with his raw and honest vulnerability."
"We could not be more proud to continue on this journey with Pete, Lorne Michaels, Broadway Video, and our partners at Universal Television for a second season as we continue to bolster Peacock's comedy slate."
Bupkis launched on Peacock with its entire first season in May and immediately struck a chord with viewers and critics alike.
Written, executive produced by, and starring Pete Davidson, Bupkis is executive...
- 6/23/2023
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
Good news for the King of Staten Island.
On Friday, Peacock announced it had renewed the Pete Davidson comedy “Bupkis” for a second season.
“Pete Davidson is a once-in-a-generation talent, and what he created with the first season of Bupkis absolutely blew us away,” Susan Rovner – the chair of Entertainment Content for NBCUniversal Television and Streaming – said in a statement. “Pete has the rare ability to make you laugh out loud with his unfiltered brand of comedy, and then tear up with his raw and honest vulnerability. We could not be more proud to continue on this journey with Pete, Lorne Michaels, Broadway Video, and our partners at Universal Television for a second season as we continue to bolster Peacock’s comedy slate.”
“Pete, Lorne, and the entire ‘Bupkis’ team took audiences on a wild and emotionally captivating adventure in season one; from family weddings to drug-fueled road trips to lonely holidays on set,...
On Friday, Peacock announced it had renewed the Pete Davidson comedy “Bupkis” for a second season.
“Pete Davidson is a once-in-a-generation talent, and what he created with the first season of Bupkis absolutely blew us away,” Susan Rovner – the chair of Entertainment Content for NBCUniversal Television and Streaming – said in a statement. “Pete has the rare ability to make you laugh out loud with his unfiltered brand of comedy, and then tear up with his raw and honest vulnerability. We could not be more proud to continue on this journey with Pete, Lorne Michaels, Broadway Video, and our partners at Universal Television for a second season as we continue to bolster Peacock’s comedy slate.”
“Pete, Lorne, and the entire ‘Bupkis’ team took audiences on a wild and emotionally captivating adventure in season one; from family weddings to drug-fueled road trips to lonely holidays on set,...
- 6/23/2023
- by Christopher Rosen
- Gold Derby
Peacock is headed back to Staten Island.
The NBCUniversal streamer has ordered a second season of Bupkis, its comedy series co-created by and starring former Saturday Night Live regular Pete Davidson. The renewal for the semi-autobiographical show from Universal Television and Lorne Michaels’ Broadway Video comes about seven weeks after it debuted.
“Pete Davidson is a once-in-a-generation talent, and what he created with the first season of Bupkis absolutely blew us away,” said Susan Rovner, chairman entertainment content at NBCUniversal Television and Streaming. “Pete has the rare ability to make you laugh out loud with his unfiltered brand of comedy, and then tear up with his raw and honest vulnerability. We could not be more proud to continue on this journey with Pete, Lorne Michaels, Broadway Video, and our partners at Universal Television for a second season as we continue to bolster Peacock’s comedy slate.”
The series follows Davidson...
The NBCUniversal streamer has ordered a second season of Bupkis, its comedy series co-created by and starring former Saturday Night Live regular Pete Davidson. The renewal for the semi-autobiographical show from Universal Television and Lorne Michaels’ Broadway Video comes about seven weeks after it debuted.
“Pete Davidson is a once-in-a-generation talent, and what he created with the first season of Bupkis absolutely blew us away,” said Susan Rovner, chairman entertainment content at NBCUniversal Television and Streaming. “Pete has the rare ability to make you laugh out loud with his unfiltered brand of comedy, and then tear up with his raw and honest vulnerability. We could not be more proud to continue on this journey with Pete, Lorne Michaels, Broadway Video, and our partners at Universal Television for a second season as we continue to bolster Peacock’s comedy slate.”
The series follows Davidson...
- 6/23/2023
- by Rick Porter
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Peacock is bringing back Pete Davidson comedy Bupkis.
The streamer has renewed the series for a second season, which is good news for fans who want to find out [Spoiler Alert] how Davidson fared after his car crash at the end of Season 1.
The series, which also stars Edie Falco and Joe Pesci, premiered on May 4 and comes from Universal Television and Lorne Michaels’ Broadway Video.
No details have been given on who is returning for Season 2, but expect a large number of guest stars. The first season featured the likes of Machine Gun Kelly, Steve Buscemi, Bobby Cannavale, Charlie Day, Al Gore, Paul Walter Hauser, Chase Sui Wonders and Ray Romano.
The first season of the semi-autobiographical series followed the former SNL star as he attempts to work through unique family dynamics and the complexities of fame to form meaningful relationships. Falco played his mother and Pesci starred as his grandfather.
The streamer has renewed the series for a second season, which is good news for fans who want to find out [Spoiler Alert] how Davidson fared after his car crash at the end of Season 1.
The series, which also stars Edie Falco and Joe Pesci, premiered on May 4 and comes from Universal Television and Lorne Michaels’ Broadway Video.
No details have been given on who is returning for Season 2, but expect a large number of guest stars. The first season featured the likes of Machine Gun Kelly, Steve Buscemi, Bobby Cannavale, Charlie Day, Al Gore, Paul Walter Hauser, Chase Sui Wonders and Ray Romano.
The first season of the semi-autobiographical series followed the former SNL star as he attempts to work through unique family dynamics and the complexities of fame to form meaningful relationships. Falco played his mother and Pesci starred as his grandfather.
- 6/23/2023
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Pete Davidson’s semi-autobiographical comedy “Bupkis” has been renewed by NBCUniversal, the studio confirmed Friday. The Peacock comedy stars Edie Falco and Joe Pesci alongside the “Saturday Night Live” alum.
“Pete Davidson is a once-in-a-generation talent, and what he created with the first season of ‘Bupkis’ absolutely blew us away,” Susan Rovner, Chairman, Entertainment Content, NBCUniversal Television and Streaming, said in a release. “Pete has the rare ability to make you laugh out loud with his unfiltered brand of comedy, and then tear up with his raw and honest vulnerability. We could not be more proud to continue on this journey with Pete, Lorne Michaels, Broadway Video, and our partners at Universal Television for a second season as we continue to bolster Peacock’s comedy slate.”
The first season of “Bupkis” was met with mixed reviews, with some critics calling the series “uneven,” while others (including TheWrap) said Davidson “masterfully...
“Pete Davidson is a once-in-a-generation talent, and what he created with the first season of ‘Bupkis’ absolutely blew us away,” Susan Rovner, Chairman, Entertainment Content, NBCUniversal Television and Streaming, said in a release. “Pete has the rare ability to make you laugh out loud with his unfiltered brand of comedy, and then tear up with his raw and honest vulnerability. We could not be more proud to continue on this journey with Pete, Lorne Michaels, Broadway Video, and our partners at Universal Television for a second season as we continue to bolster Peacock’s comedy slate.”
The first season of “Bupkis” was met with mixed reviews, with some critics calling the series “uneven,” while others (including TheWrap) said Davidson “masterfully...
- 6/23/2023
- by Mason Bissada
- The Wrap
Rod Aissa is leaving NBCUniversal after 11 years, most recently serving as EVP, Entertainment Unscripted Content, NBCUniversal Television and Streaming. He just informed his staff of his departure in a memo (you can read it below).
In the interim, Rachel Smith will take over Aissa’s role of leading the unscripted lifestyle and docuseries group, working alongside Corie Henson, EVP, Entertainment Unscripted Content who oversees competition and game shows.
Aissa oversaw all unscripted lifestyle and documentary programming across NBCU’s broadcast, cable and streaming platforms: NBC, Bravo, E!, Oxygen True Crime, SyFy, Universal Kids, USA Network and Peacock, reporting to Susan Rovner, Chairman, Entertainment Content, NBCUniversal Television and Streaming.
Previously, he was EVP, Original Programming for Oxygen and E! Production where he managed the development and production of Oxygen’s original true-crime programming and shepherded E!’s production slate.
Before joining Oxygen, Aissa was on the launch team at OWN: The Oprah Winfrey Network...
In the interim, Rachel Smith will take over Aissa’s role of leading the unscripted lifestyle and docuseries group, working alongside Corie Henson, EVP, Entertainment Unscripted Content who oversees competition and game shows.
Aissa oversaw all unscripted lifestyle and documentary programming across NBCU’s broadcast, cable and streaming platforms: NBC, Bravo, E!, Oxygen True Crime, SyFy, Universal Kids, USA Network and Peacock, reporting to Susan Rovner, Chairman, Entertainment Content, NBCUniversal Television and Streaming.
Previously, he was EVP, Original Programming for Oxygen and E! Production where he managed the development and production of Oxygen’s original true-crime programming and shepherded E!’s production slate.
Before joining Oxygen, Aissa was on the launch team at OWN: The Oprah Winfrey Network...
- 6/16/2023
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Rod Aissa, the executive VP, unscripted content at NBCUniversal Television and Streaming, is departing the company after 11 years. Aissa oversaw all unscripted lifestyle and documentary programming across NBCU’s broadcast, cable and streaming platforms: NBC, Bravo, E!, Oxygen True Crime, Syfy, Universal Kids, USA Network and Peacock.
Rachel Smith will take on the interim role of leading the unscripted lifestyle and docuseries group, which reports to Susan Rovner, Chairman, Entertainment Content, NBCUniversal Television and Streaming.
NBCU said it would “be doing a broad search to fill the role.” Smith, and whomever takes over the role permanently, will continue to work closely with Corie Henson, who serves executive vice president of entertainment unscripted content, focused on reality competition, talent competition and game show formats.
Aissa’s domain has included Bravo hits, including shows like “Top Chef,” the “Real Housewives” franchise and “Vanderpump Rules.” He first joined NBCU as exec VP of original programming at Oxygen,...
Rachel Smith will take on the interim role of leading the unscripted lifestyle and docuseries group, which reports to Susan Rovner, Chairman, Entertainment Content, NBCUniversal Television and Streaming.
NBCU said it would “be doing a broad search to fill the role.” Smith, and whomever takes over the role permanently, will continue to work closely with Corie Henson, who serves executive vice president of entertainment unscripted content, focused on reality competition, talent competition and game show formats.
Aissa’s domain has included Bravo hits, including shows like “Top Chef,” the “Real Housewives” franchise and “Vanderpump Rules.” He first joined NBCU as exec VP of original programming at Oxygen,...
- 6/16/2023
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
A group of high-profile writers including Julie Plec and new Station 19 showrunner Zoanne Clack opened up about the WGA strike and the main issues surrounding the walkout at the Atx Television Festival.
“We’re mad,” said the The Vampire Diaries co-creator, who was speaking at the panel session alongside Clack, Greg Iwinski, who has written on Last Week Tonight with John Oliver and The Late Show with Stephen Colbert and moderator Beau Willimon, who developed Netflix’s House of Cards. Damon Lindelof was originally intended to be on the panel but was a no-show.
“The lack of care for the artists and content creators has reached a breaking point. Before we didn’t have the support of other unions but now everyone is as mad as we are. We have this community of raw anger, there’s an enemy in this and it’s not us. The second thing is god bless them,...
“We’re mad,” said the The Vampire Diaries co-creator, who was speaking at the panel session alongside Clack, Greg Iwinski, who has written on Last Week Tonight with John Oliver and The Late Show with Stephen Colbert and moderator Beau Willimon, who developed Netflix’s House of Cards. Damon Lindelof was originally intended to be on the panel but was a no-show.
“The lack of care for the artists and content creators has reached a breaking point. Before we didn’t have the support of other unions but now everyone is as mad as we are. We have this community of raw anger, there’s an enemy in this and it’s not us. The second thing is god bless them,...
- 6/3/2023
- by Peter White and Rosy Cordero
- Deadline Film + TV
Community fans got their wish in 2022 when Peacock ordered a movie follow-up for the comedy series.
Since the announcement, there have been few updates about the project, and, as expected, the project is on hold due to the Writers Guild Strike.
Series star Joel McHale opened up to TV Line while promoting Crime Scene Kitchen.
"That was a bummer, because we were getting very close," he told the outlet.
"But at the same time, I'm a thousand billion percent behind the writers. The writers need to be paid."
The actor confirmed the project is on hold but will still happen when the time is right.
"When this strike is over, we'll come back and we'll make it."
"And I am sure that [series creator] Dan [Harmon] will put in 12 jokes addressing the fact it took [this long to come together]," McHale said.
"But we'll get there. It just may take a little while."
When the Community movie was announced,...
Since the announcement, there have been few updates about the project, and, as expected, the project is on hold due to the Writers Guild Strike.
Series star Joel McHale opened up to TV Line while promoting Crime Scene Kitchen.
"That was a bummer, because we were getting very close," he told the outlet.
"But at the same time, I'm a thousand billion percent behind the writers. The writers need to be paid."
The actor confirmed the project is on hold but will still happen when the time is right.
"When this strike is over, we'll come back and we'll make it."
"And I am sure that [series creator] Dan [Harmon] will put in 12 jokes addressing the fact it took [this long to come together]," McHale said.
"But we'll get there. It just may take a little while."
When the Community movie was announced,...
- 6/2/2023
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
Community really is the little show that could. After airing on NBC for five seasons, where it was under a near-constant threat of cancellation, the comedy series finally got the axe. Thankfully, Yahoo! came to the rescue on the day that the cast’s contracts were set to expire and ordered a 13-episode sixth season. The dream of “six seasons and a movie” was finally realized when Peacock announced last year that they were developing a Community movie, but Joel McHale has now confirmed that the project has been delayed just as filming was about to begin.
Joel McHale told TVLine that the Community movie was due to start shooting this month, but production was put on hold due to the Writers Guild strike. “That was a bummer, because we were getting very close,” McHale said. “But at the same time, I’m a thousand billion percent behind the writers.
Joel McHale told TVLine that the Community movie was due to start shooting this month, but production was put on hold due to the Writers Guild strike. “That was a bummer, because we were getting very close,” McHale said. “But at the same time, I’m a thousand billion percent behind the writers.
- 6/2/2023
- by Kevin Fraser
- JoBlo.com
The NBCUniversal upfront today kicked off a week of events in New York amid a writers strike.
Given the lack of A-list scripted stars, the company turned to one of its animated stars to kick off the morning.
Ted, the Seth MacFarlane-voiced star of the eponymous movie and upcoming Peacock series, opened with a song-and-dance number with a few barbs.
Related: 2023 Premiere Dates For New & Returning Series On Broadcast, Cable & Streaming
Most notably, the stoned bear pointed out that Twitter “may seem like the place to begin, but [it] just let the crazies back in,” particularly relevant given that NBCU ad chief Linda Yaccarino departed days before the upfronts to become CEO of Elon Musk’s social media site.
Other highlights for the ad crowd include, “How can I pay for all my hookers and blow without adverts on my shows?” and “As long as husbands keep killing their wives,...
Given the lack of A-list scripted stars, the company turned to one of its animated stars to kick off the morning.
Ted, the Seth MacFarlane-voiced star of the eponymous movie and upcoming Peacock series, opened with a song-and-dance number with a few barbs.
Related: 2023 Premiere Dates For New & Returning Series On Broadcast, Cable & Streaming
Most notably, the stoned bear pointed out that Twitter “may seem like the place to begin, but [it] just let the crazies back in,” particularly relevant given that NBCU ad chief Linda Yaccarino departed days before the upfronts to become CEO of Elon Musk’s social media site.
Other highlights for the ad crowd include, “How can I pay for all my hookers and blow without adverts on my shows?” and “As long as husbands keep killing their wives,...
- 5/15/2023
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Vampire Academy won’t be coming back from the dead, according to co-showrunner Marguerite MacIntyre, who has shared an update on the Peacock drama’s rescue efforts.
“I have been wanting to say this for a very long time,” MacIntyre, who developed the series with Julie Plec, says in a video posted to social media on Wednesday. “Again, thank you for all your love for the show. Thanks for the incredible support. Thanks for you sticking with us through a lot of thin lately.”
More from TVLineTwisted Metal: 'Bonkers' Video Game Adaptation Starring Anthony Mackie Gets Peacock Release...
“I have been wanting to say this for a very long time,” MacIntyre, who developed the series with Julie Plec, says in a video posted to social media on Wednesday. “Again, thank you for all your love for the show. Thanks for the incredible support. Thanks for you sticking with us through a lot of thin lately.”
More from TVLineTwisted Metal: 'Bonkers' Video Game Adaptation Starring Anthony Mackie Gets Peacock Release...
- 5/3/2023
- by Andy Swift
- TVLine.com
NBCUniversal executives did not comment on the writers strike at Peacock’s New York-based NewFront presentation to advertisers Tuesday, even as hundreds of Writers Guild of America members and their supporters rallied in a picket line outside the 5th Avenue event.
The scripts for the occasion, led by Peacock president Kelly Campbell, were prepped ahead of Monday’s late-night call for a strike once contract negotiations broke down between the WGA and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP). They were not modified Tuesday to include remarks about the strike, despite the fact TV and film writers had gathered in mass outside at the WGA East’s only planned protest for Day 1 of the work stoppage.
“At NBCUniversal, we’re known for incredible storytelling. But my favorite story from this past year isn’t about a big-hearted human lie detector or a kick-ass nun on a mission,” Campbell...
The scripts for the occasion, led by Peacock president Kelly Campbell, were prepped ahead of Monday’s late-night call for a strike once contract negotiations broke down between the WGA and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP). They were not modified Tuesday to include remarks about the strike, despite the fact TV and film writers had gathered in mass outside at the WGA East’s only planned protest for Day 1 of the work stoppage.
“At NBCUniversal, we’re known for incredible storytelling. But my favorite story from this past year isn’t about a big-hearted human lie detector or a kick-ass nun on a mission,” Campbell...
- 5/2/2023
- by Jennifer Maas
- Variety Film + TV
The new regime at Peacock has spent the past nine months preparing to take its baby bird to new heights.
The number of big moves made by the NBCUniversal-owned streamer — from amping up its original content slate to livestream deals with Hallmark, Reelz and Big 10 college football to bringing NBC shows back into the fold for next-day viewing and eliminating its free tier for new users — is setting the stage for what executives hope will be a growth spurt in 2023. Peacock, which launched three years ago last month, will show of its brighter plumage Tuesday with its New Fronts presentation to advertisers.
“It’s all coming together,” says Peacock president Kelly Campbell, who signed on in October 2021 after serving as president of Hulu. “We’re just seeing an increasing interest overall when it comes to inflow and engagement, and people are stickier than they were in the past.”
Of...
The number of big moves made by the NBCUniversal-owned streamer — from amping up its original content slate to livestream deals with Hallmark, Reelz and Big 10 college football to bringing NBC shows back into the fold for next-day viewing and eliminating its free tier for new users — is setting the stage for what executives hope will be a growth spurt in 2023. Peacock, which launched three years ago last month, will show of its brighter plumage Tuesday with its New Fronts presentation to advertisers.
“It’s all coming together,” says Peacock president Kelly Campbell, who signed on in October 2021 after serving as president of Hulu. “We’re just seeing an increasing interest overall when it comes to inflow and engagement, and people are stickier than they were in the past.”
Of...
- 5/1/2023
- by Jennifer Maas
- Variety Film + TV
Here’s a look at this week’s biggest premieres, parties and openings in Los Angeles and New York City, including red carpets for Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, Love & Death, Bupkis and Fatal Attraction.
Chaplin Award Gala
Viola Davis was honored at the Chaplin Awards Gala in NYC on Monday, with support from Meryl Streep, Jessica Chastain, Steve McQueen, Gina Prince-Bythewood and husband Julius Tennon.
Meryl Streep, Viola Davis and Jessica Chastain Steve McQueen, Jessica Chastain, Meryl Streep, Julius Tennon, Viola Davis, Gina Prince-Bythewood, George C. Wolfe and Jayme Lawson
Fatal Attraction premiere
Joshua Jackson, Lizzy Caplan, Amanda Peet, Alyssa Jirrels, Toby Huss, Brian Goodman, Reno Wilson and showrunner Alexandra Cunningham walked the carpet at the Fatal Attraction premiere in L.A. on Monday.
Reno Wilson, Toby Huss, Alyssa Jirrels, Lizzy Caplan, Joshua Jackson, Amanda Peet, Dee Wallace and Brian Goodman Alexandra Cunningham, Lizzy Caplan and Nicole Clemens...
Chaplin Award Gala
Viola Davis was honored at the Chaplin Awards Gala in NYC on Monday, with support from Meryl Streep, Jessica Chastain, Steve McQueen, Gina Prince-Bythewood and husband Julius Tennon.
Meryl Streep, Viola Davis and Jessica Chastain Steve McQueen, Jessica Chastain, Meryl Streep, Julius Tennon, Viola Davis, Gina Prince-Bythewood, George C. Wolfe and Jayme Lawson
Fatal Attraction premiere
Joshua Jackson, Lizzy Caplan, Amanda Peet, Alyssa Jirrels, Toby Huss, Brian Goodman, Reno Wilson and showrunner Alexandra Cunningham walked the carpet at the Fatal Attraction premiere in L.A. on Monday.
Reno Wilson, Toby Huss, Alyssa Jirrels, Lizzy Caplan, Joshua Jackson, Amanda Peet, Dee Wallace and Brian Goodman Alexandra Cunningham, Lizzy Caplan and Nicole Clemens...
- 4/28/2023
- by Kirsten Chuba
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Betty Gilpin turned to her actor dad, Jack Gilpin, for help when she was preparing for her new Peacock series “Mrs. Davis.”
“He introduced me to three nuns,” Betty told me at the show’s premiere Thursday night in Los Angeles.
Papa Gilpin is not only a veteran actor (he currently plays Church the Butler on HBO’s “The Gilded Age“), but he’s also an Episcopalian priest. “He did connect me with nuns to talk to,” Betty said. “They are these incredible feminist warriors in their own right.”
Have the sisters seen the show? “I’d be interested to know what they think about it, but I don’t think they have Peacock,” Betty said, laughing.
Mrs. Davis — “Mrs. Davis Premiere Event” — Pictured: (center l-r) Betty Gilpin, Jake McDorman, Andy McQueen at The Britely on April 13, 2023 — (Photo by: Randy Shropshire/Peacock)
In the series, created by Tara Hernandez and Damon Lindelof,...
“He introduced me to three nuns,” Betty told me at the show’s premiere Thursday night in Los Angeles.
Papa Gilpin is not only a veteran actor (he currently plays Church the Butler on HBO’s “The Gilded Age“), but he’s also an Episcopalian priest. “He did connect me with nuns to talk to,” Betty said. “They are these incredible feminist warriors in their own right.”
Have the sisters seen the show? “I’d be interested to know what they think about it, but I don’t think they have Peacock,” Betty said, laughing.
Mrs. Davis — “Mrs. Davis Premiere Event” — Pictured: (center l-r) Betty Gilpin, Jake McDorman, Andy McQueen at The Britely on April 13, 2023 — (Photo by: Randy Shropshire/Peacock)
In the series, created by Tara Hernandez and Damon Lindelof,...
- 4/14/2023
- by Marc Malkin
- Variety Film + TV
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