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Fred Toucher Cautions NFL, Streaming Platforms Adding Games On More Days Per Week

John Mamola
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Fred Toucher Cautions NFL, Streaming Platforms Adding Games On More Days Per Week

Fred Toucher thinks the NFL and streaming platforms are pushing their luck. The 98.5 The Sports Hub host warned Friday that adding games on more days would be a giant mistake.

What We Know: Toucher made the comments Friday on Toucher & Hardy following the New England Patriots loss on Thursday Night Football on Prime Video. Meanwhile, the league already spreads games across CBS, FOX Sports, NBC, ESPN, Amazon Prime Video and Netflix. In fact, Netflix grew to five games this season, including a new Thanksgiving Eve matchup. While discussing the Patriots matchup, Toucher turned the conversation inward as the upcoming rights talks with the NFL will be front and center for many of the league’s network partners.

What They Said: (all quotes via 98.5 The Sports Hub):

Fred Toucher doesn’t understand why any network or streaming services pays what they do for the NFL: “I don’t know every reason why networks pay so much for [NFL] football. It’s not because of the eyeballs on it. It goes beyond that. They don’t make enough in ad revenue to justify the cost. They lose money if you just go buy ad revenue to spending. I know the streaming services don’t pick up enough subscribers to like level out the amount that they’ve spent… I believe that the return on investment in advertising and the usefulness of the NFL. If it’s an everyday thing, is going to go out the window.”

Fred Toucher says any streaming service should be careful about adding NFL games on different days: “If I have a new streaming service and I want the NFL, Monday, Thursday, and Sunday’s taken. Okay, what do you got? Something around Thanksgiving? No, we’re thinking of starting Tuesday night football, and we want you to be the streaming service. Honestly, I’ll wait. Because I don’t want to be the service that is the tipping point for people when they just start getting pissed.”

Fred Toucher believes any streamer adding games on non traditional NFL days is making a mistake: “It is that Sunday sport. If you’re not doing it just based on entirely on ad revenue, if I’m a streaming service, I don’t want to be the service that has it on Tuesday. That almost ends up being like a net negative. I don’t want to be the service that is getting the product that is the tipping point.”

Fred Toucher believes if the NFL adds more days to the regular season schedule, it would be a mistake: “If on a weekly basis or even a semi-regular basis you’re going to have [NFL] games every day of the week. I believe that is a massive, massive mistake.”

What Remains Unclear: However, the NFL has pushed its partners to renegotiate early. Still, Fox CEO Lachlan Murdoch said the network won’t amend its deal before the opt-out window while the league reportedly has held talks with CBS Sports. For now, where the league adds future inventory remains an open question.

What It Means: Ultimately, Toucher’s argument comes down to oversaturation. Already, this season features games on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday. Consequently, Tuesday is about the only night left. If Toucher is right, the next streamer to claim it could pay the price.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

Worldwide News Network Names Brandon Ison Vice President of News and Operations

Garrett Searight
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Worldwide News Network Names Brandon Ison Vice President of News and Operations

Worldwide News Network has named Brandon Ison its Vice President of News and Operations, Barrett Media has confirmed. Ison joined the Red Apple Media-owned network when it launched in May.

What We Know: Ison takes over the role from Lee Harris, who exited the network earlier this year. Harris helped launch Worldwide News Network following the shuttering of CBS News Radio. Before joining the new network, Ison spent nearly seven years as an anchor and reporter at WBBM Newsradio in Chicago. He also previously worked for Alpha Media as a news anchor and reporter. His appointment puts an experienced radio journalist in a leadership position as Worldwide News Network continues building its news operation.

What’s at Stake: Worldwide News Network entered the radio news business in May following the end of CBS News Radio, creating a new option for stations seeking national news programming. With Ison now overseeing news and operations, the network will need to maintain its journalism and operational consistency while serving its affiliate stations. His experience at WBBM Newsradio gives him a background in a major-market newsroom, while his work at Alpha Media adds experience from another radio group.

What Remains Unclear: Worldwide News Network hasn’t detailed any specific changes Ison plans to make in his new role. The network also hasn’t outlined whether his appointment will lead to changes in programming, staffing, or its affiliate strategy.

What It Means: Ison’s promotion represents a leadership transition for a network still in its first year. Because he joined at launch, he brings familiarity with the operation as it moves forward without Harris. His experience across radio newsrooms could help Worldwide News Network establish its place in the national news marketplace.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

Fubo Sports Network Extends The Hoops HQ, Adds NFL Stock Exchange

John Mamola
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Fubo Sports Network Extends The Hoops HQ, Adds NFL Stock Exchange

Fubo Sports Network is adding more football and basketball this fall. Season 2 of The Hoops HQ Show and the new NFL Stock Exchange lead the slate.

What We Know: Seth Davis and Andy Katz return Tuesdays and Fridays at 11 a.m. ET. Meanwhile, Trevor Sikkema and Connor Rogers host NFL Stock Exchange Wednesdays and Saturdays in the same slot. Both shows join The Daily Gameplan, a new morning talk block that features Fantasy Life, Simms Complete and Fubo News. Additionally, Kentucky’s Mark Pope and Villanova’s Kevin Willard are among this season’s Hoops HQ guests. Fubo Sports Network launched in 2019 and now streams 1,200 hours of live content annually. Furthermore, it airs free on a dozen platforms, including The Roku Channel, Tubi and Samsung TV Plus.

What They Said: Pamela Duckworth, head of Fubo Studios, Fubo: “Fall is one of the most anticipated times of the year for sports fans, and we are leaning into the action with even more football and basketball programming for the 2026-27 season on Fubo Sports Network. Our partners at Hoops HQ and Fantasy Life have brought star guests and deep insider knowledge to our audiences, and we are gearing up for yet another round of electric college and pro sports.”

What Remains Unclear: However, Fubo has not shared any viewership figures for its morning talk programming. Also, no terms and financials were released with the additional programming.

What It Means: Fubo is betting on daily, personality-driven shows to keep fans tuned in year-round. Moreover, recognizable names like Davis and Katz give the free channel added credibility. Ultimately, the expanded lineup positions FAST channels as a real destination for sports talk.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

States Pushing To Break Up Live Nation After Landmark Monopoly Verdict

John Mamola
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States Pushing To Break Up Live Nation After Landmark Monopoly Verdict

A federal jury found Live Nation illegally monopolized live events. Now, reportedly several states want a judge to break the company apart.

What We Know: The Justice Department and more than 30 states sued Live Nation for monopolization in 2024. However, the DOJ settled one week into trial, so a group of states pressed on without it. In April, a New York federal jury sided with them. As a result, those states now want Ticketmaster split off, plus forced venue sales and limits on acquisitions. Judge Arun Subramanian missed his own July deadline to rule on Live Nation’s bid to toss the verdict. As of publishing, Subramanian still has not set next steps on whether or not to approach the DOJ settlement. Live Nation plans to appeal the jury’s decision

What They Said: David Weingarden, vice president for concerts and events at Colorado’s Z2 Entertainment (via Los Angeles Times): “As long as one company controls both the shows, tickets, and artist management, they can always tilt the playing field in their own favor.”

Tom DeGeorge, owner Crowbar Venue, Tampa, FL (via Los Angeles Times): “If Live Nation wasn’t the monopoly they were, I think all of our independent venues would have the ability to thrive much more. When you have one entity that comes in that controls the entire ocean, nobody else gets to swim.”

Live Nation statement to Los Angeles Times: “Small venues often operate on slim margins, and when faced with the broader economic pressures we are witnessing today, some fail. But there is also significant new investment in small venues. Live Nation is not dominant. A large majority of shows we promote take place in venues we don’t own — over 5,000 shows last year.”

What Remains Unclear: While the battles out in courts, it’s still unknown if Live Nation will be forced by pressure to split Ticketmaster away from its business model.

What It Means: For independent operators, a breakup could rebalance a lopsided market. Since 2020, roughly 480 independent venues have closed, according to the National Independent Venue Assn. Ultimately, the ruling could reshape how promoters book, sell and stage concerts nationwide.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

850 WFTL Host Joyce Kaufman Announces Upcoming Retirement

Garrett Searight
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850 WFTL Host Joyce Kaufman Announces Upcoming Retirement

Joyce Kaufman is retiring from 850 WFTL after 37 years with the South Florida radio station. The longtime host will conclude her career following the 2026 Midterm Elections.

What We Know: Kaufman currently hosts a one-hour show at 3 p.m. on 850 WFTL. After nearly four decades at the station, she plans to step away once the 2026 Midterm Elections conclude. Her retirement will mark the end of a 37-year run with the South Florida talk radio outlet. Kaufman announced the decision while reflecting on her career and the listeners who have followed her throughout the years.

What They Said: “After a lot of thought, I’ve made one of the most difficult decisions of my career. It’s time for me to hang up my headphones and begin a new chapter: retirement. But before I go, there’s something very important I want to do. I want to say thank you. Thank you for all the years you’ve spent listening, for allowing me into your homes, your cars, and your lives. For letting me share my thoughts, my opinions, my stories, and sometimes even a little piece of my heart … You’ve been such an important part of my life, and I hope you’ll join me as we close this chapter together.” -Joyce Kaufman

What Remains Unclear: Kaufman hasn’t announced whether she’ll pursue any projects after leaving 850 WFTL. Additionally, the station hasn’t outlined plans for its 3 p.m. hour following her departure. Her final broadcast date will follow the conclusion of the 2026 Midterm Elections.

What It Means: Kaufman’s retirement brings an end to a 37-year tenure at 850 WFTL. Her departure will close a significant chapter in the station’s programming history. Moreover, her message highlights the relationship she built with listeners over decades on the air. The station will eventually need to determine how it will fill the hour she currently hosts.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

NYSBA Inducts the 2026 Hall of Fame Class

Garrett Searight
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NYSBA Inducts the 2026 Hall of Fame Class

The New York State Broadcasters Association honored seven industry professionals with induction into its Hall of Fame Class of 2026. The NYSBA held the ceremony Thursday at the Rainbow Room in New York City.

What We Know: WABC-TV anchor Bill Ritter, 77WABC host Sid Rosenberg, and WNYW-TV anchor Rosanna Scotto represent New York City. Additionally, WHAM-TV’s Chuck Samuels joins the class from Rochester, while Dan Miner, Pete Cloutier, and Bob Krummenacker represent stations in Glens Falls and Binghamton.

What They Said: “This class represents everything that makes New York broadcasting extraordinary. From the biggest stage in America to the outstanding communities of Rochester, Glens Falls and Binghamton, these seven individuals have earned the trust of their audiences every single day. It was an honor to celebrate them for their incredible careers.” -NYSBA President and Executive Director Heidi Raphael

“On behalf of the NYSBA Board of Directors, congratulations to the Class of 2026. Each of these honorees has spent a career earning the trust of New Yorkers, on the air and in the community. Their dedication strengthens every station in this state, and we are proud to welcome them into the Hall of Fame.” -NYSBA Chair Chris Musial

What Remains Unclear: The association’s announcement does not detail individual remarks from the honorees or outline any additional activities connected to the induction ceremony.

What It Means: The Hall of Fame recognizes broadcasters whose work has built lasting relationships with audiences across New York. Moreover, this year’s class highlights contributions from both television and radio personalities. The induction also underscores the role local broadcasters continue to play in informing and connecting their audiences.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

NBC Sports Earns 7.7 Million Viewers For 76ers-Knicks Opening NBA Tip-Off

John Mamola
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NBC Sports Earns 7.7 Million Viewers For 76ers-Knicks Opening NBA Tip-Off

NBC Sports set NBA Tip-Off viewership records on Tuesday night. LeBron James’ 76ers debut against the Knicks averaged 7.7 million viewers, the most-watched Tip-Off primetime game ever.

What We Know: The 76ers-Knicks game rose 32% from last year’s early primetime game, Rockets-Thunder, which drew 5.9 million. It also topped the previous record of 7.3 million, set by Heat-Celtics in 2010. Meanwhile, the full primetime doubleheader averaged 6.4 million viewers, up 14% from last year’s 5.6 million. Additionally, the first-ever Tip-Off tripleheader on one network averaged 5.1 million viewers. Viewership peaked at 9.1 million from 9:45 to 10 p.m. ET. That peak came as the 76ers closed out a 106-100 win at Madison Square Garden. It also stands as an NBA Tip-Off record.

What’s At Stake: The combination of LeBron James’ first game for Philadelphia and the New York Knicks championship celebration proved to be a ratings winner. The league was hopeful to have this level of matchup to open the season, hence why Commissioner Adam Silver pushed publicly for James to select a new team ahead of the league’s schedule release this summer. Whether the momentum will continue deep into the NBA regular season is yet to be seen.

What Remains Unclear: However, not every number climbed. The Thunder-Spurs nightcap averaged 4.8 million viewers, trailing last year’s Warriors-Lakers game at 5.1 million. Still, it ranks as the second most-watched late primetime Tip-Off game ever. Whether NBC can sustain this momentum beyond opening night remains an open question.

What It Means: For NBC Sports, the early returns support its investment in the NBA. Moreover, daytime Celtics-Pistons drew 2.5 million viewers, a weekday afternoon regular-season record, excluding holiday games. Next, Warriors-Nuggets opens Peacock NBA Monday on Oct. 26. Then, Coast 2 Coast Tuesday debuts Oct. 27 with Pistons-Knicks and Trail Blazers-Lakers.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

2026 Astra Podcast Awards Nominations Revealed

Michael Krantz
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2026 Astra Podcast Awards Nominations Revealed

November 11th will put podcasting’s biggest names in the spotlight. The 2026 Astra Podcast Awards nominees include a long list of established hosts

What We Know: The Hollywood Creative Alliance announced nominees in 16 categories ahead of its November 11th ceremony, which will take place at The Garland Hotel in Studio City, California. Every nominee also qualifies for Podcast of the Year. In celebrity, Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard and Good Hang with Amy Poehler face Dear Chelsea and Fly on the Wall. Meanwhile, Call Her Daddy and SmartLess compete in comedy. True crime features Crime Junkie and My Favorite Murder. Sports nominees include Pardon My Take and The Bill Simmons Podcast. Additionally, The Daily from The New York Times leads the topical news field. iHeartPodcasts also landed nods for Table Read and Pod Meets World, and independent shows are in the mix, too.

What’s at Stake: Recognition is the top prize, since every nominee is eligible for Podcast of the Year. A win could raise a show’s profile and give independents like those competing against Armchair Expert and SmartLess a marketing boost with advertisers. Meanwhile, iHeartPodcasts’ many nominations will test whether volume translates into wins. Ultimately, the Alliance needs a credible ceremony to establish the Astra Awards as a respected honor.

What Remains Unclear: The announcement doesn’t say who’ll host the ceremony or how winners will be revealed. It also doesn’t detail how many Alliance members vote, so predicting results is tough. Likewise, organizers haven’t named any early favorites for Podcast of the Year. Additionally, The Hollywood Creative Alliance hasn’t detailed how it evaluates podcasts with vastly different audiences and production budgets.

What It Means: Podcasting is moving closer to the traditional entertainment world, and awards like these could speed that up. Celebrity-led shows such as Armchair Expert and SmartLess keep drawing the spotlight, so wins for them would signal that star power still drives recognition. Meanwhile, honors for independent shows could help advertisers and listeners find voices outside the major networks. If the Astra Awards gain traction, trophies could also become a new selling point.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

Pardon the Interruption Celebrates 25 Years As Tony Kornheiser, Michael Wilbon Trade Barbs and Memories

Michael Krantz
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Pardon the Interruption Celebrates 25 Years As Tony Kornheiser, Michael Wilbon Trade Barbs and Memories

The PTI (Pardon the Interruption) 25th anniversary special turned into a heartfelt celebration of sports debate. Michael Wilbon and Tony Kornheiser looked back on a quarter century together.

What We Know: The show debuted October 22, 2001, and Wilbon and Kornheiser have remained its original co-hosts. Both worked as sports columnists at The Washington Post, where their newsroom debates inspired the format. Today, PTI is ESPN’s most-watched daily studio show, averaging 718,000 viewers in 2026. Meanwhile, Thursday’s show revisited memorable segments reminisced about the last quarter century of sports moments, and replayed legendary soundbites. The duo credited longtime contributors including Bob Ryan, David Aldridge and Charles Barkley. Moreover, they said goodbye to retired segments including Report Card and Oddsmakers. Tony Reali, who was known as Stat Boy during his 13 year run on the show, returned to revisit the hosts’ biggest blunders and share heartfelt words.

What They Said: Tony Kornheiser-“I think we lasted this long because it’s always been sort of fun.”

Michael Wilbon-“That run, Tony, for eight or nine years where Tiger (Woods) had greater impact than anyone in sports, period. To me, I got Steph Curry next because he changed basketball, the sport, because shooting changed it in a way nobody else did.” 

Erik Rydholm, executive producer-.”PTI continues with the same level of success that it had 25 years ago, And the reason for that, for us, is Tony and Mike. Because people feel connected to them and their relationship. It feels familiar to them, with family being the essence of familiar. They feel connected to it, and that carries them through. … They have a dynamic where one plus one equals something more than two.”

What It Means: The Pardon the Interruption anniversary highlights how rare longevity is in sports television. That consistency has made the show a daily habit for fans. Moreover, the formula hasn’t changed much. Wilbon and Kornheiser still debate the day’s biggest stories, and the show still balances sharp opinions with humor. Meanwhile, the chemistry between the hosts keeps the format from feeling stale. Additionally, the outpouring of love and respect on their 25th anniversary show what PTI means to generations of athletes, coaches, journalists and fans alike.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

FOX Sports Partners With Gulfstream Park for Live Winter Racing

Michael Krantz
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FOX Sports Partners With Gulfstream Park for Live Winter Racing

FOX Sports is bringing the Gulfstream Park Championship Meet to national television in 2027. NYRA [New York Racing Association] and 1/ST made it official with a multi-year agreement.

What We Know: Beginning in 2027, live coverage will air across FOX, FS1 and FS2 as part of America’s Day at the Races. Moreover, The Equitrak Florida Derby headlines the package on on March 27. The race has produced 26 Kentucky Derby winners. Additionally, The agreement expands FOX’s existing racing slate, which includes the Belmont Stakes, Saratoga and Oaklawn. It brings the company’s horse racing portfolio to nearly 1,000 hours of live programming annually.

What They Said: Michael Mulvihill–President, Insights and Analytics, Fox Corporation. “FOX Sports is quickly becoming the year-round television home of horse racing. Gulfstream Park has always meant the best in winter racing. With Gulfstream in the winter, Del Mar in the summer and NYRA all year we’re building a year-round calendar of the very best in American racing.”

Mike Rogers, Executive Vice President, 1/ST RACING– “We are excited to work with FOX Sports as we continue to expand content offerings for horse racing fans. The Gulfstream Park Championship Meet remains one of the sport’s premier proving grounds on the road to the Triple Crown.”

Tony Allevato, NYRA Chief Revenue Officer- “This new agreement reflects NYRA’s ongoing commitment to expand the reach of AMERICA’S DAY AT THE RACES to provide high-quality, daily television coverage of the best racing in the country,”

What Remains Unclear: Neither side has disclosed financial terms or the length of the deal. Moreover, FOX also hasn’t announced how many races will air or how they will be split among networks.

What it Means: FOX could turn horse racing from a handful of marquee events into a year-round habit. Meanwhile, Carrying the meet gives the network a winter storyline. Moreover, casual fans can follow contenders leading into the Triple Crown. Meanwhile, NYRA and 1/ST gain a bigger stage for their wagering brands. Racing pairs naturally with betting-oriented content as sports media leans further into betting. 

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

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