Richard Rushfield

Talk about whiplash: A week ago, a Netflix–Warner Bros. deal looked likely. Turns out, the winning combo may be… Paramount Skydance Warner Bros. Discovery. (Rolls right off the tongue.) That is — if it survives regulatory scrutiny, with California Attorney General Rob Bonta warning that the merger is “not a done deal.” Still, a swirl of questions remains — all driven by a strategy executives aren’t quite saying out loud: cut billions in costs, merge the streaming platforms (creating clear winners and losers), squeeze what’s left of the cable business for cash and use the scale of a combined studio to survive a rapidly shrinking TV ecosystem. And all that Middle East money? Sure, nothing to see here. Elaine Low, Natalie Jarvey, Sean McNulty and Lesley Goldberg break it all down. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this engaging discussion, Richard Rushfield, a savvy writer for The Ankler, reflects on Hollywood's recent disasters and the hope for its future. He’s joined by Tony Gilroy, the showrunner of Andor, and Diego Luna, who shines as Cassian Andor. They delve into the ambitious storytelling in Andor's final episodes, exploring how it brilliantly merges cinematic qualities with series format. The trio also touches on the evolving landscape of film and TV, including the struggles of studios, superhero fatigue, and the revival of independent filmmaking.

Guests Peter Aronson and Richard Rushfield discuss the calamitous results of chasing the Netflix streaming model. They delve into smear tactics in politics, distortion of facts in the entertainment industry, failure of leadership in Hollywood, the impact of businesses like Netflix on the cable industry, and the history of conflict and deception in negotiations.

Julie Menon, the incoming New York City Council Speaker, discusses her commitment to consumer rights and universal child care, alongside her shift from the Progressive Caucus. David Miliband, CEO of the International Rescue Committee, examines the alarming humanitarian crises highlighted in the IRC's report, noting significant aid cuts and their devastating toll. The segment concludes with Richard Rushfield celebrating Rob Reiner's impactful career, inviting listeners to share their favorite memories of the beloved filmmaker.

Richard Rushfield, chief columnist at The Ankler, dives into the lasting impact of Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, who recently passed away. Rushfield highlights Reiner's unique blend of warmth and humor in storytelling, recalling iconic films from The Princess Bride to Spinal Tap. He reflects on Reiner's activism, particularly in education funding, and encourages listeners to connect personal experiences with broader issues of mental health. The conversation is filled with tributes and memorable clips, showcasing Reiner's immense legacy.

Join Bill Kristol, a political analyst with a wealth of anecdotes, Richard Rushfield, a Hollywood columnist exploring Reiner's career, and David Weigel, a film enthusiast bringing cultural insights as they celebrate Rob Reiner's legacy. They share personal connections to his films and discuss his reputation as a kind figure in Hollywood. The panel reflects on Reiner's evolution from TV actor to a director of iconic films like The Princess Bride and A Few Good Men, and his significant political activism, capturing the warmth and hope that characterize his work.

Richard Rushfield, founder of The Ankler and expert on studio business dynamics, joins the discussion on the frenzy over Warner Bros. Discovery's potential acquisition. The podcast explores the big players—Netflix, Paramount Skydance, and Comcast—who are circling like hawks. Discussion includes which studio executive would best lead the merged entity and the troubling implications of consolidation in Hollywood. Rushfield passionately argues for alternatives to studio takeovers, emphasizing the need for creativity and competition over conglomeration.

Richard Rushfield, an entertainment insider and founder of The Ankler, and Sean McNulty, a media business analyst, delve deep into the six days that turned Disney and late-night TV upside down. They discuss Jimmy Kimmel's controversial return and the implications for free speech amid FCC threats. The duo analyzes political pressures from figures like Trump and their impact on affiliate deals. They explore Disney's internal decision-making and how these events might reshape talent relationships and Kimmel's future at ABC.

Richard Rushfield, editorial director and columnist for The Ankler, shares his insights on the drastic Warner Bros. split, highlighting the shifting dynamics of Hollywood amidst the rise of streaming services. He discusses the industry’s leadership challenges and its struggle to adapt to technological advancements while wrestling with a decline in traditional television. Rushfield also critiques the disconnect between studio executives and storytelling, revealing the industry's pervasive cynicism toward change and innovation. A thought-provoking take on Hollywood's uncertain future!

Shawn Ryan signs big Netflix deal as overall deals trend upwards. Discussing Paramount's struggles, movie theaters, and industry growth. Dive into showrunner financial responsibility and movie habits in Middle America. Explore theater comfort and film lengths, Pixar's success, and a new movie release.