Strictly Business

Rebecca Rubin, Senior film and media reporter at Variety, dives into the dismal box office turnout of Halloween weekend 2025. She explains how the combination of no major releases and competing events like the World Series led to staggering declines in theater attendance. October is highlighted as the worst month since 1997 for grosses, with several big-budget films missing the mark. The conversation also touches on Mark Walter's rise as a major force in L.A. sports, owning the Lakers and Dodgers, and a glamorous LACMA Gala featuring Cindy Crawford and Kaia Gerber.

Join Chris Dinan, executive producer of ABC News' World News Tonight, and Lindsay Davis, anchor for ABC News Live Prime, as they discuss adapting to remote production during COVID. Vin DeBona shares the challenges of creating 'At Home with AFV' using Zoom, while Jason Kurtz recalls launching 'The Drew Barrymore Show' amid uncertainty. They reflect on technical innovations, emotional tolls, and the lasting impacts of remote work on the industry. Discover how empathy shaped leadership in unprecedented times!

Naveen Sarma, Managing Director and U.S. media & telecom sector lead at S&P Global, shares valuable insights into the ever-evolving media landscape. He discusses the impact of high consumer demand for content on sector stability amid monetization challenges. AI's potential savings in production also come under the spotlight, along with Netflix's dominant role in streaming profitability. Additionally, Sarma evaluates Disney Plus's international growth prospects, advertising trends, and the implications of interest rates on M&A activity in the media sector.

On today's episode, Variety's Haley Kluge and Jennifer Dorn discuss how they produce Variety’s amazing Power of Women visuals year after year. And Marc Malkin brings us updates on "disgusting" things happening on Season 2 of “The Pitt” in a Red Carpet Rundown with stars Noah Wyle and Katherine LaNasa.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ethan Schoenfeld, a Variety reporter renowned for his in-depth coverage of Sean 'Diddy' Combs's federal trial, shares insights into Diddy's shifting place in pop culture and his uncertain future following prison. They discuss the unlikely possibility of a presidential pardon and the implications of a potentially mismanaged prosecution. Additionally, a fun Red Carpet Rundown features Hilary Duff, who teases her music comeback and an exciting new docuseries. It's a mix of legal drama and celebrity updates!

On today’s episode, Variety's Rebecca Rubin explains why “Chainsaw Man” topped “Deliver Me From Nowhere” to lead the box office this weekend. And Nick Vivarelli reports on the scene in Lucca, Italy, where he’s covering a fan event that is bigger than San Diego Comic-Con.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Salome Hailu, a Variety reporter known for her sharp insights into TV and film, discusses Rachel Sennott’s rise as a multihyphenate talent behind HBO's "I Love L.A." She explores the show’s authentic portrayal of modern Los Angeles and Sennott's unique creative vision. Meanwhile, Gianna Levy, a keen reality-TV commentator, dives into the addictive dynamics of Netflix's "Love Is Blind." She unpacks the show's intriguing pod dating concept and reflects on the drama and revelations from the latest season.

Marco Bassetti, CEO of Banijay and brains behind hits like MasterChef, discusses navigating the production landscape at Mipcom. He shares insights on Banijay's focus on profits, the complexities of integrating Endemol Shine during COVID, and the strategic importance of retaining IP for negotiation leverage. Bassetti also tackles the challenges of launching new original content in today's market, Banijay's cautious steps into film production, and their exciting foray into the creator economy with new initiatives.

Celebrate Johnny Carson's centennial as his transformation from a local TV host to a national icon unfolds. Discover the beginnings of his career, including his early show and initial coverage by Variety. Delve into his sharp political humor and critiques of American television. Unearth the fierce competition for The Tonight Show and the behind-the-scenes contract negotiations. Finally, relive the poignant moments of his farewell, marked by tributes from star-studded guests. A nostalgic look at a legendary figure.

Brent Lang, an entertainment reporter for Variety specializing in film festivals, shares insights on the future of the Sundance Film Festival as it prepares for its last hurrah in Park City before relocating to Boulder in 2027. He discusses the festival's evolving mission amid the streaming boom, venue changes, and the financial motivations behind the move. Additionally, the conversation explores the rising trend of adapting vintage board games like Monopoly and Catan into TV shows, highlighting creative strategies for successful adaptations.