25 years ago “Strangers with Candy,” currently streaming on Paramount+, premiered on Comedy Central from the brains of Stephen Colbert, Paul Dinello, Mitch Rouse, and Amy Sedaris. Sedaris also starred as Jerri Blank, the 46-year-old bisexual junkie returning to high school as a freshman. The sitcom was structured like an after-school special with Jerri rarely learning from her past mistakes as she navigates the lessons of being a teenager all over again. I began watching the show in college, after recognizing it from flipping through the TV channels because Sedaris’ Jerri in passing freaked me out.
Its psychotic humor coupled with my own favorite genre — the high school comedy — was a perfect cyanide comedy cocktail. Aggressively offensive with an earnest heart of gold, “Strangers with Candy” was unlike anything I’d ever seen before and Amy Sedaris became my comedy hero.
It’s, frankly, a miracle that “Strangers with Candy” was made,...
Its psychotic humor coupled with my own favorite genre — the high school comedy — was a perfect cyanide comedy cocktail. Aggressively offensive with an earnest heart of gold, “Strangers with Candy” was unlike anything I’d ever seen before and Amy Sedaris became my comedy hero.
It’s, frankly, a miracle that “Strangers with Candy” was made,...
- 4/12/2024
- by Kerensa Cadenas
- Indiewire
John Mulaney is back on top of the stand-up comedy world following the release of “Baby J,” his new Netflix special that digs into his recent addiction relapse and subsequent return to sobriety. The special has earned rave reviews for the honesty and vulnerability Mulaney displays, with many viewing it as a warning about the dangers of American celebrity culture.
Mulaney’s press tour to promote the special has seen him take a trip down memory lane, recalling his rise to prominence and some of the high profile opportunities that he missed out on over the years. Appearing on Doug Herzog and Jen Chaney’s “Basic” podcast (via The Hollywood Reporter), the comedian said that he was considered as a potential host of The Daily Show after Jon Stewart vacated the job in 2015. He explained that the offer came right after his ill-fated multi-camera sitcom “Mulaney” aired on Fox.
“It...
Mulaney’s press tour to promote the special has seen him take a trip down memory lane, recalling his rise to prominence and some of the high profile opportunities that he missed out on over the years. Appearing on Doug Herzog and Jen Chaney’s “Basic” podcast (via The Hollywood Reporter), the comedian said that he was considered as a potential host of The Daily Show after Jon Stewart vacated the job in 2015. He explained that the offer came right after his ill-fated multi-camera sitcom “Mulaney” aired on Fox.
“It...
- 4/29/2023
- by Christian Zilko
- Indiewire
“The Daily Show with John Mulaney”? It almost could have happened, at least according to John Mulaney.
Speaking to Doug Herzog and Jen Chaney on their podcast “Basic!” Mulaney revealed he was approached to replace Jon Stewart as “The Daily Show” host back in 2015.
“It was shortly after the ‘SNL’ 40th anniversary,” Mulaney said. “I had a sitcom on Fox. They’d aired all 13 [episodes], but it was canceled. It didn’t do good numbers, but at least critics reviled it. So, it was a fun time.”
As Mulaney recalled, former Comedy Central boss Kent Alterman broached the subject of stepping in for Stewart.
“I was extremely flattered that y’all were asking me about it,” Mulaney said. “I sensed they would be big shoes to fill. I think I also was gun-shy from putting myself out there at that moment after the Fox run. And I sensed all eyes would...
Speaking to Doug Herzog and Jen Chaney on their podcast “Basic!” Mulaney revealed he was approached to replace Jon Stewart as “The Daily Show” host back in 2015.
“It was shortly after the ‘SNL’ 40th anniversary,” Mulaney said. “I had a sitcom on Fox. They’d aired all 13 [episodes], but it was canceled. It didn’t do good numbers, but at least critics reviled it. So, it was a fun time.”
As Mulaney recalled, former Comedy Central boss Kent Alterman broached the subject of stepping in for Stewart.
“I was extremely flattered that y’all were asking me about it,” Mulaney said. “I sensed they would be big shoes to fill. I think I also was gun-shy from putting myself out there at that moment after the Fox run. And I sensed all eyes would...
- 4/29/2023
- by Christopher Rosen
- Gold Derby
John Mulaney wishes he would’ve been asked to host The Daily Show five years after he was.
The comedian, whose new special John Mulaney: Baby J is now on Netflix, recently discussed being asked to host the Comedy Central talk show after Jon Stewart left in 2015.
“It was shortly after the SNL 40th anniversary,” Mulaney said during an appearance on Doug Herzog and Jen Chaney’s Basic! podcast. “I had a sitcom on Fox. They’d aired all 13 [episodes], but it was canceled. It didn’t do good numbers, but at least critics reviled it. So, it was a fun time.”
The Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers voice star recalled when then-president of Comedy Central, Kent Alterman, asked Mulaney if he wanted to take on the hosting role following Stewart’s departure.
“I was extremely flattered that y’all were asking me about it,” Mulaney said. “I sensed they would be big shoes to fill.
The comedian, whose new special John Mulaney: Baby J is now on Netflix, recently discussed being asked to host the Comedy Central talk show after Jon Stewart left in 2015.
“It was shortly after the SNL 40th anniversary,” Mulaney said during an appearance on Doug Herzog and Jen Chaney’s Basic! podcast. “I had a sitcom on Fox. They’d aired all 13 [episodes], but it was canceled. It didn’t do good numbers, but at least critics reviled it. So, it was a fun time.”
The Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers voice star recalled when then-president of Comedy Central, Kent Alterman, asked Mulaney if he wanted to take on the hosting role following Stewart’s departure.
“I was extremely flattered that y’all were asking me about it,” Mulaney said. “I sensed they would be big shoes to fill.
- 4/29/2023
- by Christy Piña
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
John Mulaney is answering questions about being asked by Comedy Central executives if he was interested in hosting “The Daily Show” when Jon Stewart bowed out in 2015.
During a recent appearance on Doug Herzog and Jen Chaney’s “Basic!” podcast, Herzog — who was president of Viacom Music and Entertainment Group, which oversaw Comedy Central, until 2017 — asked Mulaney if he recalled the conversation he had with then-president of Comedy Central, Kent Alterman, about potentially taking over. “I think we were floating your interest in that and you were very lukewarm as I remember,” Herzog said.
Mulaney explained that he ultimately passed because, in part, his Fox sitcom “Mulaney” had just been canceled after only one season.
“It was shortly after the SNL 40th anniversary. I had a sitcom on Fox. They aired all 13 [episodes] but it was canceled. It didn’t do good numbers,” Mulaney said. “I remember going to dinner with Kent.
During a recent appearance on Doug Herzog and Jen Chaney’s “Basic!” podcast, Herzog — who was president of Viacom Music and Entertainment Group, which oversaw Comedy Central, until 2017 — asked Mulaney if he recalled the conversation he had with then-president of Comedy Central, Kent Alterman, about potentially taking over. “I think we were floating your interest in that and you were very lukewarm as I remember,” Herzog said.
Mulaney explained that he ultimately passed because, in part, his Fox sitcom “Mulaney” had just been canceled after only one season.
“It was shortly after the SNL 40th anniversary. I had a sitcom on Fox. They aired all 13 [episodes] but it was canceled. It didn’t do good numbers,” Mulaney said. “I remember going to dinner with Kent.
- 4/28/2023
- by Marc Malkin
- Variety Film + TV
“We’re doing this totally independent, we don’t even have a distributor,” Independent Spirit Awards host Hasan Minhaj said from the broadcast-less Santa Monica Beach tent Saturday afternoon.
“The Independent Film Channel didn’t want the independent film awards!” Minhaj continued.
“Take that in. IFC did not renew their contract. Let me reiterate how bad this is. The independent film channel did not want the independent film awards. That’s like if Jordan Peterson cut ties with divorced men,” he dinged.
Related Story Spirit Awards: ‘Everything Everywhere All At Once’ Takes Best Feature, Dominates Top Film Prizes; ‘The Bear’, Quinta Brunson Score In TV – Full Winners List Related Story How To Watch Saturday's Film Independent Spirit Awards Online Related Story Oscar Week 2023 Parties & Events: The List
“I actually looked up what IFC chose to air right now instead of us. Any guesses? Semi-Pro starring Will Ferrell and Woody Harrelson.
“The Independent Film Channel didn’t want the independent film awards!” Minhaj continued.
“Take that in. IFC did not renew their contract. Let me reiterate how bad this is. The independent film channel did not want the independent film awards. That’s like if Jordan Peterson cut ties with divorced men,” he dinged.
Related Story Spirit Awards: ‘Everything Everywhere All At Once’ Takes Best Feature, Dominates Top Film Prizes; ‘The Bear’, Quinta Brunson Score In TV – Full Winners List Related Story How To Watch Saturday's Film Independent Spirit Awards Online Related Story Oscar Week 2023 Parties & Events: The List
“I actually looked up what IFC chose to air right now instead of us. Any guesses? Semi-Pro starring Will Ferrell and Woody Harrelson.
- 3/4/2023
- by Anthony D'Alessandro and Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
Inside Amy Schumer is back — and this time the comedian is a mother, advocate, patriot, artist, astronaut, gardener, dancer, sleuth, bachelorette, professional, yeller, contractor, dog lover, patient, tree and, well, farter.
After six years on hiatus, the award-winning sketch series returns this October with five new stand-alone episodes that will roll out weekly on Paramount+, with the majority of the show’s original staff at the helm.
“Whatever kind of experience you are looking for, you can find it here,” Schumer says at the beginning of a new season five trailer for Inside Amy Schumer that shows her take on several different careers.
When asked why Inside Amy Schumer went on hiatus, Schumer previously explained to The Hollywood Reporter that when Donald Trump became president, she felt “totally depressed and without anything helpful to say” on the series.
Had Trump not been elected president,...
Inside Amy Schumer is back — and this time the comedian is a mother, advocate, patriot, artist, astronaut, gardener, dancer, sleuth, bachelorette, professional, yeller, contractor, dog lover, patient, tree and, well, farter.
After six years on hiatus, the award-winning sketch series returns this October with five new stand-alone episodes that will roll out weekly on Paramount+, with the majority of the show’s original staff at the helm.
“Whatever kind of experience you are looking for, you can find it here,” Schumer says at the beginning of a new season five trailer for Inside Amy Schumer that shows her take on several different careers.
When asked why Inside Amy Schumer went on hiatus, Schumer previously explained to The Hollywood Reporter that when Donald Trump became president, she felt “totally depressed and without anything helpful to say” on the series.
Had Trump not been elected president,...
- 10/6/2022
- by Christy Piña
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Click here to read the full article.
Finding a new host for The Daily Show wasn’t on anyone’s to-do list at Comedy Central. Not anytime soon, anyway. That changed Sept. 29, as the face of the network’s late night franchise, Trevor Noah, revealed on air that he’d be stepping down after seven years in the role. Until then, executives including Noah’s boss, MTV Entertainment Group CEO Chris McCarthy, who’d had lunch with Noah the previous day, believed he would be staying put at least through the 2023-24 season. After all, he had re-upped his eight-figure deal for two more years at parent company Paramount Global in June. Then, in a stunning twist, Noah announced that he was done.
“We were completely shocked,” says one high-ranking insider, with others there acknowledging they’d watched Noah’s signoff with mouths agape. The South African comedian, who gathered...
Finding a new host for The Daily Show wasn’t on anyone’s to-do list at Comedy Central. Not anytime soon, anyway. That changed Sept. 29, as the face of the network’s late night franchise, Trevor Noah, revealed on air that he’d be stepping down after seven years in the role. Until then, executives including Noah’s boss, MTV Entertainment Group CEO Chris McCarthy, who’d had lunch with Noah the previous day, believed he would be staying put at least through the 2023-24 season. After all, he had re-upped his eight-figure deal for two more years at parent company Paramount Global in June. Then, in a stunning twist, Noah announced that he was done.
“We were completely shocked,” says one high-ranking insider, with others there acknowledging they’d watched Noah’s signoff with mouths agape. The South African comedian, who gathered...
- 10/5/2022
- by Lacey Rose and Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exclusive: Hulu Originals today named Kelci Parker to the newly-created role of Vice President, Animation as the streamer continues to expand its slate of adult animated originals.
In her new role, Parker will oversee both development and current programming efforts and will report to Jordan Helman, head of scripted content, Hulu Originals. Series in the adult animated space under the Hulu Originals banner include Koala Man, Solar Opposites, Hit-Monkey, and Futurama.
Parker joined Hulu in July of 2020, and has served as the lead development/current programming executive on Hulu’s most watched comedy Only Murders in the Building, as well as Life and Beth, How I Met Your Father and the Marvel animated projects Modok and Hit-Monkey. She also cultivated relationships with up-and-coming comedic talent including Dewayne Perkins, Caleb Hearon, Holmes Holmes, Naomi Ekperigin, Biniam Bizunah, and Opey Olagbaju.
In November 2021, Parker was promoted to VP of comedy originals at Hulu.
In her new role, Parker will oversee both development and current programming efforts and will report to Jordan Helman, head of scripted content, Hulu Originals. Series in the adult animated space under the Hulu Originals banner include Koala Man, Solar Opposites, Hit-Monkey, and Futurama.
Parker joined Hulu in July of 2020, and has served as the lead development/current programming executive on Hulu’s most watched comedy Only Murders in the Building, as well as Life and Beth, How I Met Your Father and the Marvel animated projects Modok and Hit-Monkey. She also cultivated relationships with up-and-coming comedic talent including Dewayne Perkins, Caleb Hearon, Holmes Holmes, Naomi Ekperigin, Biniam Bizunah, and Opey Olagbaju.
In November 2021, Parker was promoted to VP of comedy originals at Hulu.
- 6/30/2022
- by Lynette Rice
- Deadline Film + TV
Amazon-owned Audible is continuing its effort to boost its entertainment quotient, hiring PopTV president Brad Schwartz as chief content officer.
Schwartz, who is leaving ViacomCBS after seven years at the helm of Pop and its predecessor TV Guide Network, will start June 15 and report to CEO Bob Carrigan, who joined Audible last December.
In addition to running Pop, the ViacomCBS cable network known for Schitt’s Creek, Schwartz also has held executive posts at Msg Media and Bell Media. As an Svp at Fuse (which was formerly owned by Msg), he shepherded shows including Billy on the Street.
“As Audible continues to expand its focus on premium audio storytelling and entertainment across all formats and genres, Brad’s highly successful track record, expertise and stellar relationships in the entertainment community will be integral to our aggressive content efforts and plans,” Carrigan said. “Brad brings not only a wealth of experience...
Schwartz, who is leaving ViacomCBS after seven years at the helm of Pop and its predecessor TV Guide Network, will start June 15 and report to CEO Bob Carrigan, who joined Audible last December.
In addition to running Pop, the ViacomCBS cable network known for Schitt’s Creek, Schwartz also has held executive posts at Msg Media and Bell Media. As an Svp at Fuse (which was formerly owned by Msg), he shepherded shows including Billy on the Street.
“As Audible continues to expand its focus on premium audio storytelling and entertainment across all formats and genres, Brad’s highly successful track record, expertise and stellar relationships in the entertainment community will be integral to our aggressive content efforts and plans,” Carrigan said. “Brad brings not only a wealth of experience...
- 6/11/2020
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
Sarah Babineau, who in recent years enjoyed a heady rise at Comedy Central, is slated to depart the ViacomCBS network by the end of the year, the latest executive to leave entertainment operations at the parent company as it continues to work its way through the merger of the former Viacom and CBS late last year.
Babineau, who joined Comedy Central in 2014 as a vice president of original programming, helped launch Trevor Noah’s tenure on “The Daily Show” and had strong creative ties to well-regarded series such as “Broad City” and “Inside Amy Schumer.”
A network spokesperson said Babineau would stay with the network through the end of 2020. Deadline previously reported that Babineau would leave, and reported that Keith Cox, will take up the duties of overseeing scripted development and studio production across the entire portfolio of youth-and-entertainment focused cable networks that now report to Chris McCarthy. Justin Rosenblatt,...
Babineau, who joined Comedy Central in 2014 as a vice president of original programming, helped launch Trevor Noah’s tenure on “The Daily Show” and had strong creative ties to well-regarded series such as “Broad City” and “Inside Amy Schumer.”
A network spokesperson said Babineau would stay with the network through the end of 2020. Deadline previously reported that Babineau would leave, and reported that Keith Cox, will take up the duties of overseeing scripted development and studio production across the entire portfolio of youth-and-entertainment focused cable networks that now report to Chris McCarthy. Justin Rosenblatt,...
- 4/29/2020
- by Brian Steinberg
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Another top Comedy Central executive is exiting in the fallout from the ViacomCBS merger. Sarah Babineau, Head of Comedy Central Content & Creative Enterprises, will be departing Comedy Central at the end of the year. The news comes two months after she was promoted to the high-level creative post within ViacomCBS’ Entertainment & Youth unit. I hear she is among a slew of senior executives that are being let go at the network, which is in the midst of post-ViacomCBS merger layoffs.
As part of the post-merger integration at the new Entertainment & Youth division, run by Chris McCarthy, there will be a further consolidation of top creative executives under Nina L. Diaz, President of Content and Chief Creative Officer for the entire group, I have learned.
President of Entertainment & Youth Studios Keith Cox, who was promoted alongside Babineau in January, will oversee scripted development and scripted studio production across the portfolio,...
As part of the post-merger integration at the new Entertainment & Youth division, run by Chris McCarthy, there will be a further consolidation of top creative executives under Nina L. Diaz, President of Content and Chief Creative Officer for the entire group, I have learned.
President of Entertainment & Youth Studios Keith Cox, who was promoted alongside Babineau in January, will oversee scripted development and scripted studio production across the portfolio,...
- 4/29/2020
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
The best late-night companion for Comedy Central’s long-running “The Daily Show” may just be “The Daily Show.”
The ViacomCBS cable outlet will expand Trevor Noah’s late-night showcase to 45 minutes per night during production that takes place during the coronavirus. It’s the first time since the franchise launched in 1996 with Craig Kilborn that it will get that much time allocated to it. The new parameters start this evening with the show’s 11 p.m. broadcast, expanding duties for host Noah, the show’s array of contributors, and its writing and production staff.
The 45-minute timeframe is not expected at present to last beyond the show’s pandemic efforts, which are being done remotely, without a live audience or a studio. Comedy Central intends to follow the 45-minute “Daily” with airings of other programs like “Crank Yankers” or repeats of “The Office.”
The programming move shows Comedy Central testing a new wee-hours strategy.
The ViacomCBS cable outlet will expand Trevor Noah’s late-night showcase to 45 minutes per night during production that takes place during the coronavirus. It’s the first time since the franchise launched in 1996 with Craig Kilborn that it will get that much time allocated to it. The new parameters start this evening with the show’s 11 p.m. broadcast, expanding duties for host Noah, the show’s array of contributors, and its writing and production staff.
The 45-minute timeframe is not expected at present to last beyond the show’s pandemic efforts, which are being done remotely, without a live audience or a studio. Comedy Central intends to follow the 45-minute “Daily” with airings of other programs like “Crank Yankers” or repeats of “The Office.”
The programming move shows Comedy Central testing a new wee-hours strategy.
- 4/27/2020
- by Brian Steinberg
- Variety Film + TV
The ripple effect from the Viacom-CBS merger — and the network realignment and executive shakeup that accompanied it — continues.
The company’s Entertainment & Youth division, run by Chris McCarthy, has promoted two senior scripted executives, Comedy Central Co-head of Original Content Sarah Babineau, as well as President of Development and Production for Paramount Network and TV Land Keith Cox, while Comedy Central’s Co-Head of Original Content Jonas Larsen has stepped down.
The Entertainment & Youth unit is comprised by VH1, MTV, Cmt, Comedy Central, TV Land, Paramount Network, Logo, Smithsonian Channel — and as of yesterday Pop TV, previously controlled by CBS. Brad Schwartz remains President of Pop, reporting to McCarthy. Tom Hayden also continues as President of the Smithsonian Channel.
The division was originally formed in November when McCarthy added Comedy Central, Paramount Network, Smithsonian Channel and TV Land and their respective content studios to his existing portfolio of MTV,...
The company’s Entertainment & Youth division, run by Chris McCarthy, has promoted two senior scripted executives, Comedy Central Co-head of Original Content Sarah Babineau, as well as President of Development and Production for Paramount Network and TV Land Keith Cox, while Comedy Central’s Co-Head of Original Content Jonas Larsen has stepped down.
The Entertainment & Youth unit is comprised by VH1, MTV, Cmt, Comedy Central, TV Land, Paramount Network, Logo, Smithsonian Channel — and as of yesterday Pop TV, previously controlled by CBS. Brad Schwartz remains President of Pop, reporting to McCarthy. Tom Hayden also continues as President of the Smithsonian Channel.
The division was originally formed in November when McCarthy added Comedy Central, Paramount Network, Smithsonian Channel and TV Land and their respective content studios to his existing portfolio of MTV,...
- 1/16/2020
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Comedy Central is staying in business with Anthony Jeselnik.
The ViacomCBS-owned cabler has renewed the comedian's interview show, Good Talk With Anthony Jeselnik, for a second season. The show is set to return in 2020 (a specific date hasn't been set) for an eight-episode run, up from six for its first season.
The renewal is the first for Comedy Central since the Viacom-cbs merger closed in early December, and the first since longtime network head Kent Alterman departed amid a management shake-up. Chris McCarthy, who oversees MTV, VH1, Cmt and Logo, added Comedy Central, Paramount Network and TV Land ...
The ViacomCBS-owned cabler has renewed the comedian's interview show, Good Talk With Anthony Jeselnik, for a second season. The show is set to return in 2020 (a specific date hasn't been set) for an eight-episode run, up from six for its first season.
The renewal is the first for Comedy Central since the Viacom-cbs merger closed in early December, and the first since longtime network head Kent Alterman departed amid a management shake-up. Chris McCarthy, who oversees MTV, VH1, Cmt and Logo, added Comedy Central, Paramount Network and TV Land ...
- 12/11/2019
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
CBS and Viacom are finally, really, back to together. Less than four months after announcing their intentions to rejoin as one company, the companies closed their merger on Wednesday, beginning the new ViacomCBS era.
The merger took effect following the closing bell on Wednesday. ViacomCBS Inc. will begin trading on the Nasdaq on Thursday under ticker symbols Viaca and Viac. The move puts the CBS broadcast network, Viacom’s stable of cable channels like MTV and Nickelodeon, and the Paramount film and TV studio under one roof.
The two companies agreed in August to an all-stock deal that valued Viacom at roughly $12 billion. CBS shareholders will own approximately 61% and Viacom shareholders will own approximately 39% of the new company. In making the announcement, ViacomCBS touted an annual revenue of $28 billion.
Also Read: ViacomCBS Rounds Out Senior Management Team
Bob Bakish will be president and chief executive officer of the combined company,...
The merger took effect following the closing bell on Wednesday. ViacomCBS Inc. will begin trading on the Nasdaq on Thursday under ticker symbols Viaca and Viac. The move puts the CBS broadcast network, Viacom’s stable of cable channels like MTV and Nickelodeon, and the Paramount film and TV studio under one roof.
The two companies agreed in August to an all-stock deal that valued Viacom at roughly $12 billion. CBS shareholders will own approximately 61% and Viacom shareholders will own approximately 39% of the new company. In making the announcement, ViacomCBS touted an annual revenue of $28 billion.
Also Read: ViacomCBS Rounds Out Senior Management Team
Bob Bakish will be president and chief executive officer of the combined company,...
- 12/4/2019
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
CBS and Viacom expect their re-merger to become official after the U.S. stock markets close on Wednesday, Dec. 4, the companies said on Monday.
ViacomCBS Inc. will begin trading on the Nasdaq the following day, Thursday, Dec. 5, under ticker symbols Viaca and Viac.
U.S. stock markets open at 9:30 a.m. Et and close at 4 p.m. Et.
Also Read: Why ViacomCBS Is Not Diving Headfirst Into the Streaming Era
Bob Bakish will be president and chief executive officer of the combined company, which has been moving executives in, out and around in preparation for the recombination.
Kent Alterman, longtime head of Comedy Central, will be exiting as part of recent leadership changes. His network will be overseen by Chris McCarthy, who will become president of entertainment and youth brands, adding TV Land, Paramount Network and Smithsonian Channel to his portfolio. McCarthy already oversees MTV, VH1, Cmt and Logo and will report to Bakish.
ViacomCBS Inc. will begin trading on the Nasdaq the following day, Thursday, Dec. 5, under ticker symbols Viaca and Viac.
U.S. stock markets open at 9:30 a.m. Et and close at 4 p.m. Et.
Also Read: Why ViacomCBS Is Not Diving Headfirst Into the Streaming Era
Bob Bakish will be president and chief executive officer of the combined company, which has been moving executives in, out and around in preparation for the recombination.
Kent Alterman, longtime head of Comedy Central, will be exiting as part of recent leadership changes. His network will be overseen by Chris McCarthy, who will become president of entertainment and youth brands, adding TV Land, Paramount Network and Smithsonian Channel to his portfolio. McCarthy already oversees MTV, VH1, Cmt and Logo and will report to Bakish.
- 11/25/2019
- by Tony Maglio
- The Wrap
Comedy Central has debuted the first original sketch from its new partnership with The Second City, and just in time for your Thanksgiving trip home, it’s a riff on the eternal bleakness of hometown bars around the holidays.
“‘Twas the night before Thanksgiving and all through the city / the booze began flowing — folks about to get s—ty,” the bartender in the sketch says melodically as he pours drinks for an increasingly drunk and increasingly sad crew of former high school friends. “When what to my wandering eye should appear? / Every D-bag from high school reuniting right here.”
The sketch, titled “What Every Bar in Your Hometown Is Like on Thanksgiving Eve,” was directed by Alice Mathias. Ryan Asher, Tien Tran, Tyler Davis, Jeff Murdoch, Kelsey Kinney, Nate Varrone and Tim Kazurinsk star.
Also Read: Comedy Central Head Kent Alterman Out Amid ViacomCBS Restructuring
The sketch is the first...
“‘Twas the night before Thanksgiving and all through the city / the booze began flowing — folks about to get s—ty,” the bartender in the sketch says melodically as he pours drinks for an increasingly drunk and increasingly sad crew of former high school friends. “When what to my wandering eye should appear? / Every D-bag from high school reuniting right here.”
The sketch, titled “What Every Bar in Your Hometown Is Like on Thanksgiving Eve,” was directed by Alice Mathias. Ryan Asher, Tien Tran, Tyler Davis, Jeff Murdoch, Kelsey Kinney, Nate Varrone and Tim Kazurinsk star.
Also Read: Comedy Central Head Kent Alterman Out Amid ViacomCBS Restructuring
The sketch is the first...
- 11/22/2019
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
Viacom ended its fiscal 2019 by keeping Paramount on pace to deliver the division’s first full-year profit since 2015. For fiscal Q4 alone, the publicly traded corporation topped media analysts’ expectations at both its top and bottom lines.
Wall Street had forecast fourth-quarter 2019 earnings per share of 75 cents on $3.41 billion in revenue, according to a consensus compiled by Yahoo Finance. Viacom actually reported 79 cents of adjusted diluted earnings per share on $3.433 billion in revenue.
Viacom’s revenue, income and earnings all actually declined from the prior quarter — and the prior year. Its Paramount division ultimately contributed more, obviously, but theatrical revenue fell vs. the comparable three-month period of 2018 featuring “Mission: Impossible – Fallout.”
Also Read: CBS Beats Q3 Earnings Estimates Despite 21% Decline in Operating Income
Television performed much better, including 6% growth in domestic advertising revenue.
“Our strong performance in the fourth quarter capped off a pivotal year for Viacom and reflects the successful...
Wall Street had forecast fourth-quarter 2019 earnings per share of 75 cents on $3.41 billion in revenue, according to a consensus compiled by Yahoo Finance. Viacom actually reported 79 cents of adjusted diluted earnings per share on $3.433 billion in revenue.
Viacom’s revenue, income and earnings all actually declined from the prior quarter — and the prior year. Its Paramount division ultimately contributed more, obviously, but theatrical revenue fell vs. the comparable three-month period of 2018 featuring “Mission: Impossible – Fallout.”
Also Read: CBS Beats Q3 Earnings Estimates Despite 21% Decline in Operating Income
Television performed much better, including 6% growth in domestic advertising revenue.
“Our strong performance in the fourth quarter capped off a pivotal year for Viacom and reflects the successful...
- 11/14/2019
- by Tony Maglio
- The Wrap
With 95 cents of adjusted earnings per share for the third quarter of 2019, CBS topped Wall Street’s forecast, but it came up 23% shy of last year’s comparable number.
And though revenue slightly grew (+1% to $3.30 billion) from the comparable quarter in 2018, CBS missed media analysts’ estimates there by $60 million.
Experts expected CBS to report earnings per share of 91 cents on $3.36 billion in revenue for the quarter, according to a consensus compiled by Yahoo Finance.
Also Read: Ratings: 'Madam Secretary' Logs a New Low
CBS Corporation’s operating income dropped by 21% year to year on higher content spend, including investments in new Showtime series “City on a Hill” and “On Becoming a God in Central Florida,” and miniseries “The Loudest Voice.”
Affiliate and subscription fee revenues rose from Q3 2018, as did content and licensing. Advertising declined.
Though the all-in revenue mark didn’t work for Wall Street, it was still a third-quarter record for CBS,...
And though revenue slightly grew (+1% to $3.30 billion) from the comparable quarter in 2018, CBS missed media analysts’ estimates there by $60 million.
Experts expected CBS to report earnings per share of 91 cents on $3.36 billion in revenue for the quarter, according to a consensus compiled by Yahoo Finance.
Also Read: Ratings: 'Madam Secretary' Logs a New Low
CBS Corporation’s operating income dropped by 21% year to year on higher content spend, including investments in new Showtime series “City on a Hill” and “On Becoming a God in Central Florida,” and miniseries “The Loudest Voice.”
Affiliate and subscription fee revenues rose from Q3 2018, as did content and licensing. Advertising declined.
Though the all-in revenue mark didn’t work for Wall Street, it was still a third-quarter record for CBS,...
- 11/12/2019
- by Tony Maglio
- The Wrap
The latest cluster of high-level ViacomCBS executive announcements — which included CBS chief creative officer David Nevins and MTV/VH1 chief Chris McCarthy expanding their oversight, and Comedy Central head Kent Alterman exiting — likely constitutes the last round of public leadership shuffling ahead of the close of the Viacom-CBS transaction in early December, according to a source familiar with the matter. But it is just the place-setting for the $500 million in synergy savings that ViacomCBS chief Bob Bakish has promised to deliver over the next 12-24 months.
Now that the primary leadership for the major divisions has been cemented and is ready to sally forth on Day 1 of a new ViacomCBS, further strategic streamlining and new corporate appointments will follow, though none are likely to be as high-profile as Monday’s shuffle, which included McCarthy taking over Comedy Central, Paramount Network and other channels.
There are no clear plans yet for layoffs at either company,...
Now that the primary leadership for the major divisions has been cemented and is ready to sally forth on Day 1 of a new ViacomCBS, further strategic streamlining and new corporate appointments will follow, though none are likely to be as high-profile as Monday’s shuffle, which included McCarthy taking over Comedy Central, Paramount Network and other channels.
There are no clear plans yet for layoffs at either company,...
- 11/12/2019
- by Elaine Low
- Variety Film + TV
Jim Gianopulos will continue to oversee film operations following Viacom’s merger with CBS, the companies confirmed on Monday. The move was expected and comes as the media marriage is being wrapped up.
Gianopulos’ title will be chairman and CEO of Paramount Pictures. His mandate will continue to be calling the shots at Paramount Animation, Paramount Features, Paramount Players and Paramount TV. He joined the company in 2017 after decades at 20th Century Fox, where he climbed the ranks to eventually become its studio chief. Gianopulos is known for having strong relationships with the creative community and a deep understanding of the international marketplace.
In Paramount, he inherited a studio in disarray. His predecessor, Brad Grey, had overseen a series of financial failures and the company was faulted for having few major franchises in its arsenal. Gianopulos’ tenure has been mixed. The studio had a hit last summer with the Elton John...
Gianopulos’ title will be chairman and CEO of Paramount Pictures. His mandate will continue to be calling the shots at Paramount Animation, Paramount Features, Paramount Players and Paramount TV. He joined the company in 2017 after decades at 20th Century Fox, where he climbed the ranks to eventually become its studio chief. Gianopulos is known for having strong relationships with the creative community and a deep understanding of the international marketplace.
In Paramount, he inherited a studio in disarray. His predecessor, Brad Grey, had overseen a series of financial failures and the company was faulted for having few major franchises in its arsenal. Gianopulos’ tenure has been mixed. The studio had a hit last summer with the Elton John...
- 11/11/2019
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
2Nd Update with confirmation and Bob Bakish statement: Viacom and CBS has officially confirmed the wide-ranging content shake-up across its ranks that will see Comedy Central veteran Kent Alterman leaving the fold and MTV Networks boss Chris McCarthy and CBS Chief Creative Officer David Nevins adding to their turf.
As expected Jim Gianopulos remains as chairman and CEO of Paramount Pictures, which includes oversight of Paramount Animation, Paramount Features, Paramount Players and Paramount TV.
“ViacomCBS will be one of the largest premium content creators in the world, with the capacity to produce content for both our own platforms and for others,” said Bob Bakish, President and Chief Executive Officer, Viacom, who will serve as President and Chief Executive Officer of ViacomCBS upon close. “This talented team of content leaders will work together to ensure we realize the full power of our brands, our deep relationships with the creative community and...
As expected Jim Gianopulos remains as chairman and CEO of Paramount Pictures, which includes oversight of Paramount Animation, Paramount Features, Paramount Players and Paramount TV.
“ViacomCBS will be one of the largest premium content creators in the world, with the capacity to produce content for both our own platforms and for others,” said Bob Bakish, President and Chief Executive Officer, Viacom, who will serve as President and Chief Executive Officer of ViacomCBS upon close. “This talented team of content leaders will work together to ensure we realize the full power of our brands, our deep relationships with the creative community and...
- 11/11/2019
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
Things are shifting as Viacom and CBS finalize their merger, which is expected to close at the beginning of December. That said, there is a shake-up with executives at what will soon become ViacomCBS Inc.
According to the Wall Street Journal, execs from the two companies will gain additional responsibilities. David Nevins, who is the chief creative officer of CBS and the chairman and chief executive of Showtime Network, will now oversee Bet Networks. He will to Bob Bakish, the chief executive of Viacom for business regarding Bet and Showtime and to CBS Chief Executive Joe Ianniello for business regarding CBS.
In addition to overseeing MTV, VH1, Cmt and Logo, Chris McCarthy will now be president of entertainment and youth brands as well as Comedy Central, TV Land and Paramount Network. On top of that he will oversee the Smithsonian Channel at CBS. He will continue to report to Bakish.
According to the Wall Street Journal, execs from the two companies will gain additional responsibilities. David Nevins, who is the chief creative officer of CBS and the chairman and chief executive of Showtime Network, will now oversee Bet Networks. He will to Bob Bakish, the chief executive of Viacom for business regarding Bet and Showtime and to CBS Chief Executive Joe Ianniello for business regarding CBS.
In addition to overseeing MTV, VH1, Cmt and Logo, Chris McCarthy will now be president of entertainment and youth brands as well as Comedy Central, TV Land and Paramount Network. On top of that he will oversee the Smithsonian Channel at CBS. He will continue to report to Bakish.
- 11/10/2019
- by Dino-Ray Ramos
- Deadline Film + TV
Viacom and CBS are preparing to make major shifts to their creative leadership as part of their upcoming merger, and at least two top executives are on their way out.
Kent Alterman, longtime head of Comedy Central, will be exiting the company as part of the leadership changes. His network will be overseen by Chris McCarthy, who will become president of entertainment and youth brands, adding TV Land, Paramount Network and Smithsonian Channel to his portfolio. McCarthy already oversees MTV, VH1, Cmt and Logo and will report to ViacomCBS CEO Bob Bakish.
Along with Alterman (pictured above), Viacom Media Networks COO Sarah Levy will also be leaving with no replacement selected. Levy oversaw business operations for Viacom’s networks starting in early 2018 and had worked at Viacom for 20 years, mostly as COO of Nickelodeon.
Also Read: Jo Ann Ross to Lead Ad Sales for ViacomCBS
CBS chief creative officer David Nevins...
Kent Alterman, longtime head of Comedy Central, will be exiting the company as part of the leadership changes. His network will be overseen by Chris McCarthy, who will become president of entertainment and youth brands, adding TV Land, Paramount Network and Smithsonian Channel to his portfolio. McCarthy already oversees MTV, VH1, Cmt and Logo and will report to ViacomCBS CEO Bob Bakish.
Along with Alterman (pictured above), Viacom Media Networks COO Sarah Levy will also be leaving with no replacement selected. Levy oversaw business operations for Viacom’s networks starting in early 2018 and had worked at Viacom for 20 years, mostly as COO of Nickelodeon.
Also Read: Jo Ann Ross to Lead Ad Sales for ViacomCBS
CBS chief creative officer David Nevins...
- 11/10/2019
- by Jeremy Fuster
- The Wrap
In another step toward integrating CBS and Viacom’s assets following the merger of the two entertainment entities earlier this year, CBS chief creative officer David Nevins is adding oversight of Viacom-owned Bet Networks, while MTV/VH1 chief Chris McCarthy will take over Comedy Central, Paramount Network and other channels as longtime Comedy Central chief Kent Alterman and Viacom media networks COO Sarah Levy exit the company.
As part of the changes, head of Nickelodeon Brian Robbins is now assuming the title of president, kids and family entertainment at ViacomCBS. He will be reunited with AwesomenessTV, the company he founded, as it is being brought under his purview. These executive shifts come ahead of the close of the Viacom-cbs union, which is expected to happen as soon as early December and will be led by current Viacom chief Bob Bakish.
For Nevins, this marks an expansion of oversight. He was...
As part of the changes, head of Nickelodeon Brian Robbins is now assuming the title of president, kids and family entertainment at ViacomCBS. He will be reunited with AwesomenessTV, the company he founded, as it is being brought under his purview. These executive shifts come ahead of the close of the Viacom-cbs union, which is expected to happen as soon as early December and will be led by current Viacom chief Bob Bakish.
For Nevins, this marks an expansion of oversight. He was...
- 11/10/2019
- by Elaine Low and Daniel Holloway
- Variety Film + TV
Just days after Netflix landed global streaming rights to Seinfeld, currently on Hulu, the classic NBC sitcom also has found a new cable home. Viacom has acquired the exclusive cable syndication rights to Seinfeld in a deal with Sony Pictures Television.
Beginning in October 2021, the full library of all 180 Seinfeld episodes will leave their long-time cable home on TBS and will air across Viacom’s entertainment brands, including Comedy Central, Paramount Network and TV Land. Upon the completion of the CBS-Viacom merger, CBS-owned Pop TV also is expected to air Seinfeld reruns when they become available .Additionally, catch-up episodes will be available through Viacom brands via authenticated video on demand, websites and apps.
No terms of the deal have been disclosed. The current cable syndication deal for Seinfeld at TBS is believed to be paying about $350,000 – $400,000 an episode. Industry sources speculated that the Viacom pact may be worth in...
Beginning in October 2021, the full library of all 180 Seinfeld episodes will leave their long-time cable home on TBS and will air across Viacom’s entertainment brands, including Comedy Central, Paramount Network and TV Land. Upon the completion of the CBS-Viacom merger, CBS-owned Pop TV also is expected to air Seinfeld reruns when they become available .Additionally, catch-up episodes will be available through Viacom brands via authenticated video on demand, websites and apps.
No terms of the deal have been disclosed. The current cable syndication deal for Seinfeld at TBS is believed to be paying about $350,000 – $400,000 an episode. Industry sources speculated that the Viacom pact may be worth in...
- 9/22/2019
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Viacom has staked its claim in all 180 episodes of “Seinfeld,” acquiring the exclusive cable rights for the show from Sony Pictures Television.
Beginning in October 2021, Viacom’s entertainment cable networks — including Comedy Central, Paramount Network and TV Land — will air the Jerry Seinfeld-led comedy, which originally aired from 1989-1998 on NBC. Catch-up episodes will also be made available through Viacom’s on-demand services, websites and apps.
“Seinfeld” has been available on Hulu since 2015, but Netflix announced five days ago that it landed global streaming rights to the comedy beginning in 2021.
Also Read: 'Seinfeld,' 'Big Bang' Mega-Deals Prove Classic TV Sitcoms Could Decide Who Wins in Streaming
“We’re extremely proud to bring this little-known series to our viewers,” Kent Alterman, President of Comedy Central, Paramount Network, TV Land and Vandelay Industries, said. “With the right programming and promotion, we believe we’ll finally get ‘Seinfeld’ the recognition it truly deserves,...
Beginning in October 2021, Viacom’s entertainment cable networks — including Comedy Central, Paramount Network and TV Land — will air the Jerry Seinfeld-led comedy, which originally aired from 1989-1998 on NBC. Catch-up episodes will also be made available through Viacom’s on-demand services, websites and apps.
“Seinfeld” has been available on Hulu since 2015, but Netflix announced five days ago that it landed global streaming rights to the comedy beginning in 2021.
Also Read: 'Seinfeld,' 'Big Bang' Mega-Deals Prove Classic TV Sitcoms Could Decide Who Wins in Streaming
“We’re extremely proud to bring this little-known series to our viewers,” Kent Alterman, President of Comedy Central, Paramount Network, TV Land and Vandelay Industries, said. “With the right programming and promotion, we believe we’ll finally get ‘Seinfeld’ the recognition it truly deserves,...
- 9/22/2019
- by J. Clara Chan
- The Wrap
Comedy Central sure loves their South Park, and they aren’t looking to cancel it anytime soon. The network has renewed the series for three more season which will take it to a record-breaking 26th season and at least 327 episodes.
I love watching this show. Creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone and their team have been able to consistently keep it fresh and funny. In a statement, the creators joked:
“Apparently, our efforts to get our own show cancelled have fallen short. Luckily, we love Comedy Central and Kent Alterman and our staff so we are looking forward to new cancellation opportunities in the next few years.”
Parker and Stone will continue to write, direct, and edit every episode of South Park, just like they’ve been doing since the series premiered back in 1997. Kent Alterman, president of Comedy Central, Paramount Network and TV Land added:
“South Park is the...
I love watching this show. Creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone and their team have been able to consistently keep it fresh and funny. In a statement, the creators joked:
“Apparently, our efforts to get our own show cancelled have fallen short. Luckily, we love Comedy Central and Kent Alterman and our staff so we are looking forward to new cancellation opportunities in the next few years.”
Parker and Stone will continue to write, direct, and edit every episode of South Park, just like they’ve been doing since the series premiered back in 1997. Kent Alterman, president of Comedy Central, Paramount Network and TV Land added:
“South Park is the...
- 9/12/2019
- by Joey Paur
- GeekTyrant
Alec Bojalad Sep 12, 2019
South Park season 24 has been confirmed along with two more beyond that for Comedy Central's longest running series.
Here's a fun thought experiment. If South Park's central fourth graders Stan Marsh, Kyle Broflovski, Kenny McCormick, and Eric Cartman had all aged at the same rate as their show, they would all be 33 or 34 years old now. And after an announcement today, the boys seem set to approach 40 soon.
Comedy Central has announced that it has renewed its hallmark animated series South Park for season 24. It also went ahead and confirmed seasons 25 and 26 for good measure. Each of the three new seasons will feature 10 episodes each, bringing South Park's total run to 327 episodes. Created and run by Matt Stone and Trey Parker, South Park has already shattered countless cable television longevity records and Comedy Central seems determined to make sure it continues to do so.
“South Park...
South Park season 24 has been confirmed along with two more beyond that for Comedy Central's longest running series.
Here's a fun thought experiment. If South Park's central fourth graders Stan Marsh, Kyle Broflovski, Kenny McCormick, and Eric Cartman had all aged at the same rate as their show, they would all be 33 or 34 years old now. And after an announcement today, the boys seem set to approach 40 soon.
Comedy Central has announced that it has renewed its hallmark animated series South Park for season 24. It also went ahead and confirmed seasons 25 and 26 for good measure. Each of the three new seasons will feature 10 episodes each, bringing South Park's total run to 327 episodes. Created and run by Matt Stone and Trey Parker, South Park has already shattered countless cable television longevity records and Comedy Central seems determined to make sure it continues to do so.
“South Park...
- 9/12/2019
- Den of Geek
Comedy Central and South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone have reached a deal for three additional seasons of the Emmy- and Peabody Award-winning animated comedy series. The three-season, 30-episode renewal comes just two weeks ahead of South Park‘s Season 23 premiere, during which the iconic comedy will surpass its milestone 300th episode.
South Park has been the highest-rated cable comedy in Primetime for six consecutive years. Across its historic 22-season run fans have viewed over 18.3 billion episodes on Comedy Central, the equivalent of over seven billion hours. The series also has over 48 million fans across Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube, making it the most-popular cable comedy series on each platform. On social platforms, South Park generated 111 million streams in 2018 with massive growth on Instagram (+586% vs. prior year) and YouTube (+78%).
“South Park is the greatest comedy in the history of television, unmatched in its satirical strength and cultural relevancy...
South Park has been the highest-rated cable comedy in Primetime for six consecutive years. Across its historic 22-season run fans have viewed over 18.3 billion episodes on Comedy Central, the equivalent of over seven billion hours. The series also has over 48 million fans across Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube, making it the most-popular cable comedy series on each platform. On social platforms, South Park generated 111 million streams in 2018 with massive growth on Instagram (+586% vs. prior year) and YouTube (+78%).
“South Park is the greatest comedy in the history of television, unmatched in its satirical strength and cultural relevancy...
- 9/12/2019
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
“South Park” is sticking around for a few more years. Ahead of its 23rd season, Comedy Central has agreed to a new deal with Matt Stone and Trey Parker to keep the longrunning cartoon for an additional three seasons.
That will take “South Park” through Season 26 and 327 episodes. Stone and Parker, as they have since it debuted in 1997, will continue to write, direct and edit every episode.
“South Park” is the longest running primetime scripted series on cable and will surpass its 300th episode this season — though that still leaves it some 300 episodes shy (and counting) of that other long-running animated series in “The Simpsons.” Among young adults, “South park” has been the highest-rated cable comedy in primetime for the last six years.
Also Read: How Long Does 'South Park' Have Left? 'Haven't Put an End Date On It,' Comedy Central Chief Says
“‘South Park’ is the greatest comedy in the history of television,...
That will take “South Park” through Season 26 and 327 episodes. Stone and Parker, as they have since it debuted in 1997, will continue to write, direct and edit every episode.
“South Park” is the longest running primetime scripted series on cable and will surpass its 300th episode this season — though that still leaves it some 300 episodes shy (and counting) of that other long-running animated series in “The Simpsons.” Among young adults, “South park” has been the highest-rated cable comedy in primetime for the last six years.
Also Read: How Long Does 'South Park' Have Left? 'Haven't Put an End Date On It,' Comedy Central Chief Says
“‘South Park’ is the greatest comedy in the history of television,...
- 9/12/2019
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
Stan, Kyle, Cartman, Kenny and co. are far from done with their shenanigans yet.
Comedy Central has renewed “South Park” for three more seasons, taking it to a record-breaking 26th season and at least 327 episodes. Season 23 of the longest-running scripted cable series is set to premiere on Sept. 25.
The show, which follows a group of four boys and their friends living in the small town of South Park, Colo., will hit the 300th episode milestone during the upcoming season. It will still trail “The Simpsons” by four seasons in terms of the longest-running animated series of all time.
“Apparently, our efforts to get our own show cancelled have fallen short,” joked creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone in a statement. “Luckily, we love Comedy Central and Kent Alterman and our staff so we are looking forward to new cancellation opportunities in the next few years.”
Parker and Stone will continue to write,...
Comedy Central has renewed “South Park” for three more seasons, taking it to a record-breaking 26th season and at least 327 episodes. Season 23 of the longest-running scripted cable series is set to premiere on Sept. 25.
The show, which follows a group of four boys and their friends living in the small town of South Park, Colo., will hit the 300th episode milestone during the upcoming season. It will still trail “The Simpsons” by four seasons in terms of the longest-running animated series of all time.
“Apparently, our efforts to get our own show cancelled have fallen short,” joked creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone in a statement. “Luckily, we love Comedy Central and Kent Alterman and our staff so we are looking forward to new cancellation opportunities in the next few years.”
Parker and Stone will continue to write,...
- 9/12/2019
- by Will Thorne
- Variety Film + TV
Paramount Network is plotting more Wife Swap after the unscripted format delivered decent ratings in key demos for the Viacom-owned network.
The broadcaster has ordered a second season of the UK format with 20 new episodes. It comes from Banijay Studios North America.
The network said that compared to the same slot the previous year, the show was up +77% with P18-49 (0.35 rating), up +96% with W18-49 (0.44 rating) and up +75% with total viewers.
The first season launched on April 4, having moved from its original buyer Cmt. The show, which was originally due to air in February on Cmt, moved after Viacom’s realignment of Viitsacom entertainment cable networks under Kent Alterman and Chris McCarthy. Cmt had been a part of a group that also included Paramount Network and TV Land. The programming of the three networks was overseen by Keith Cox, who bought and developed the updated Wife Swap for Cmt.
The broadcaster has ordered a second season of the UK format with 20 new episodes. It comes from Banijay Studios North America.
The network said that compared to the same slot the previous year, the show was up +77% with P18-49 (0.35 rating), up +96% with W18-49 (0.44 rating) and up +75% with total viewers.
The first season launched on April 4, having moved from its original buyer Cmt. The show, which was originally due to air in February on Cmt, moved after Viacom’s realignment of Viitsacom entertainment cable networks under Kent Alterman and Chris McCarthy. Cmt had been a part of a group that also included Paramount Network and TV Land. The programming of the three networks was overseen by Keith Cox, who bought and developed the updated Wife Swap for Cmt.
- 9/5/2019
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Paramount Network is doubling down on the revival of unscripted series Wife Swap.
The ViacomCBS-owned cable network has renewed the show for a 20-episode second season, twice as long as the 10-episode first run. Wife Swap came to Paramount earlier this year after initially getting picked up at corporate sibling Cmt; the switch to Paramount was an early move by network head Kent Alterman after he took over from Kevin Kay.
"Wife Swap is an iconic international hit that we knew would resonate with our Paramount Network audience,” says Keith Cox, president development at Paramount Network and TV Land. "Season ...
The ViacomCBS-owned cable network has renewed the show for a 20-episode second season, twice as long as the 10-episode first run. Wife Swap came to Paramount earlier this year after initially getting picked up at corporate sibling Cmt; the switch to Paramount was an early move by network head Kent Alterman after he took over from Kevin Kay.
"Wife Swap is an iconic international hit that we knew would resonate with our Paramount Network audience,” says Keith Cox, president development at Paramount Network and TV Land. "Season ...
Viacom’s cable portfolio was once a shining example to the rest of the industry, but the company has been struggling to revitalize its most important brands for years. With the merger between Viacom and CBS now officially underway, the health of those brands is more important than ever.
When Bob Bakish took over as president and CEO in late 2016, he specifically called out six core networks — MTV, Nickelodeon, Nick Jr., Comedy Central, Bet and Paramount Network — as the keys to Viacom’s success. Since then, Viacom has reorganized its executive ranks and laid off employees across numerous brands as it attempts to lure viewers and streamline for the digital age.
Among the more significant of these moves: In May 2018, Debra Lee stepped down as the head of Bet after more than a decade at the helm of the African-American focused cabler; In October of that same year, longtime Viacom...
When Bob Bakish took over as president and CEO in late 2016, he specifically called out six core networks — MTV, Nickelodeon, Nick Jr., Comedy Central, Bet and Paramount Network — as the keys to Viacom’s success. Since then, Viacom has reorganized its executive ranks and laid off employees across numerous brands as it attempts to lure viewers and streamline for the digital age.
Among the more significant of these moves: In May 2018, Debra Lee stepped down as the head of Bet after more than a decade at the helm of the African-American focused cabler; In October of that same year, longtime Viacom...
- 8/16/2019
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
It finally happened on Tuesday. After years of false starts, CBS and Viacom finally announced their intentions to get back together.
The all-stock deal, which values Viacom at $12 billion, puts Bob Bakish as the head of the newly-named ViacomCBS, with Joe Ianniello staying on board as the CEO of all CBS-branded assets. The agreement puts the CBS broadcast network, Viacom’s stable of cable channels like MTV and Nickelodeon, and the Paramount film and TV studio under one roof.
Below, TheWrap sizes up the winners and losers from Tuesday’s long-awaited announcement.
Winner: Shari Redstone
Bob Bakish may have gotten the keys to the kingdom but make no mistake: Shari Redstone comes out the biggest winner of Tuesday’s announcement. She completed her three-years-long quest to reunite CBS and Viacom, which had been separated since 2006. She is chairman of the board and got to install her hand-picked guy as chief executive.
The all-stock deal, which values Viacom at $12 billion, puts Bob Bakish as the head of the newly-named ViacomCBS, with Joe Ianniello staying on board as the CEO of all CBS-branded assets. The agreement puts the CBS broadcast network, Viacom’s stable of cable channels like MTV and Nickelodeon, and the Paramount film and TV studio under one roof.
Below, TheWrap sizes up the winners and losers from Tuesday’s long-awaited announcement.
Winner: Shari Redstone
Bob Bakish may have gotten the keys to the kingdom but make no mistake: Shari Redstone comes out the biggest winner of Tuesday’s announcement. She completed her three-years-long quest to reunite CBS and Viacom, which had been separated since 2006. She is chairman of the board and got to install her hand-picked guy as chief executive.
- 8/14/2019
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
David Spade at the helm of a new late-night show? Viewers probably think they know what to expect. Yet Spade’s new program on Comedy Central will also be notable for what it doesn’t have to offer.
Yes, this is the guy who served “Hollywood Minute” zingers on “Saturday Night Live,” made millions laugh with movies that also featured Chris Farley, and has become a regular TV element via roles on “Just Shoot Me” and “Rules of Engagement.” His new “Lights Out” will launch Monday July 29 at 11:30 p.m.
Spade may seem a traditional choice. By relying on one of modern comedy’s best-known players, however, Comedy Central is breaking the rules, not hewing to them.
For the first time since the debut of “The Colbert Report” in 2005, the Viacom-owned cable network will not launch an 11:30 program built around talent from its flagship “The Daily Show,...
Yes, this is the guy who served “Hollywood Minute” zingers on “Saturday Night Live,” made millions laugh with movies that also featured Chris Farley, and has become a regular TV element via roles on “Just Shoot Me” and “Rules of Engagement.” His new “Lights Out” will launch Monday July 29 at 11:30 p.m.
Spade may seem a traditional choice. By relying on one of modern comedy’s best-known players, however, Comedy Central is breaking the rules, not hewing to them.
For the first time since the debut of “The Colbert Report” in 2005, the Viacom-owned cable network will not launch an 11:30 program built around talent from its flagship “The Daily Show,...
- 7/23/2019
- by Brian Steinberg
- Variety Film + TV
Comedy Central has promoted Sarah Babineau and Jonas Larsen to co-heads of original content, the Viacom-owned network announced on Thursday.
The duo, who previously managed the talent and development teams at Comedy Central, will now oversee all content developed across the network’s platforms, as well as the launch of Comedy Central Productions. They will report to Kent Alterman, president of Comedy Central, Paramount Network and TV Land.
Babineau will lead the development of all scripted content developed by Comedy Central, including projects produced Ccp for other outlets, and will liaise with Paramount Players on Comedy Central-branded feature films. She will continue on as executive in charge of production for “The Daily Show with Trevor Noah.”
Also Read: Anthony Jeselnik to Host 'Comedic Interview Series' Under Comedy Central Development Deal
Larsen will oversee the development of unscripted content developed by the brand, including talk shows, documentaries, specials, as well as all stand-up,...
The duo, who previously managed the talent and development teams at Comedy Central, will now oversee all content developed across the network’s platforms, as well as the launch of Comedy Central Productions. They will report to Kent Alterman, president of Comedy Central, Paramount Network and TV Land.
Babineau will lead the development of all scripted content developed by Comedy Central, including projects produced Ccp for other outlets, and will liaise with Paramount Players on Comedy Central-branded feature films. She will continue on as executive in charge of production for “The Daily Show with Trevor Noah.”
Also Read: Anthony Jeselnik to Host 'Comedic Interview Series' Under Comedy Central Development Deal
Larsen will oversee the development of unscripted content developed by the brand, including talk shows, documentaries, specials, as well as all stand-up,...
- 7/11/2019
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
Comedy Central has promoted Sarah Babineau and Jonas Larsen to co-heads of original content for the cable network.
In their new roles, they will have oversight for all comedy content developed across multiple platforms including linear, theatrical, live, audio and the newly-formed Comedy Central Productions. They will both report to Kent Alterman, president of Comedy Central, Paramount Network, and TV Land
“Through their incredible eye for talent and innate ability to develop the right project for the right platform, Sarah and Jonas have helped build the Comedy Central brand into the strongest position it has ever been,” said Alterman. “Working closely with them often makes me feel a little less sharp, but in a good way. We are so lucky to have them.”
In her new role, Babineau will relocate to the west coast, working out of Comedy Central’s Hollywood offices. She will oversee development of all scripted content developed for the brand,...
In their new roles, they will have oversight for all comedy content developed across multiple platforms including linear, theatrical, live, audio and the newly-formed Comedy Central Productions. They will both report to Kent Alterman, president of Comedy Central, Paramount Network, and TV Land
“Through their incredible eye for talent and innate ability to develop the right project for the right platform, Sarah and Jonas have helped build the Comedy Central brand into the strongest position it has ever been,” said Alterman. “Working closely with them often makes me feel a little less sharp, but in a good way. We are so lucky to have them.”
In her new role, Babineau will relocate to the west coast, working out of Comedy Central’s Hollywood offices. She will oversee development of all scripted content developed for the brand,...
- 7/11/2019
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Comedy Central has promoted Sarah Babineau and Jonas Larsen to Co-Heads of Original Content for the network. In their elevated roles, the pair will have oversight for all comedy content developed across multiple platforms including linear, theatrical, live, audio and the newly-formed Comedy Central Productions. The promotion was announced today by Kent Alterman, President, Comedy Central, Paramount Network and TV Land, to whom each will report.
“Through their incredible eye for talent and innate ability to develop the right project for the right platform, Sarah and Jonas have helped build the Comedy Central brand into the strongest position it has ever been,” said Alterman. “Working closely with them often makes me feel a little less sharp, but in a good way. We are so lucky to have them.”
In her new role, Babineau will relocate to the West Coast, working out of Comedy Central’s Hollywood offices, and have oversight...
“Through their incredible eye for talent and innate ability to develop the right project for the right platform, Sarah and Jonas have helped build the Comedy Central brand into the strongest position it has ever been,” said Alterman. “Working closely with them often makes me feel a little less sharp, but in a good way. We are so lucky to have them.”
In her new role, Babineau will relocate to the West Coast, working out of Comedy Central’s Hollywood offices, and have oversight...
- 7/11/2019
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Comedy Central has promoted Jonas Larsen and Sarah Babineau to co-heads of original content, overseeing development across all platforms for the cable network.
The duo, who have been executive vps and co-heads of talent at the Viacom-owned cabler since 2017, will also oversee content developed at the network's recently launched in-house studio, Comedy Central Productions. Their purview also includes live events, audio and theatrical content. They will report to Kent Alterman, president of Comedy Central, Paramount Network and TV Land.
"Through their incredible eye for talent and innate ability to develop the right project for the right platform,...
The duo, who have been executive vps and co-heads of talent at the Viacom-owned cabler since 2017, will also oversee content developed at the network's recently launched in-house studio, Comedy Central Productions. Their purview also includes live events, audio and theatrical content. They will report to Kent Alterman, president of Comedy Central, Paramount Network and TV Land.
"Through their incredible eye for talent and innate ability to develop the right project for the right platform,...
- 7/11/2019
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
On the eve of Yellowstone’s second season premiere tonight, Paramount Network has ordered a 10-episode third season of its flagship drama starring Kevin Costner. Joining the show for a major recurring role in Season 3 is Lost and Colony alum Josh Holloway, Deadline can reveal exclusively..
Co-created by Taylor Sheridan and John Linson, Yellowstone follows the Dutton family, led by John Dutton (Oscar winner Costner), who controls the largest contiguous ranch in the United States, under constant attack by those it borders – land developers, an Indian reservation, and America’s first National Park.
In a season-long arc, Holloway will play Roarke Carter, a handsome, charming, shaggy-haired hedge fund manager with ambitious plans in Montana.
The first season of Yellowstone averaged 5.1 million total viewers per episode, making it 2018’s most-watched new cable series and ranking second across all cable TV series for the year. In addition to a ratings juggernaut, Yellowstone...
Co-created by Taylor Sheridan and John Linson, Yellowstone follows the Dutton family, led by John Dutton (Oscar winner Costner), who controls the largest contiguous ranch in the United States, under constant attack by those it borders – land developers, an Indian reservation, and America’s first National Park.
In a season-long arc, Holloway will play Roarke Carter, a handsome, charming, shaggy-haired hedge fund manager with ambitious plans in Montana.
The first season of Yellowstone averaged 5.1 million total viewers per episode, making it 2018’s most-watched new cable series and ranking second across all cable TV series for the year. In addition to a ratings juggernaut, Yellowstone...
- 6/19/2019
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Spectrum Originals and Paramount Network have finalized a 10-episode series order and set the lead cast for Paradise Lost, a Southern Gothic mystery series from Paramount Television and Anonymous Content.
Josh Hartnett (Penny Dreadful) will play the male lead and Bridget Regan is set the female lead in the series, which will co-star Barbara Hershey (Once Upon a Time), Nick Nolte, Gail Bean (Snowfall), Danielle Deadwyler (Gifted) and Shane McRae (Sneaky Pete).
Created and written by Rodes Fishburne (Blood & Oil), Paradise Lost is about a psychiatrist (Regan) who moves with her family from California to her husband’s (Hartnett) hometown in Mississippi only to uncover shameful secrets that irrevocably change the lives of everyone involved.
Fishburne will executive produce and co-showrun. Arika Lisanne Mittman (Dexter) also serves as writer and executive producer/co-showrunner, The pilot...
Josh Hartnett (Penny Dreadful) will play the male lead and Bridget Regan is set the female lead in the series, which will co-star Barbara Hershey (Once Upon a Time), Nick Nolte, Gail Bean (Snowfall), Danielle Deadwyler (Gifted) and Shane McRae (Sneaky Pete).
Created and written by Rodes Fishburne (Blood & Oil), Paradise Lost is about a psychiatrist (Regan) who moves with her family from California to her husband’s (Hartnett) hometown in Mississippi only to uncover shameful secrets that irrevocably change the lives of everyone involved.
Fishburne will executive produce and co-showrun. Arika Lisanne Mittman (Dexter) also serves as writer and executive producer/co-showrunner, The pilot...
- 6/11/2019
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Former long-time MTV executive Lauren Dolgen is returning to Viacom as Svp and head of Unscripted Development and Production for Paramount Network.
Dolgen, who starts June 3, is coming off a year-long stint as head of BuzzFeed Studios. Based in Los Angeles, she will report to Keith Cox, President of Development and Production for Paramount Network and TV Land. She is taking over the responsibilities held by Chachi Senior who left the company in mid-January.
Dolgen, who created such unscripted mainstays as Teen Mom and 16 and Pregnant during her two decades at MTV, will lead the unscripted development team and oversee original productions.
While Paramount Network had been designated as Viacom’s leading scripted brand, Kent Alterman, who oversees the network, recently stressed the commitment to docu- and unscripted programming on the channel. Paramount Network continues to air hit reality franchises that originated on predecessor Spike, including Bar Rescue, Ink Master and Lip Sync Battle,...
Dolgen, who starts June 3, is coming off a year-long stint as head of BuzzFeed Studios. Based in Los Angeles, she will report to Keith Cox, President of Development and Production for Paramount Network and TV Land. She is taking over the responsibilities held by Chachi Senior who left the company in mid-January.
Dolgen, who created such unscripted mainstays as Teen Mom and 16 and Pregnant during her two decades at MTV, will lead the unscripted development team and oversee original productions.
While Paramount Network had been designated as Viacom’s leading scripted brand, Kent Alterman, who oversees the network, recently stressed the commitment to docu- and unscripted programming on the channel. Paramount Network continues to air hit reality franchises that originated on predecessor Spike, including Bar Rescue, Ink Master and Lip Sync Battle,...
- 5/21/2019
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Comedy Central has launched a new in-house studio, Comedy Central Productions, and a batch of first-look development deals with producers from some of its key shows, including “Broad City” and “The Daily Show with Trevor Noah.”
The deals, announced Wednesday, include pacts with Paulilu, Anthony King, Irony Point, and Stuart Miller. Paulilu is the production company from Lucia Aniello and Paul W. Downs, who served as executive producers and writers on “Broad City” and the film “Rough Night.” King wrote the musical “Beetlejuice,” and was a writer and executive producer on shows like “Silicon Valley” and “Search Party.”
Irony Point is the production company run by Daniel Powell and Alex Bach. The company’s TV and streaming credits include Comedy Central’s “Inside Amy Schumer” and “Ugly Americans,” and Netflix’s “I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson” and “The Break with Michelle Wolf.” Miller is an executive producer...
The deals, announced Wednesday, include pacts with Paulilu, Anthony King, Irony Point, and Stuart Miller. Paulilu is the production company from Lucia Aniello and Paul W. Downs, who served as executive producers and writers on “Broad City” and the film “Rough Night.” King wrote the musical “Beetlejuice,” and was a writer and executive producer on shows like “Silicon Valley” and “Search Party.”
Irony Point is the production company run by Daniel Powell and Alex Bach. The company’s TV and streaming credits include Comedy Central’s “Inside Amy Schumer” and “Ugly Americans,” and Netflix’s “I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson” and “The Break with Michelle Wolf.” Miller is an executive producer...
- 5/8/2019
- by Rachel Yang
- Variety Film + TV
Comedy Central has launched an in-house production studio, Comedy Central Productions, it announced on Wednesday.
The new studio will be led by Kent Alterman, who heads up Comedy Central as well as fellow Viacom cable networks Paramount Network and TV Land.
The studio has already signed a slew of development deals, which will create programming for buyers across all TV and digital platforms. These include Lucia Aniello and Paul W. Downs’ production company Paulilu; Anthony King; Daniel Powell and Alex Bach’s Irony Point (“Inside Amy Schumer”) and Stuart Miller (“Klepper”).
Also Read: How Long Does 'South Park' Have Left? 'Haven't Put an End Date On It,' Comedy Central Chief Says
The Ccp development deals join existing development deals for the Comedy Central network with Abbi Jacobson and Ilana Glazer, Roy Wood, Jr., Jim Jefferies and Chris Distefano.
“For years we’ve been successfully expanding the trustworthy Comedy Central brand beyond linear,...
The new studio will be led by Kent Alterman, who heads up Comedy Central as well as fellow Viacom cable networks Paramount Network and TV Land.
The studio has already signed a slew of development deals, which will create programming for buyers across all TV and digital platforms. These include Lucia Aniello and Paul W. Downs’ production company Paulilu; Anthony King; Daniel Powell and Alex Bach’s Irony Point (“Inside Amy Schumer”) and Stuart Miller (“Klepper”).
Also Read: How Long Does 'South Park' Have Left? 'Haven't Put an End Date On It,' Comedy Central Chief Says
The Ccp development deals join existing development deals for the Comedy Central network with Abbi Jacobson and Ilana Glazer, Roy Wood, Jr., Jim Jefferies and Chris Distefano.
“For years we’ve been successfully expanding the trustworthy Comedy Central brand beyond linear,...
- 5/8/2019
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
Comedy Central continues its brand expansion with the launch of Comedy Central Productions (Ccp), a new in-house studio-production arm, along with five first-look development deals to create original programming for third party platforms.
The network has deals in place with Paul W. Downs and Lucia Aniello’s (Broad City) Paulilu, writer-producer Anthony King (Beetlejuice), Daniel Powell and Alex Bach’s Irony Point (Inside Amy Schumer) and producer Stuart Miller.
Comedy Central Productions is part of Viacom’s ongoing effort in the production space. It started with establishing studio production units at Nickelodeon, MTV and Viacom International Media Networks. They are now joined by Comedy Central, with a Bet in-house production unit also in the works. The mandate for all entities is to create new original content for third party buyers by leveraging existing and new IP.
“For years we’ve been successfully expanding...
The network has deals in place with Paul W. Downs and Lucia Aniello’s (Broad City) Paulilu, writer-producer Anthony King (Beetlejuice), Daniel Powell and Alex Bach’s Irony Point (Inside Amy Schumer) and producer Stuart Miller.
Comedy Central Productions is part of Viacom’s ongoing effort in the production space. It started with establishing studio production units at Nickelodeon, MTV and Viacom International Media Networks. They are now joined by Comedy Central, with a Bet in-house production unit also in the works. The mandate for all entities is to create new original content for third party buyers by leveraging existing and new IP.
“For years we’ve been successfully expanding...
- 5/8/2019
- by Nellie Andreeva and Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Viacom's Comedy Central is launching its own in-house studio, Comedy Central Productions.
The new studio/production arm — which will be overseen by Comedy Central, Paramount Network and TV Land president Kent Alterman — has signed a slew of the network's top producers to multiyear overall deals.
Putting down roots with Ccp are Lucia Aniello and Paul W. Downs' Paulilu (Broad City, Rough Night, The Other Two); Anthony King (who earned a Tony nomination for writing the musical Beetlejuice); Daniel Powell and Alex Bach at Irony Point (Inside Amy Schumer); and Stuart Miller (Comedy Central's upcoming Klepper).
Ccp ...
The new studio/production arm — which will be overseen by Comedy Central, Paramount Network and TV Land president Kent Alterman — has signed a slew of the network's top producers to multiyear overall deals.
Putting down roots with Ccp are Lucia Aniello and Paul W. Downs' Paulilu (Broad City, Rough Night, The Other Two); Anthony King (who earned a Tony nomination for writing the musical Beetlejuice); Daniel Powell and Alex Bach at Irony Point (Inside Amy Schumer); and Stuart Miller (Comedy Central's upcoming Klepper).
Ccp ...
Paramount Network is expanding its popular Ink Master franchise across platforms, ordering two more 16-episode seasons (13 and 14) of its hit original tattoo-competition series, and new spinoff series, Ink Master: Grudge Match. Season 13 of Ink Master is slated to premiere in 2020. In addition, Paramount Network has launched a stand-alone Ink Master channel on YouTube, which will be the new home for all Ink Master video content.
While Paramount Network had been designated as Viacom’s leading scripted cable brand, Kent Alterman, President of Comedy Central, Paramount Network, and TV Land, indicated in an interview with Deadline last week that unscripted will remain an important part of the network’s portfolio with the popular Ink Master, Bar Rescue and Lip Sync Battle franchises, leftovers from the network’s former days as Spike, joined by new additions like Wife Swap.
Season 12 of Ink Master, titled Ink Master: Battle Of The Sexes, will premiere Tuesday,...
While Paramount Network had been designated as Viacom’s leading scripted cable brand, Kent Alterman, President of Comedy Central, Paramount Network, and TV Land, indicated in an interview with Deadline last week that unscripted will remain an important part of the network’s portfolio with the popular Ink Master, Bar Rescue and Lip Sync Battle franchises, leftovers from the network’s former days as Spike, joined by new additions like Wife Swap.
Season 12 of Ink Master, titled Ink Master: Battle Of The Sexes, will premiere Tuesday,...
- 5/7/2019
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
IMDb.com, Inc. takes no responsibility for the content or accuracy of the above news articles, Tweets, or blog posts. This content is published for the entertainment of our users only. The news articles, Tweets, and blog posts do not represent IMDb's opinions nor can we guarantee that the reporting therein is completely factual. Please visit the source responsible for the item in question to report any concerns you may have regarding content or accuracy.