Lionel Messi Inspired Animated Series Is Coming To Disney Channel And Disney+

A Lionel Messi-inspired animated series will soon premiere on Disney Channel after Disney Branded Television acquired Messi and the Giants from Sony Music Vision and Sony Pictures Television – Kids, Billboard has learned. 

The sci-fi animated show follows a 12-year-old boy named Leo, who is transported from his home in Argentina into an alternate universe. The series will demonstrate how the character faces adversity, builds a team, and discovers how to become a hero. 

“I always dreamed of being involved in a project that would share the values of sports, the very same values that have been so important to my career, with younger generations,” Messi expressed in a press release. “Nothing truly is impossible with teamwork, perseverance, discipline, and hard work. I look forward to sharing this series with kids around the world, and I hope I will inspire them and motivate them to achieve their own dreams. Ever since I was a kid, I always loved animated series, and I look forward to watching this series with my own kids.” 

Each episode of Messi and the Giants is 22-minutes long and will premiere on Disney Channel, followed by Disney Channel On Demand and globally on DIsney+, and will be available in English, Spanish and other languages.  

“Football — or soccer as we call it in the United States — is the world’s most beloved sport, uniting and captivating millions of fans of all ages,” noted Ayo Davis, president, Disney Branded Television. “We are proud to work with Lionel Messi and Sony Pictures Television to bring ‘Messi and the Giants’ to our passionate, global kids’ audience. We know that its themes of family, friendship, and teamwork will resonate with not only football enthusiasts but everyone everywhere who loves a great story.” 

“It’s been a privilege to team with Leo and our colleagues at Sony Music on this first-time collaboration,” Joe D’Ambrosia, EVP and general manager, Sony Pictures Television – Kids added. “We’re thrilled that Disney is giving a global platform to this fun take on a classic tale and look forward to launching a global consumer products and branded partnerships program alongside the show’s debut.” 

“There is an incredible team all working together on this project, with Leo’s magic as the inspiration behind it all,” said Afo Verde, Chairman & CEO, Sony Music Latin Iberia. “We are thrilled that Disney has now joined our roster to help bring this imaginative series to audiences and inspire fans all around the world.” 

Heads Up! Disney Junior And National Geographic Wild Go Dark In France By January 2025 As Orange Secures Rights To The Disney Channel

The Disney Channel and National Geographic channels will survive in France through Orange boxes. Disney films will also be available 4 months after their theatrical release on Orange's VOD service. The historic operator unveils a reassuring distribution agreement with the American giant.

Following the divorce between Canal+ and Disney, Orange took advantage of the situation and announced, against all expectations, on December 20, a distribution agreement with The Walt Disney Company which strengthens access to Disney content in France and enriches the entertainment offering for Orange TV subscribers.

This partnership allows Livebox subscribers to fully access Disney content through three offers:

Included access for all TV customers to Disney's iconic channels : Disney Channel, the reference channel for young people, and National Geographic will be included from January 2, 2025 for all Orange TV customers, from their decoder and the Orange TV application on smartphones and a wide selection of connected TVs.

The possibility of subscribing to the Disney + streaming service under special conditions. Customers of the Orange Livebox Max offer benefit from a €5 discount for life by subscribing to Disney +, this offer has already been in place since last October. Other TV customers will benefit from a promotion with the first month free to discover the Disney + service. Orange subscribers will continue to be able to watch the platform's programs on their decoder.

Access to Disney films 4 months after their theatrical release on the Orange VOD service  : Orange will offer, through its transactional VOD offer, the latest cinema releases from the Disney group studios (Disney, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar Animation, Marvel Studios, Lucasfilm, 20th Century Studios, and Searchlight Pictures) via the Orange VOD service.

Hélène Etzi, President of The Walt Disney Company France, said, “  We are very pleased to partner with Orange to make our iconic content and stories accessible to as many households as possible,” or 12.4 million French people. It remains to be seen whether other operators such as Free, SFR and Bouygues Telecom will try to reach an agreement with Disney.

The article was originally published by Univers Freebox

Warner Bros. Discovery To Separate Linear From Streaming And Studios

Warner Bros Discovery is to bring in a new corporate structure that will see the creation of two separate divisions, Global Linear Networks and Streaming & Studios.

The never-ending cycle of merger and demerger is described as being “designed to enhance its strategic flexibility and create potential opportunities to unlock additional shareholder value.”

The two divisions will both come under the corporate wing of Warner Bros Discovery, but ultimately this could lead to a spin off of the channel assets. A sale of linear channels in the Nordics and Poland is already under consideration and is a reflection of similar moves within the big US networks. The future is clearly in streaming service Max and the production that feeds it.

“Since the combination that created Warner Bros. Discovery, we have transformed our business and improved our financial position while providing world class entertainment to global audiences,” said Warner Bros. Discovery President and CEO, David Zaslav. 

“We continue to prioritise ensuring our Global Linear Networks business is well positioned to continue to drive free cash flow, while our Streaming & Studios business focuses on driving growth by telling the world’s most compelling stories. Our new corporate structure better aligns our organization and enhances our flexibility with potential future strategic opportunities across an evolving media landscape, help us build on our momentum and create opportunities as we evaluate all avenues to deliver significant shareholder value.”

Its expected the new structure will be in place by mid-2025.

Last month, Comcast confirmed the separation of NBCUniversal’s cable television networks including USA Network, CNBC, MSNBC, Oxygen, E!, SYFY and Golf Channel. It might be expected for a similar move to take place at Paramount Global once its new owners are in place.

BBC Studios’ Achieves Record Performance Across Africa And The Greater EMEA Regions

BBC Studios has unveiled record-breaking performance for its linear channel business today, with standout growth in Africa alongside remarkable results across EMEA.

 

In Africa, BBC Studios' linear portfolio on DStv, including BBC Lifestyle, BBC Brit, BBC UKTV, BBC Earth, and BBC News, has expanded its reach by +14% in 2024. This growth marks the highest-ever performance for CBeebies and BBC UKTV, while BBC Lifestyle achieved its best results since 2017. Additionally, BBC Primetime, a bespoke two-hour content block on SABC3, has increased its reach by an impressive 24% compared to the same period last year.

 

The success in Africa complements achievements across other regions:

 

• Netherlands: BBC First, BBC Studios’ premium drama channel in the Netherlands, has gone from strength to strength, with 2024 topping 2023 as its biggest year since launching in 2015. The channel has delivered a 2.3% 4+ market share to date in 2024, up +16% from last year.

• Poland: BBC Studios channel portfolio (BBC Earth, BBC Brit, BBC First, BBC Lifestyle and CBeebies) is also on track to deliver its highest share in 2024 (0.82%, 4+) since the portfolio launched in 2015, with BBC Earth and BBC First delivering the highest annual share ever in 2024.

• Nordics: BBC Nordic, BBC Studios multi-genre linear channel available in Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Iceland, has ranked as the biggest international channel in its competitive set in Norway in October and November. In November, the channel delivered the highest share since launch (1.2%, 4+), and the channel has seen a +53% increase in Share in 2024 compared to 2023, when it launched.

 

Arran Tindall, Chief Commercial Officer, EVP, EMEA Key Markets, commented, “2024 has been a record year for our channels business in EMEA. We have seen incredible numbers across our whole channel portfolio in the Netherlands, Poland, Africa and the Nordics, and I am extremely proud of the growth we have seen this year. This success is a testament to BBC Studios’ extensive breadth of high-quality content and the careful curation by our teams to deliver engaging schedules that resonate with local tastes and audiences in each of our markets.”

Canal+ Is Set To Become A Standalone Company After Shareholders Of Its Parent, Vivendi, Overwhelmingly Approved A Spinoff Plan

More than 97.5% voted to separate Canal+, ad business Havas and publisher Louis Hachette Group. They will begin trading on the London Stock Exchange, Euronext Amsterdam and Euronext Growth Paris, respectively, on December 16. About 72% of Vivendi shareholders were present at the vote.

Canal+ is known for its European pay-TV operations and is also the owner of Paddington in Peru‘s Studiocanal. It has been aggressively investing in international streamer Viu and Africa’s MultiChoice, and can now look forward to a more independent future, albeit still within the Vivendi group.

“We are delighted with the very high adoption rate of our spinoff project,” said Vivendi chairman Yannick Bolloré, whose family has led the demerger plan. “This indisputable result confirms this strong support of our shareholders for this transformative transaction.

“The Supervisory Board would like to warmly thank Arnaud de Puyfontaine and the whole Management Board, all the teams involved in this project, our different advisors and our shareholders for their trust. We are convinced that this new chapter for Canal+, Havas and Louis Hachette Group will be very promising and create value for all stakeholders.” 

Vivendi’s board gave the split the go-ahead a month ago, as part of a move to tighten finances and give its verticals more flexibility. Despite floating on the London Stock Exchange, Canal+ will remain incorporated and taxed in France, and will not be required to follow mandatory stock market regulations on public offers in either its home country or the UK.

The initial spinoff plan was to leave Canal+ with virtually no debt, but it is set to begin trading with debt of €400 million ($433 million), of which about €225M will be related to the company’s investment in African content giant MultiChoice, as revealed last month. Former Paramount Global CEO Bob Bakish will take a spot on the Canal+ board next week once trading begins.

Canal+ launched in 1984 and was acquired by Vivendi 16 years later as part of a transaction that saw it grouped with Universal. Vivendi sold its Universal assets to General Electric, which formed NBCUniversal by merging the production biz with broadcaster NBC.

JP Morgan estimates Canal+ to be worth €6 billion ($6.3 billion).

Disney Is Planning To Close Disney Channel, Star Channel, FX, Cinecanal, National Geographic And BabyTV In Brazil By February 2025

The renowned Brazilian journalist Ricardo Feltrín announced for the first time that Disney Channel, Star Channel, FX and National Geographic would be discontinued in Brazil in February 2025. This information was verified and complemented by journalist Pablo Simoes from the PortalTVeStreaming site, to whom it was also confirmed the end of Cinecanal and BabyTV, along with the official closing date of all these channels in the country: February 28, 2025.

Although it has not been confirmed whether these broadcast cessations will apply to the rest of Latin America, Pablo stated that Disney assured him that these changes will apply only to Brazil, although certainly the outlook is not entirely encouraging for those who still tune in to these channels in our region. . TVLaint attempted to get a direct response from Disney on the issue, but at the time of publishing this entry it has not received an official communication.

So far, the only thing that is known is that the decision will not impact the six ESPN channels present in Brazil. Sports signals will, for now, be Disney's only presence on Brazilian pay TV.

Although the measure is not surprising since Disney has been getting rid of its television signals around the world for more than four years in search of boosting its Disney+ streaming platform, it occurs in an ironic context considering that Disney Channel is usually the second children's channel most tuned in in Brazil, and Star Channel is the channel with the largest general audience only behind ESPN itself, according to Pablo's statements on his Twitter/X account.

It is a sad week for Disney Channel fans, since a few days ago it was announced that it would cease broadcasting in Spain after 27 years on the air, leaving fewer and fewer signs of the channel that gave so much joy around the world.

This massive closure of signals in Brazil is the most significant in Latin America since the beginning of 2022, when Disney discontinued the operations of the Star Premium suite and the basic TV channels Disney XD, Nat Geo Wild, Nat Geo Kids, FX Movies and Star Life, all in a period of less than three months. Curiously, on that occasion Disney stopped broadcasting Disney Junior in Brazil, but the channel continues to broadcast in the rest of Latin America to this day, with no plans to end. The contents of the preschool channel have since remained in a block on Disney Channel, which is not present in other countries.

A peculiar case is that of Cinecanal, which, although it already existed in Latin America, debuted in Brazil as a replacement for Star Life during the "massacre" of channels in 2022. Now, it will be one of the channels that will cease operations after almost three years in the air.

All content present on Disney Channel, Star Channel, FX, Cinecanal and National Geographic will remain exclusive to Disney+ in Brazil. BabyTV's content is the exception to the rule, which has an official and active channel on YouTube.

What Happened To Former Barbie's Former Rival Bratz?

With the resurgence of Barbie dolls through Greta Gerwig's Barbie, the natural next pick would be a look into the world of the Bratz doll. After all, in many ways, Barbie and Bratz became opposing rivals in the toy world for years.

Girls on the playground would often debate the merits of their favorite dolls. Sometimes, though, they would mix the two together and use their imagination to bridge the gap. With a recent look into Barbie, it begs the question: What happened to Bratz?

What happened to Bratz dolls?

Bratz dolls were released long after Barbie, debuting in 2001. But, they were created by a former employee of Mattel, the company that owns Barbie, so the competition between the two was immediate. Over the years, they've faced public backlash and ridicule.

Bratz dolls are still somewhat available, although they've been discontinued a few times. Not shockingly, Mattel slammed them with a lawsuit due to some similarities and copyright issues. After Bratz's parent company, MGA Entertainment, won the case, they lifted a pause that had been put on the brand.

They even launched a 10 year anniversary line with some modifications. In 2014, the line of the time wasn't available in North America and, when the company came back in 2015, they only lasted for a year before being discontinued again.

Why do people hate Bratz dolls?

The issues in regards to Bratz dolls vary depending on the person. Staunch Barbie lovers weren't happy with the seemingly copy cat creation, but their anger was put to rest when the litigation settled.

A major issue that the Bratz dolls faced was red flags about unrealistic beauty standards. Bratz dolls were very glam in nature, often wearing full faces of makeup. Plus, many argued that the body proportions and facial features were pushing a certain type of standard on young girls.

In fact, the last line of Bratz dolls' main criticisms was that the dolls were marketed towards young girls rather than tween and teen markets which were believed to be better suited to the more 'sexy' look. The adult-like portrayal left parents uncertain about handing over the toy to their kids.

Of course, the body standard argument didn't only apply to Bratz dolls as Barbie has often received the same sort of feedback. However, Barbie supporters often argue that her design is typically more reserved in fashion and that her storyline includes aspirational jobs meant to inspire young women.

Issues with Bratz dolls stemmed beyond just the design. The manufacturer was slammed with allegations of paying its factory workers a very low rate, around $0.515 an hour, according to a report from China Labor Watch.

MGA denied the allegations. After that, the company became ensnared in a variety of legal issues. Lady Gaga even took the company to court at one point, alleging that the company purposefully delayed the release of a doll that was supposed to look like her.

Over all, Bratz dolls certainly had their moment in early 2000s culture, but they haven't stood the test of time as well as brands like Barbie. They're still an option for kids today, but not as widespread.

This was originally published by Distractify

Video: Afrikaans Voice Actors For Ramo

Cartoon Network Celebrates The Winners Of The CN Climate Champions Schools Initiative

Cartoon Network has announced the winners of its CN Climate Champions Schools Initiative, a campaign that empowered children aged 6 to 12 across South Africa to combat climate change. The initiative saw enthusiastic participation from 250 schools spanning all nine provinces.

The campaign was inspired by a recent Cartoon Network survey revealing that:

• 94% of South African children are concerned about climate change

• 95% want to take action to address it

• 90% are eager to learn more about the issue

 

“At Cartoon Network, we are passionate about the power of small, everyday actions to create significant global impact,” said Monika Oomen, VP of Brand, Communications, and Digital Content Strategy for Kids EMEA at Warner Bros. Discovery. “The CN Climate Champions Schools Initiative has been instrumental in inspiring teachers and students to delve into, debate, and actively address climate change.”

 

The initiative provided schools with weekly themes on crucial environmental issues such as recycling, energy conservation, plant life, plastic pollution, and e-waste. Engaging content, including facts, videos, quizzes, and challenges, helped teachers integrate climate change topics into their classrooms.

 

Students actively participated in activities like rainwater harvesting, clothing recycling, and climate-focused presentations. Schools also submitted photos and videos of these activities for a chance to win weekly eco-friendly prizes.

 

A highlight of the initiative was the "creative upcycling" competition, challenging schools to create models or sculptures using recycled materials. The top ten schools received prizes, with the top three demonstrating exceptional innovation:

 

• Atholl Heights Primary School in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, took home first place with their charismatic recycling mascot, Penelope the Penguin. This student-built creation, crafted from recycled materials, embodies the school's dedication to recycling and climate change education. Penelope serves as a powerful visual reminder of the importance of environmental stewardship and the impact of climate change on vulnerable species like penguins. The project showcased the students' creativity, dedication, and commitment to making a positive impact on their school community.

• Rosehill Primary School in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, clinched second place with their multifaceted approach to sustainability. Already known for their environmental stewardship, the school created a vibrant garden oasis built entirely from recycled materials. Students crafted functional items like a water-saving irrigation system from recycled bottles and earbuds, demonstrating resourcefulness and ingenuity. The project extended beyond the garden, inspiring students to create practical items like pencil holders from recycled materials and fostering a school-wide culture of reducing, reusing, and recycling.

 

• Alipore Primary School in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, earned third place by tackling both food insecurity and sustainability with their innovative "Alipore Primary Big Build" project. Inspired by the Climate Champions Challenge, students constructed a vertical vegetable garden using recycled 5-litre bottles. This initiative not only provided a sustainable source of fresh produce for the school and community but also instilled a sense of environmental responsibility and community spirit among the students.

 

"We are incredibly proud of the enthusiasm and creativity displayed by students across South Africa," said Oomen. "The CN Climate Champions Schools Initiative proves the power of education and engagement in fostering environmental stewardship from a young age. Congratulations to all the winners and participants—your dedication to sustainability inspires us all."

 

The competition showcased the remarkable creativity and passion of young minds dedicated to eco-friendly innovations. Cartoon Network congratulates all participants for their commitment to protecting the planet for future generations.

The Story Of Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC)

Kentucky Fried Chicken, the national fried chicken chain known as KFC, is synonymous with Colonel Sanders, its mascot that appears in the logo and advertisements. In fact, Colonel Sanders is more than a mascot because he's actually based on the fast food chain's founder, Harland Sanders, who started the company and later opened the first KFC franchise restaurant near Salt Lake City, Utah, in 1952.

So, it might come as a surprise that Sanders had a falling out with the chain after he sold its 600-plus locations to former Kentucky governor John Y. Brown Jr. and another investor in 1964 for $2 million and an annual salary of $40,000. He seemingly had a good relationship with the company for a while because he continued to appear in ads and visit KFC locations as the chain grew in the U.S. and Canada. Despite that relationship, Sanders was unhappy with changes in the recipes and opened a new restaurant called Claudia Sanders, The Colonel's Lady Dinner House with his wife Claudia Sanders in 1968.

In 1971, KFC was absorbed by Heublein, and the company wasn't happy about the Colonel using his image with his new restaurant venture. Heublein took Sanders to court, but he ended up countersuing the conglomerate for more than $122 million in 1974. The lawsuit claimed that Heublein prevented Sanders from franchising his new restaurant and that it was unlawfully using his image for products he didn't develop. The lawsuit was eventually settled for $1 million and the couple was allowed to keep their eatery. 

KFC and Colonel Sanders' troubled history

However, that wasn't the only lawsuit between the two parties. During many of his appearances at KFC restaurants, Colonel Harland Sanders made it clear that he wasn't happy with how the chain had changed up its recipes for gravy and fried chicken. According to The New York Times, he allegedly referred to the gravy as "sludge." He even went on record in an interview with The Courier-Journal newspaper (via The Day) describing the chain's chicken breading as "a damn fried dough ball stuck on some chicken" among other insults. He further criticized how KFC made its gravy, referring to it as "wallpaper paste." 

The remarks led the company to sue Sanders in 1975 for libel and defamation. However, the lawsuit was unsuccessful because a judge ruled that his criticism came via newspapers and could not be regarded as direct libel. By then, Sanders and his wife had opened their own eatery under a new name called Claudia Sanders Dinner House, in Shelbyville, Kentucky.

The pair eventually sold the restaurant, though it still operates in its new location where you can enjoy dishes like fried chicken, catfish, and fried green tomatoes. Sanders died in 1980, but if you want to take a bite of his historic fried chicken made with KFC's secret blend of 11 herbs and spices still used today, there are over 25,000 KFC restaurants operating in more than 145 countries as of 2023.

The Origin Story Of DreamWorks' Spirit: Stallion Of The Cimarron

An inspiring story of survival, strength, friendship, and freedom, Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron is an all-time favorite movie for horse lovers of all ages. It follows a wild mustang as he fights for his freedom and that of his herd. The artistry, story line, and killer soundtrack work together to make a horse movie worth watching over and over.

It’s been 18 years since the original animated movie made its debut. You might have every line memorized, but did you know there is a real-life Spirit that inspired the fictional character?

Unlike other animated movies, Spirit is based on reality as much as possible. The horses don’t talk, and generalized events including the expansion of the railroad are based on fact, not fiction. Producers thought it was important to deliver a film that inspired viewers while melding the worlds of animation and real life. Achieving that goal would take more than clever animation. They needed artistry that could tell a story without dialogue and evoke emotions with each movement.

To do that, artists needed a model. They needed a real-life horse that would serve as inspiration and example. After a search, they found a Kiger mustang with beautiful conformation, coloring, and strength. His name was Donner, but these days, that real-life mustang goes by a different name: Spirit.

DreamWorks selected the now-named Spirit when he was a colt. Born to a stallion and mare that had been captured by the BLM in Oregon, Spirit was (and still is) a beautiful example of the Kiger mustang breed. His wide-set eyes and thick, wavy, multi-colored tail and mane became the inspiration for the animated horse that is still stealing hearts all these years later.

Before the 2002 movie made it to the big screen, animators spent countless hours observing Spirit. They watched how his muscles moved when he ran and how his face changed with his mood. With Spirit’s help, animators created an accurate equine character that looks and moves just like their live model.

When the movie was finished, DreamWorks chose Return to Freedom’s American Wild Horse Sanctuary to be Spirit’s permanent home. It’s been almost two decades since Spirit posed for animators, but the beautiful mustang we all love still serves as an advocate for Kiger mustangs and all of America’s wild horses. In fact, he recently celebrated his 25th birthday!

Like his animated character, the real-life Spirit is part of the fight to help wild horses maintain their natural habitats and freedom. While he lives at the sanctuary and loves interacting with people, Spirit is a prominent ambassador for wild horses. He engages youth around the world to learn more about America’s mustangs and every horse’s need for freedom and protection.

He lives on Return to Freedom’s headquarter facility in Santa Barbara County on 300 acres of pristine California pasture. From a young age he learned to be comfortable around people, but those who know him best say he has spunk and spirit similar to that of his fictional character. He’s grown to be an important part of the wild horse sanctuary, and he’s helping educate the public about his breed and ways humans can protect all of America’s wild horses.

With Spirit’s claim to fame, he attracts crowds of fans to his sanctuary home. During these visits, the real-life Spirit helps the sanctuary spread an important message about what’s currently happening to the country’s wild horses and what the public can do to help.

Spirit’s work in inspiring others has been recognized not only by the countless people he has met, but also by the EQUUS Foundation and the United States Equestrian Foundation. The organizations inducted Spirit into the Horse Stars Hall of Fame in 2018, and he continues to influence the sanctuary’s mission even decades after Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron was released.

Now 25 years old, the real-life Spirit is busy enjoying life at the sanctuary. He spends his days interacting with a few of his equine friends and enjoying attention and care from his favorite humans. He was born in captivity, but the spirit of independence and the wild west lives in his veins. And thanks to Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron, his image will continue to show others that freedom is always worth fighting for.

Cartoonito And CBC To Debut Upcoming Spin-Off To Hit Animated Series 'Dino Ranch' In 2026

Boat Rocker, an independent, integrated global entertainment company, today announced that it has greenlit Dino Ranch: Island Explorers, a spin-off of its hit preschool animated series Dino Ranch, with CBC/Radio-Canada and Warner Bros. Discovery onboard as broadcast partners. The new animated series (52 x 11 mins) will air on CBC, CBC Gem, CBC Kids YouTube, ICI TÉLÉ, ICI TOU.TV and Radio-Canada.ca in Canada and Warner Bros Discovery's Cartoonito across Europe, Middle East, and Africa in 2026.

Dino Ranch: Island Explorers sees the Cassidy Clan getting ready for the adventure of a lifetime, filled with humour, peril, and fun. It's time to trade their cowboy hats for explorer hats and head to the mysterious and exotic Dino Island. Uncle Jack Cassidy lives on the island which is teeming with brand new dinosaur species, humongous insects and prehistoric amphibians. Join Jon, Min, Miguel and their trusty dinos, as they explore the Island's dino filled jungle, active volcano, and the previously undiscovered world under the water. 

"We're thrilled to be producing Dino Ranch: Island Explorers, a premium animated preschool spin-off series that builds off the global success of Dino Ranch, continues our valued relationship with CBC/Radio-Canada in Canada, and adds a wonderful new partner for EMEA in Warner Bros. Discovery," said Jon Rutherford, President, Global Rights, Franchise, and Content Strategy, Boat Rocker Studios. "As a key franchise for Boat Rocker we're focused on continued worldwide expansion for the Dino Ranch brand across content sales, consumer products and digital."

"Working with our partners at Boat Rocker, we look forward to sharing the Cassidy Clan's new adventure with kids and families across Canada, as they explore life outside of the ranch," said Marie McCann, Senior Director, Children's Content, CBC Kids. "We know kids have dino-sized imaginations and will be totally inspired by the jaw-dropping underwater world created by Matt Fernandes and his amazing team."

Zia Sands, Director Content Acquisitions, Partnerships and Coproductions, Warner Bros. Discovery, Kids, EMEA, said: "Cartoonito provides a safe and trusted space for pre-schoolers and their family to engage with the characters they love, fun filled stories and a host of exciting new adventures. The spin-off series of Dino Ranch, complements the values and expectation of our preschool audience and we're very excited to be partnering with Boat Rocker on what we are sure will be a high-end production that will entertain and delight our Cartoonito audiences."

Previous seasons of Dino Ranch are airing globally now, including on CBC, CBC Gem, CBC Kids YouTube, ICI TÉLÉ, ICI TOU.TV and Radio-Canada.ca in Canada. The series has seen international sales in more than 170 countries and 15 languages worldwide, including the U.S (Disney Junior and Disney+), Latin America (Disney Junior), UK (Tiny Pop), France (Gulli), Germany (Super RTL), Spain (Clan), and Italy (Cartoonito). The series boasts global licensing deals across a range of categories and consumer products, including publishing and apparel.  

Dino Ranch: Island Explorers is created by Matt Fernandes (of Industrial Brothers) and produced by Industrial Brothers and Boat Rocker.

Boat Rocker manages global franchise development, including content distribution and consumer products. Animation services for the spin-off series will be provided by Jam Filled Entertainment.

This greenlight is part of Boat Rocker's content first strategy which sees the company focused on making targeted investments in the sourcing, production, and distribution of premium scripted, unscripted, and kids & family projects. Other upcoming series include Bet for Netflix and the recently announced international scripted co-productions, Video Nasty for BBC3 and WDR and Mix Tape for Foxtel's Binge.

The Controversial Life Of American Actor Mark Salling

Mark Salling was an American actor and musician who is best known for appearing on hit TV series Glee. The star died at the age of 35, weeks before he was due to be jailed after pleading guilty to two child pornography charges.

Who is Mark Salling?

Mark Salling was born in Dallas, Texas, on August 17, 1982, and was raised in a "strict Christian home".

He graduated from high school in 2001, before attending the Los Angeles Academy College of Music, where he gave guitar lessons to make a living.

After roles in films Children Of The Corn IV and The Graveyard, Salling was cast in the TV show Glee in 2008, playing American football star Noah "Puck" Puckerman.

During his six seasons on the show, his performances led to Salling being nominated for a Teen Choice Award for male Breakout Star.

What were the child porn charges faced by Mark Salling?

On October 4, 2017, Salling pleaded guilty to two counts of child pornography.

Police found 50,000 "sexually charged" images on the 35-year-old's computer, including pictures containing a pre-pubescent child.

While he was initially facing 20 years jail time, TMZ reported that prosecutors were looking for a sentence of between four and seven years with 20 years of supervised release.

Salling agreed to compensate the children in the photos to the tune of $50,000 each.

He was also required to enter a sex offender treatment programme as part of his plea deal.

The actor was initially caught after police were reportedly tipped off by one of the star's ex-girlfriends and he was arrested on December 29, 2015, but later released on $20,000 bail.

He was charged with receiving and possessing child pornography on May 27, 2016.

The case was referred to federal authorities after investigators realised the scope of the collection.

Lieutenant Andrea Grossman, commander of the LAPD Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, said: "It doesn’t matter who you are or what you do, if you hurt a child you will be held accountable."

She added: "These images are more than photographs, they are child abuse."

What was Mark Salling's cause of death?

On January 30, 2018, TMZ reported that Salling had taken his own life, just weeks before he was due to be jailed over child pornography charges.

His lawyer confirmed the death of the actor, who was found dead in a field close to where he lived and near a baseball field after a "welfare check" 911 call at 8.50am.

TMZ reported that a family member reported Salling missing at 3am on Tuesday, January 30.

According to the website, he was found hanged, with a coroner confirming in February 2018 his death was due to "asphyxia by hanging, suicide".

In a statement given to The Blast his family said: "Mark was a gentle and loving person, a person of great creativity, who was doing his best to atone for some serious mistake and errors of judgement.

"He is survived by his mother and father, and brother. The Salling family appreciates the support they have been receiving and asks for their privacy to be respected."

TMZ also reported that the actor had cut both his wrists in a suicide attempt weeks before his guilty plea.

He reportedly "freaked out" and called for his roommate, who contacted the emergency services.

Salling was rushed to hospital and taken to a rehab facility a few days later.

What did Mark Salling's ex girlfriend say about his death?

Actress Georgie Leahy was with Mark right up until his arrest for child-pornography.

She said she was having a manicure when the news broke.

"I collapsed in the nail salon," Leahy told The NY Post.

"What happened with Mark evoked so many complex feelings," she said.

"I didn't feel like I had permission to hurt because of everything he was accused of."

This was originally published by The Sun

Vivendi Board Gives Go-Ahead For Business Split & Sets December Shareholder Vote; Former Paramount CEO Bob Bakish To Join Canal+ Board

Vivendi‘s plan to split its business in three has gotten board approval and will be taken to a shareholder vote on December 9. Should it go ahead, former Paramount Global CEO Bob Bakish will take a seat on the Canal+ board.

The board has approved the resolutions that will be submitted to shareholders to vote on whether Canal+, ad business Havas and publishing house Louis Hachette Group should separate.

Should the demerger go ahead, Canal+ will begin trading with debts of €400M ($433M) and have a corporate team led by Yannick Bolloré, Chairman of the Supervisory Board, and Maxime Saada, Chairman of the Management Board and CEO. Jacques du Puy and Anna Marsh will both be Deputy CEO, and Amandine Ferré will be CFO.

Board members will include Bolloré, Arnaud de Puyfontaine and, intriguingly, U.S. entertainment veteran Bakish, who has been lying low since his exit as CEO of Paramount earlier this year in April. Bakish will comprise one of eight independent members on the 12-strong board.

The Canal+ and Louis Hachette elements of the split will require two-thirds majorities, while the Netherlands-based Havas part will just need a majority. This is due to the changes that will impact the corporate structures of the different businesses.

Should the plan get shareholder approval, the three businesses would begin trading separately on December 16. Each individual stake owner would see shares allotted on a one-to-one bases. In effect, each Vivendi shareholder who participates in the spin-off will receive one Canal+ share, one Havas share and one Louis Hachette Group share, while retaining their Vivendi share.

Under the new structure, Canal+ would be listed in the UK, Havas in the Netherlands and Louis Hachette on Euronext. Each company would operate separately with a “decision-making center of their activities, as well as their operational teams, in France.” Vivendi would remain on Euronext Paris.

Afrikaans Voice Actors For Blink Kant Bo And Op Dun v

Cartoon Network Celebrates Teen Titans GO! 400th Episode Milestone In November

The special stop-motion animated episode is set to premiere across all Cartoon Network global markets on 30th November.

Teen Titans Go!, the longest running animated series in DC history, is celebrating its 400th episode with a special global roll out across Cartoon Network on Saturday 30th November.

Festivities for the Warner Bros. Animation series officially kicked off at New York Comic Con with a special panel featuring executive producer and showrunner, Pete Michail, and the entire voice cast – Tara Strong (Raven), Greg Cipes (Beast Boy), Khary Payton (Cyborg), Hynden Walch (Starfire) and Scott Menville (Robin). Fans in attendance were treated to a special early screening of the 400th episode which comically features the Titans fighting for their television lives after Superman, in an effort to get their show cancelled, banishes them to the world of stop-motion animation.

Beginning in November, fans can join in on the 400th episode celebration with Cartoon Network hosting Teen Titans Go! dedicated programming on its channels across the US and EMEA. Cartoon Network on-air schedules will feature a takeover for the entire month of November airing ‘Every Episode Ever’ of Teen Titans Go!. The network takeover will also feature all-new custom promos, bumps and idents on-air, all culminating in the 400th episode special, premiering on 30th November.

Cartoon Network’s bespoke Roblox experience – Cartoon Network Game On! – has also launched two new mini-games in celebration of the 400th episode special, titiled Teen Titan Go! Treasure Hunt and Teen Titans Go! Capture the Flag. In Teen Titans Go! Treasure Hunt, users race against the clock to help the Teen Titans find some of their most treasured items that the heroes have lost, unlocking exclusive rewards in the process. Teen Titans Go! Capture the Flag brings the highly popular Roblox game mechanic into the world of Teen Titans Go!. The game will feature the five Teen Titans and also characters from The H.I.V.E Five. Both in-game activations are now live.

The celebration will continue into the new year when Beast Boy: Lone Wolf, an all-new short-form animated series, will premiere across Cartoon Network’s on-air channel and digitally via its YouTube channel in the UK this month, and in EMEA in 2025. Produced by Hanna-Barbera Studios Europe, Beast Boy: Lone Wolf is a series of action-comedy shorts following Beast Boy as he embarks on his first solo adventure to prove he can be a superhero without the Teen Titans. With every episode dedicated to a new villain for Beast Boy to fight, the series is sure to delight fans.

Disney Jr. Announces New Animated Series Marvel’s Iron Man and His Awesome Friends

Disney Jr. announced the greenlight for Marvel’s Iron Man and His Awesome Friends, the first preschool Iron Man series which will feature a young Tony Stark (Iron Man) and his world-saving besties, Riri Williams (Ironheart) and Amadeus Cho (Iron Hulk). The young trio work together to make the world a better place, protecting their city and each other.

From Disney Branded Television, the series is currently in production and slated for a summer 2025 premiere on Disney Jr. and Disney+. The new series is part of Disney and Marvel’s expanded strategy to introduce these iconic Avengers characters and stories to a new generation of fans.

“Iron Man is the character that launched Marvel Studios and will always be especially beloved here as the hero that made the MCU possible,” said Brad Winderbaum, Head of Streaming, Television and Animation at Marvel Studios. “That’s why we’re so excited to partner with the incredible team at Disney Branded Television and bring Iron Man to a new audience. Together we are building a series that introduces the most brilliant scientists and inventors in the Marvel Universe as they share in fun armored adventures.”

Ayo Davis, President, Disney Branded Television, commented, “We’re thrilled to introduce Marvel’s Iron Man and His Awesome Friends to preschoolers on Disney Jr. and Disney+, expanding their connection to the iconic Marvel universe. Partnering with Brad and the Marvel Studios team on this series allows us to bring the incredible legacy of Iron Man to a whole new generation, sparking young imaginations with characters that embody courage, teamwork, and creativity.”

Synopsis: Marvel’s Iron Man and His Awesome Friends follows the adventures (and misadventures) of best friends and super geniuses Tony Stark, Riri Williams and Amadeus Cho as they work together to solve problems both big and small and protect their city. To help them in their Super Hero endeavors, they each have their own Iron Suits that allow them to fly and give them each enhanced super-strength. In addition, Iron Man has a Nano-Shield; Ironheart has a Heartbeat Bubble forcefield to protect people, and Iron Hulk has his strong Iron Boom clap and Iron Hulk Stomp. They work out of their beachfront base, Iron Quarters (IQ), under the supervision of their superpowered android, Vision, and their furry pup, Gamma, who has her very own Iron Pup suit and accompanies the Iron Friends on many of their adventures.

The series stars Mason Blomberg (Shameless), Kapri Ladd (Danger Force) and Aidyn Ahn (Kids Say the Darndest Things) as the voices of Tony Stark/Iron Man, Riri Williams/Ironheart and Amadeus Cho/Iron Hulk, respectively. David Kaye (Transformers) voices the role of Vision, and Fred Tatasciore (Marvel’s Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur) voices Gamma. Additional characters and casting will be announced at a later date.

From Disney Branded Television, Marvel’s Iron Man and His Awesome Friends is executive produced by Sean Coyle (Puppy Dog Pals) and Harrison Wilcox (Marvel’s Spidey and His Amazing Friends). James Eason-Garcia (Pupstruction) is co-executive producer and story editor, Alex Cichon (LEGO Marvel: Spider-Man: Vexed by Venom) is supervising producer; Ashley Rideout (Marvel’s Spidey and His Amazing Friends) is producer, and Michael Dowding (Hello Ninja) is supervising director.

The series is produced by Disney Jr. and Marvel Studios in association with Atomic Cartoons.

NFL Is In Talks To Acquire Some Of Skydance's Assets Ahead Of Merger With Paramount Global

The National Football League is in talks with David Ellison’s Skydance Media and one of his major investors, RedBird Capital Partners, that could result in some of the league’s media assets changing hands, according to people familiar with the conversations.

The talks could include a sale of NFL Media and its NFL Network cable channel, or an acquisition by Paramount Global of the league’s interest in Skydance Sports, a joint venture that produces movies and TV shows, according to the people, who asked to not be identified because the discussions are private.

Paramount, which holds rights to broadcast NFL games, is in the process of merging with Skydance, an independent film and TV studio, in a deal expected to close next year. Paramount’s contract with the league includes a change of control provision that could allow the NFL to seek another media partner, the people said. The NFL’s deal with Paramount’s CBS network is worth about $2.1 billion a year through 2033.

Although it is unlikely that the NFL will seek to replace CBS as its broadcast partner, the provision has prompted a wider conversation about business opportunities between the league, Skydance and RedBird. The league is already in business with both parties and Commissioner Roger Goodell has praised Skydance in interviews.

In 2022, the NFL invested $45 million in Skydance Sports in a deal that valued the entity at about $100 million. Skydance and NFL Films produced a new season of HBO’s Hard Knocks documentary series, focusing on the New York Giants, this year. The two companies are also working on a 10-part documentary series on Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones.

The league and RedBird are partners in EverPass Media, which distributes the NFL Sunday Ticket games to bars and restaurants. RedBird is also an owner of the United Football League, which plays in the spring season. Larry Ellison, the father of the Skydance founder and one of the world’s richest men, has previously expressed interest in owning a professional football team.

The NFL has been shopping its media assets for a few years. NFL Media includes the league’s digital operations, the NFL cable network, the film unit and NFL RedZone, a subscription service. Walt Disney Co.’s ESPN sports division had been in talks about a potential deal that could have seen the company acquire NFL Media, giving the league a stake in ESPN in return. Those talks have stalled, however.

Vivendi Unveils New Corporate Structure For Canal+ Group

Some Vivendi-owned assets, whose operations are closely aligned with those of Canal+, are currently in the process of being transferred to the latter for the sake of consistency.

Canal+ will consolidate together with its current business GVA, which provides telecommunication services in Africa, including high-speed Internet access marketed under the brand Canalbox; the video streaming platform Dailymotion; the performance venues L’Olympia and the L’Œuvre theater in France as well as the cinema theaters CanalOlympia in Africa.

In this new configuration, Canal+ Group will represent a unique international media operation with exposure to both mature and high-growth markets. It would have recorded €6.2 billion in revenues,

€472 million in Adjusted Earnings Before Interest and Income Taxes (EBITA) and €315 million in Cash Flow From Operations (CFFO) for the year ended December 31, 2023.

Its total number of subscribers would amount to approximately 26.8 million at such date, of which 16.0 million outside of France (c. 60%). Between Dailymotion and the OTT platform myCanal, Canal+ Group would record a global audience of over 400 million monthly active users.

In recent years, Canal+ Group has made significant expenditure and investments amounting to approximately €1 billion annually in technology (including its broadcasting and streaming infrastructure, software development, CRM, etc.) to provide a highly distinctive and industry-leading customer experience on the myCanal and Dailymotion platforms.

The attached appendix sets out key figures of the new consolidation perimeter of Canal+.

Canal+ Group will have three operating segments:

• Canal+ Europe – encompassing the Group’s subscription-TV (including OTT) and advertising-supported free-to-air (FTA) TV businesses across France, the French Overseas and adjacent territories, Poland, Central Europe and Benelux (through its wholly-owned subsidiary M7) as well as telecommunication services in the French Overseas territories;

• Canal+ Africa & Asia – encompassing the Group’s subscription-TV and advertising-supported FTA TV businesses, GVA and CanalOlympia venues across French-speaking Sub-Saharan Africa as well as subscription-TV business in Vietnam, Myanmar and Pacific territories;

• Content Production, Distribution and Other – encompassing Studiocanal, Dailymotion, Thema1 as well as L’Olympia and the L’Œuvre theater.

Canal+ Group also holds a non-controlling 45.2% stake in MultiChoice with an ongoing mandatory takeover offer, a 36.8% stake in the OTT platform Viu and a 29.33% stake in Viaplay.

SuperSport And SABC Agree On Sub-Licensing Terms Of PSL Broadcast Rights

SuperSport and the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) have reached an agreement regarding the sub-licensing of Premier Soccer League (PSL) broadcast rights ahead of the start of the new Betway Premiership season.

 

The move comes after strong relations between the two South African broadcasters following the agreement of sub-licence agreements for the MTN8 tournament as well as the Currie Cup semi-final match which was contested this past weekend and upcoming final match.

 

The PSL saw the dawn of the new Betway Premiership last Saturday, 14 September 2024, with millions of fans seeing their favourite team content the biggest prize in South African football.

 

SuperSport CEO Rendani Ramovha said “The latest sub-licence agreement with the SABC is another step towards a strong relationship with the public broadcaster, for the benefit of the millions of football lovers across the country and the African continent. The PSL has proven itself time and again to be the most coveted football product among South Africans and we look forward to delivering another outstanding season of football action on Your World of Champions, SuperSport.”

SABC Group CEO Nomsa Chabeli said: “We are pleased with this acquisition, and it is another demonstration of our commitment to delivering exceptional sport content to our diverse audiences. Our rights package includes a total of 51 matches comprising of 23 Betway Premiership matches, 10 Carling Black Label Cup matches, 12 Nedbank Cup matches, and 6 National First Division matches. We will broadcast league matches every Saturday on SABC 1 during the league season, ensuring our audience has access to exciting live local football”.

 

 

 

Ms Chabeli further stated that “We will also be enhancing our coverage by strengthening the analysis team. This move will ensure that we provide insightful commentary and in-depth analysis for our viewers. The added new members to the team are Itumeleng Khune, Jabu Mahlangu as well as Coach Thabo Senong who will be joining our resident analysts Doctor Khumalo, Simphiwe Dludlu and Hlompho Kekana in studio”.

Paramount Television Studios Is Closing Down As Part Of Cost Cutting Procedure With Content Set To Merge With CBS Studios

PTVS’ shutdown will result in the exit of 20-30 employees. All current PTVS series and development projects will be folded into CBS Studios.

“To be clear, this is not a decision based on how PTVS performed. This move is the result of significant changes in the TV and streaming marketplace and the need to streamline our company,” Cheeks said. “Under Nicole’s leadership, this studio consistently punched above its weight in attracting top storytellers and stars to create best-in-class series. I want to thank every PTVS employee for shepherding a slate of shows that helped usher Paramount into the streaming era.”

Headed into the current wave of layoffs that will impact 15% of Paramount Global’s U.S. workforce over the next few months for $500M in savings, there had been chatter about Paramount TV Studios as a potential casualty following a string of downsizing/consolidation moves since CBS Studios and Paramount TV Studios were put together under Cheeks’ purview in the fall of 2022.

Both Cheeks and Clemens tried to assuage fears at the time by assuring PTVS staff that the division would remain independent from the larger CBS Studios as the two combined support operations by centralizing finance, law, production and casting. The same year, Paramount TV Studios absorbed Paramount+’s scripted originals team. (Word is more P+ layoffs may be coming after Labor Day.)

In the most recent round of layoffs in February, PTVS consolidated development and current under Head of Development Jana Helman, with a slew of senior programming executives leaving. It also dissolved/downsized communications, marketing and post-production which are now handled by CBS Studios. Prior to that, Clemens, a well-liked veteran executive, revealed that the studio was no longer going to produce limited series except for third-party buyers.

Also possibly factoring into the decision to shut down PTVS is Paramount Global’s pending merger with Skydance whose television division is very similar in scope and output to PTVS. The two companies have collaborated on such series as Reacher, Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan and the upcoming Cross.

Other notable series produced by PTVS over the years include 13 Reasons Why, The Alienist, Station Eleven, Time Bandits, and The Spiderwick Chronicles.

Speculation about CBS Studios and Paramount TV Studios combining has actually been around since the 2019 CBS-Viacom merger was announced. Launched by Paramount Pictures’ Brad Grey in 2013, Paramount TV Studios has been the smaller of the two and its volume was impacted when Paramount+ pared down its scripted originals ramp-up plans to stem streaming losses. The studio continued to sell to outside platforms.

In her note to staff, Clemens, who joined PTVS in 2018, reflected on the label’s legacy.

“Over the past 11 years, PTVS has weathered seemingly insurmountable obstacles through a combination of strength, determination, and unwavering commitment,” she said. “We met these challenges with incredible resilience, creativity, and passion for what we do, and I could not be prouder of our team. We’ve also had the privilege to collaborate with some of the most brilliant creative talent in the industry to help tell incredible stories seen around the world, entertaining and shaping culture.”

Here are the two memos:

Note from Nicole Clemens: President, Paramount Television Studios

Dear PTVS Family,

As you’re all aware, Paramount Global has made the difficult decision to close Paramount Television Studios as part of the company’s broader restructuring plans. This has been a challenging and transformative time for the entire industry, and sadly, our studio is not immune.

Over the past 11 years, PTVS has weathered seemingly insurmountable obstacles through a combination of strength, determination, and unwavering commitment. We met these challenges with incredible resilience, creativity, and passion for what we do, and I could not be prouder of our team. We’ve also had the privilege to collaborate with some of the most brilliant creative talent in the industry to help tell incredible stories seen around the world, entertaining and shaping culture.

Although Paramount Television Studios is ending, our ethos will live on in shows that will continue to be enjoyed by global audiences for years to come. We’ve cemented our legacy by shepherding some of the most influential, award-winning, and critically acclaimed shows in the streaming era with series like “13 Reasons Why,” “The Offer,” “Defending Jacob,” “The Alienist,” “The Haunting of Hill House,” “Station Eleven,” “Time Bandits,” and many more. We have broken streaming platform records with “Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan,” “Reacher,” and “The Spiderwick Chronicles.” Our upcoming shows, “Cross,” “Before,” and “Murderbot,” are sure to join the ranks of those hits.

This has been the most formative chapter in my career, and that is mainly due to the remarkable colleagues I have had the honor to lead and learn from on a daily basis. Thank you for supporting me, inspiring me, and laughing with me for the last six years — I wouldn’t have wanted to be in the trenches with anyone else.

I want to thank George Cheeks for his leadership and support through it all. There will undoubtedly be some tears as we move on, but this business is a marathon, and I am certain that we will cross paths, if not work together, again.

“Often when you think you’re at the end of something, you’re at the beginning of something else.” – Fred Rogers

With heartfelt gratitude,

Nicole

Note from George Cheeks: Co-CEO, Paramount Global and President & CEO, CBS

CBS Team,

As you saw from the email Brian, Chris and I sent earlier, this is a very difficult day at Paramount Global. I’m reaching out to share that today’s news unfortunately impacts CBS, including one of our studios.

A short time ago, we informed the team at Paramount Television Studios (PTVS) that the studio will cease operations at the end of the week. To be clear, this is not a decision based on how PTVS performed. This move is the result of significant changes in the TV and streaming marketplace and the need to streamline our company.

I want to thank PTVS President Nicole Clemens and the talented team she built for the many signature hits they produced. Under Nicole’s leadership, this studio consistently punched above its weight in attracting top storytellers and stars to create best-in-class series. I want to thank every PTVS employee for shepherding a slate of shows that helped usher Paramount into the streaming era.

Going forward, all current PTVS series and development projects will transition to CBS Studios.

In addition to PTVS, there are members of CBS teams who will be leaving the company. These are valued colleagues we admire and respect, whose talents contributed to the leadership position we enjoy today. I want to express my deepest gratitude for their contributions, hard work and dedication.

As we move forward, please keep these co-workers in your thoughts as our HR teams and their teammates help support them through this process.

There is a lot of news to unpack today. I know it’s unsettling. I continue to be impressed and grateful for our teams’ ability to stay focused and stick together during this transitional time.

George

America's TruTV Becomes TNT Sports In October

Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) has announced that it will rebrand TruTV’s primetime lineup as “TNT Sports” beginning this October, which could be a seismic shift for sports broadcasting and wrestling entertainment.

The news came from WBD CEO David Zaslav during the company’s Q2 earnings call. This move is seen as a potential win for All Elite Wrestling (AEW) amid ongoing talks about its future on WBD networks. Media analyst Brian Steinberg tweeted details of the rebranding strategy, noting that TruTV will transition to become a home for sports under the TNT banner.

According to sources, this new programming block will operate similarly to Cartoon Network’s Adult Swim block, which functions as its brand despite sharing channel space.

Strategic Sports Expansion

The focus on sports is timely for WBD after NBA broadcasting rights recently shifted to Amazon Prime.

With AEW potentially joining Ring of Honor (ROH) whose importance within AEW Khan said has not been overstated but was not yet confirmed for TV on WBD airwaves at some point soon, it would appear the company wants more hours of live sports content under its belt.

In fact, Fightful’s Sean Ross Sapp pointed out earlier today that AEW talents are being featured prominently in early promotions for “TNT Overdrive,” suggesting Khan’s team will play a key role in the new TNT Sports lineup that night -- and grow more influential within the broader sphere of televised athletics-entertainment.

At present, though, these are only good signs; Khan himself called talks with WBD “complicated," but recently expressed optimism following a meeting with Zaslav during the Olympics when reached by @SeanRossSapp. The exclusive negotiating window between parties expired yesterday, allowing AEW to engage with other networks unless/until WBD closes a deal.

Regardless of whether or not anything comes from current conversations between AEW and WBD, the ripples from this news could fundamentally change how wrestling is presented to audiences, aligning AEW with WBD’s rekindled focus on sports and entertainment.

Such an alliance would be expected to ensure All Elite Wrestling continues growing as a major player in the increasingly crowded field of televised athletics entertainment.

Discovery Family Undergoes A Major Restructure And Unveils New Rebranded Logo

Not to be mistaken with the factual entertainment channel of the same name on MultiChoice's DStv platform. Discovery Family which is also operated by Warner Bros. Discovery in a joint venture with Hasbro is responsible for the distribution of various kids shows and other educational content. 

Not long ago, Discovery Family updated its social platforms to unveil a new on air look with the name shortened to DFC. Basically taking a page of Boomerang and Boing feeds, the channel offers various content from Warner Bros. Animation and Cartoon Network Studios.

As pictured above, these includes shows like Summer Camp Island, Steven Universe,  The Smurfs, Sylvester & Tweety Mysteries and Looney Tunes while as returning the Hasbro portion of the brand with My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic. 

What's more mind boggling about this is the fact that Warner Bros. Discovery had already been licensing content to Weigel Broadcasting for their own kids channel, MeTV Toons. The financially challenged company is basically creating rivaling amongst their own stables. 

Aside from Warner Bros. and Hanna-Barbera, MeTV Toons is even licensing content from Universal Pictures, Paramount Pictures and MGM. This would make them an even stronger contender against the likes of Boomerang and Nicktoons whose offering has fallen off the scale.

Skydance is currently undergoing a potential takeover of Paramount Global with Warner Bros. Discovery exploring a possible split in assets. If anything, they don't care as much if MeTV Toons is luring consumers from their own channels as its all about money.

The rebrand of Discovery Family or DFC only illustrates the amount of division/dependency Warner Bros. Discovery gives these brands. Take for instance, Cartoon Network that's still runs a 24 hour service in other countries while America minimized this for Adult Swim.

Although Discovery Family runs as a children's channel some other countries operate this as Discovery Kids then Africa offers a channel of the same name with different programming. In short, where is the alignment in all this as you have 2/3 different channels with the same name.

Disney relies on ESPN for sports with factual entertainment on National Geographic while Paramount has reality and animation on MTV and Nickelodeon respectively. Then there's Warner changing the positioning of a TV channel from country to country. 

Paramount And Skydance Merger Facing A Class Action Lawsuit By A Shareholder

The suit, which was filed in Delaware court by Class B common stockholder Scott Baker, broadly alleges that controlling shareholder Shari Redstone forced through an “unfair” deal that benefits her and Paramount’s parent company National Amusements Inc (NAI) at the expense of Class B shareholders, who had no say in the deal.

The suit argues Redstone was intent on selling her interest in Paramount to Skydance “regardless of its impact on other Paramount shareholders.”

Through a unique ownership structure, the Redstone family’s holding company NAI owns 77% of the voting shares in Paramount, though it only holds a roughly 10% equity stake.

Under the proposed deal, Paramount’s Class B stockholders can cash out their shares at US$15. However, the suit alleges there isn’t enough money in the deal to buy out all of the non-NAI Class B shares. Instead, argues the suit, shareholders would get a mix of cash and Class B stock in the merged entity amounting to only US$12.23 per Class B shares.

The suit also alleges that Paramount’s board is “packed with Redstone insiders, over whom she exercises control,” and that Redstone has a history of controlling company boards and ousting directors in order to bring merger deals to fruition.

On the latter point, it cited the 2019 CBS-Viacom merger as an example of Redstone doing “everything in her power” to force a deal through, “even if it took her a couple of years and required ousting directors, packing boards of both merging companies with directors who would support her, and using NAI’s status as controlling shareholder to get what she wanted.”

In addition to Redstone, Paramount and NAI, the lawsuit also names Paramount board members Barbara Byrne, Linda Griego, Judith McHale, Charles Phillips and Susan Schuman as defendants, in addition to Skydance and its CEO David Ellison.

The filing of the lawsuit comes three weeks after Paramount and Skydance announced they had come to terms on a deal to form New Paramount following a lengthy negotiation process that saw several other bidders in the picture. The companies said they expect the transaction to close in the first half of 2025.

Through the deal, Skydance, which is backed by private equity firms RedBird Capital and KKR, will invest around US$2.4bn to acquire Paramount Global’s parent company, National Amusements, for cash and US$4.5bn for the stock/cash merger consideration to be paid for publicly traded Class A shares and Class B shares. It will also invest US$1.5bn to help improve Paramount’s balance sheet.

Ellison will serve as chairman and CEO of New Paramount, while Jeff Shell, the former NBCUniversal CEO who is currently chairman of sports and media at RedBird Capital, has been named president. Those appointments will become effective when the transaction closes.

The deal also includes a 45-day ‘go shop’ period, which allows Paramount to look for better offers before going with Skydance. However, going with another company would mean Paramount would have to pay Skydance a US$400m “breakup fee.” On Friday, billionaire Barry Diller, who emerged as a potential suitor last month, indicated that his company IAC was likely out of the running.

It had been widely assumed that the Paramount-Skydance deal would draw shareholder scrutiny and lawsuits, and there are expected to be several others filed in the coming months.

Primedia, Parent Company For 947 And Eyewitness News Reportedly Up For Sale

Private equity shareholders of Primedia are considering strategic options for their stakes in the South African broadcasting group, according to people with knowledge of the matter.

The company, owned by EPE Capital Partners, FirstRand, Old Mutual and the Mineworkers Investment Trust, has turned around under CEO Jonathan Procter, helping boost its valuation, said the people who asked not to be identified because the talks are private.

A jump in operating cash flow at Primedia makes it easier for the private equity firms to begin discussions with local and international companies, they said.

Primedia attracts interest from international and local investors from time to time

Interest in broadcasting firms in Africa — home to the youngest and fastest growing population in the world — has been on the rise in tandem with the surging use of mobile phones and declining data prices.

France’s Canal+ is in the process of acquiring DStv parent MultiChoice Group in a deal that values the company at R55-billion.

Primedia, the owner of Eyewitness News and Radio 702, is targeting a 25% increase in earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation to R1-billion in the near term, two of the people said. Improving finances at the broadcaster may value the firm at R6.4-billion to R9.2-billion, the people said.

Primedia “attracts interest from international and local investors from time to time”, the company said in an emailed response to queries. “These expressions of interest are considered by the board and shareholders, although no process has been announced by the board.”

Content

EPE Capital and Old Mutual Private Equity referred queries to Primedia. Rand Merchant Bank, a unit of FirstRand, and Mineworkers Investment didn’t respond to requests for comment. The process is still at an early stage and there’s no guarantee any deal will go ahead, the people said.

Primedia was founded in 1994 and operates in eight African countries including South Africa, Nigeria and Zimbabwe.

The company recently established a studio production business that holds the licensing rights to local versions of shows including the Masked Singer and Deal or No Deal.

The company has also started selling content to streaming services such as Netflix and Apple+, and opened a sporting business for advertising and sponsorships as it increasingly pivots the company to becoming more digital focused. 

Vivendi Posts First-Half Revenues Of $9.8 Billion, Bolstered By Canal+, Lagardere

Vivendi, the parent company of French pay TV banner Canal+ Group, saw its 2024 first-half revenues reach $98 billion, a 5.8% year-on growth. The media conglomerate also posted a 98.4% spike in second-quarter revenues.

Lagardère, the media, publishing and travel retail conglomerate which was acquired last year, as well as Canal+ Group, bolstered revenues. Vivendi also boasted an EBITA of $671 million — 39.3% up compared with the first half of 2023, driven by the consolidation of Lagardère and the growth of Havas. At constant currency and perimeter, EBITA increased by 13.5%, while adjusted net income reached $357 million.

Canal+ Group’s revenues went up by 4.6% to $3.2 billion, helped by TV operations in mainland France and overseas. Revenues from Canal+’s film and TV group Studiocanal also increased by 8.6%, thanks in part to the performance of Amy Winehouse biopic “Back to Black” which was released on April 24 and has sold around the world.

Under the leadership of CEO and chairman Maxime Saada, Canal+ has also increased its interest in Scandinavian pay TV banner Viaplay to 29.33%, becoming its largest shareholder; and recently took a stake in leading Senegalese production company Marodi TV. Canal+ has also made a tender offer to buy the African service MultiChoice Groups.

Asia is also part of Canal+’s international expansion plans. The company has increased in the leading Asian OTT service Viu to 36.8% and is now looking to have it go up to 51%.

Back in France, Canal+ Group has bought OCS, pay-TV package and Orange Studio, the film and series co-production subsidiary. Some of the new editorial developments include the creation of Studiocanal Stories, a new label dedicated adapting literary works into films and TV series in France and several European countries. Canal+ Group is also continuing to strike deals and partnerships with big U.S. players, including Warner Bros. Discovery which signed a distribution agreement with the French banner for its standalone streaming service Max.

Vivendi’s management board gave an update on the group’s plan to split into three separate entities and list assets. Under current plans, Canal+ will be listed at the London Stock Exchange, Havas at the Euronext Amsterdam, and an entity which will bring together publishing and distribution, including Louis Hachette Group, at the Euronext Growth Paris. Vivendi will remain listed on Euronext Paris.

Vivendi said Canal+ and Havas will maintain their leadership and operational teams at the Paris headquarters, and they will also remain French tax residents for French corporate income tax purposes.

Yannick Bolloré, chairman of Vivendi’s Supervisory Board, said the group’s half-year results were “driven by our three main businesses, which contributed to organic revenue growth of nearly 6% and organic EBITA growth of 13.5%.”

Arnaud de Puyfontaine, Vivendi CEO, meanwhile, said its “various businesses have demonstrated their dynamism, both in terms of organic growth and acquisitions, the strength of their respective business models and their ability to transform and adapt to their environment and the expectations of their customers.” The executive said the group is currently “strengthening its international positions.”