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John Malone Predicts Future SpaceX Investment in Skydance

Garrett Searight
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John Malone Predicts Future SpaceX Investment in Skydance

John Malone believes SpaceX will eventually invest billions of dollars in Skydance. The media mogul shared his prediction while speaking at the Paley Center International Council Summit.

What We Know: Malone predicted that SpaceX could invest between $8 billion and $10 billion in Skydance, helping the company reduce its debt burden. The proposed investment could accompany a global output deal between the companies. Skydance CEO David Ellison has taken on significant debt as the company expands its media holdings, including its acquisition of Paramount. Malone pointed to the longstanding financial relationship between Ellison’s father, Larry Ellison, and Elon Musk as a potential indicator of future collaboration.

What They Said: “I think there’s a deal coming there,” Malone said, citing an eyebrow-raisingly specific $8 billion to $10 billion investment figure. “I predict, big prediction, that you’ll see a global output deal for Skydance with SpaceX, and an investment by SpaceX into Skydance, to delever Skydance and take a little bit of the burden off David Ellison’s shoulders, because he’s taking on a pretty big pile of debt … Who helped Elon finance Twitter when he bought it? Larry Ellison. How did Larry Ellison come up with some of the money to put into the creation of Skydance? Tesla stock. And I would not doubt for a minute that before very long you’re going to see an announcement.” -John Malone

What Remains Unclear: Neither SpaceX nor Skydance has publicly confirmed a potential investment or global output agreement. Malone also didn’t provide a timeline for when an announcement might come. It’s unclear what programming or content a potential agreement would cover, or what financial terms the companies might negotiate.

What It Means: A SpaceX investment could provide Skydance with additional capital as David Ellison continues integrating Paramount’s assets. Moreover, a global output deal could create new opportunities to distribute content across platforms and markets. However, until either company confirms discussions or announces an agreement, Malone’s prediction remains speculative.

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Michael Wilbon: Avoiding Hot Take “Bulls**t” Is Why Pardon the Interruption Leads ESPN Viewership

John Mamola
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Michael Wilbon: Avoiding Hot Take “Bulls**t” Is Why Pardon the Interruption Leads ESPN Viewership

Michael Wilbon says Pardon the Interruption outdraws other ESPN studio shows by rejecting the network’s suggested formula for studio shows. The co-host made his case during a recent appearance with Dan Le Batard.

What We Know: Wilbon spent roughly three decades at The Washington Post before joining ESPN full-time in 2010. Additionally, he has co-hosted Pardon the Interruption alongside former Post colleague Tony Kornheiser since the show’s debut in 2001. Now, the program celebrates its 25th anniversary Thursday. During the interview with Le Batard, Wilbon argued PTI earns better ratings than ESPN shows built on hot takes and forced content regarding certain NFL teams.

What They Said: (all quotes via The Dan Le Batard Show):

Michael Wilbon says PTI gets higher ratings by not following ESPN’s content model for other shows: “I’m gonna be snippy now. Then if that’s [hot takes draw audience] the case, how come their fu****g shows don’t get the ratings we get? If all that bull**** automatically brought you more ratings, then how come the younger, fluffier-haired people can’t get more ratings than the two old ball cats who are 20 years older than them? Seriously. If talking about the [Dallas] Cowboys every god**** day is supposed to deliver you the ratings, why are our ratings higher?”

Michael Wilbon says he’s never given a hot take: “Don’t ever say I gave a hot take. There’s no hot takes. We don’t give hot takes. I have an opinion, and I will give that opinion. And it will be as informed as I can make it. You say hot takes, I’ll knock your ass out. Hot takes are empty. They’re bull***t.”

Michael Wilbon believes Stephen A. Smith’s approach to First Take is different than his on Pardon the Interruption: “Rising tide lifts all boats. I’m hugging Stephen A [Smith] when I see him, but don’t tell me it’s the same. He says to me, “How come you can get away with criticism of the same athlete in the same way, and I can’t?” Cause there’s a difference between criticism and ridicule. I know you know it. Don’t pin that s**t on me. You know the difference between criticism and ridicule. If you don’t, and I know he does, I do. There’s a different way that you carry it or you bring it. He knows the difference because he did it for 20 years first.”

Michael Wilbon doesn’t consider himself or Tony Kornheiser journalists any longer: “We’re [Tony Kornheiser, Micahel Wilbon] not journalists. We violate everything we learned. I’m a trustee at what many of us considered I said they do the greatest journalism school in America and the world in Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern. I’m a trustee there. I violate everything I learned there. I am not a journalist. It’s okay, it’s all right.”

What Remains Unclear: Without question, Pardon the Interruption is on a heater lately with viewership on ESPN. Pardon the Intrruption averaged 794,000 viewers in September, its best September since 2015. Additionally, questions remain about how long the duo plans to continue as PTI turns 25.

What It Means: Ultimately, Wilbon frames PTI as counterprogramming from inside ESPN itself. Rather than chasing manufactured debate, the show relies on informed opinion from two veteran voices. Still, his remarks land as a pointed jab at the network’s louder studio lineup. As a result, PTI’s longevity serves as his strongest argument that substance still sells.

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Broadcasters Foundation of America Expands Financial Aid for Broadcasters

Garrett Searight
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Broadcasters Foundation of America Expands Financial Aid for Broadcasters

The Broadcasters Foundation of America is expanding its financial assistance to radio and television professionals facing hardship. The organization’s new Hardship Grants will help broadcasters manage unexpected expenses and periods of reduced income.

What We Know: The Broadcasters Foundation of America has introduced Hardship Grants. They are for broadcasters on unpaid or reduced-pay leave and those facing extraordinary expenses. Eligible circumstances include family care, housing emergencies, relocation, and theft. The Foundation’s Board of Directors unanimously approved the initiative at its most recent meeting, and applications are already being accepted. The new program marks the third category of assistance offered by the organization. The Foundation also provides monthly grants to broadcasters dealing with prolonged illnesses. It also offers emergency grants to those affected by disasters, including floods and hurricanes.

What They Said: “This expands our ability to reach broadcasters who are struggling to meet their expenses because of extraordinary circumstances. I was delighted that the Board unanimously approved this initiative. We are up and running and ready to help more members of our broadcasting community when they need it most.” -Broadcasters Foundation of America Chair Scott Herman

“Our mission is to help broadcasters in need, and that commitment continues to guide everything we do. By expanding our grant programs, we can respond to a broader range of circumstances and provide critical assistance to more people in our industry when they need a helping hand.” -Broadcasters Foundation of America President Tim McCarthy

What Remains Unclear: The Foundation hasn’t disclosed how much funding it has allocated to the new Hardship Grants program or how many broadcasters it expects to assist. Specific eligibility requirements, individual grant amounts, and application deadlines also weren’t detailed in the announcement.

What It Means: The expanded program gives broadcasters another potential source of financial relief when unexpected circumstances threaten their stability. By addressing hardships beyond prolonged illness and natural disasters, the Foundation can reach more industry professionals facing financial challenges. The initiative also reinforces the importance of industry support networks as broadcasters navigate personal emergencies and employment uncertainty.

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Bonneville Names Nathan Gilbert Director of Sales in Denver

Garrett Searight
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Bonneville Names Nathan Gilbert Director of Sales in Denver

Bonneville International has promoted Nathan Gilbert to Director of Sales for its Denver cluster. Gilbert moves into the role after serving as the cluster’s General Sales Manager for the past year.

What We Know: Gilbert’s promotion takes effect immediately. During his year as General Sales Manager, he built trust with the sales team and made an impact on the organization. Now, he’ll lead Bonneville Denver’s entire sales operation, overseeing efforts to strengthen client relationships and drive business growth. The promotion recognizes his work with the cluster and positions him to guide its sales strategy moving forward.

What They Said: “I’m honored and excited to accept the Director of Sales position at Bonneville Denver. This is an opportunity to build on a strong foundation of trusted brands, talented people, and meaningful connections with the communities we serve. I look forward to working alongside our team to deepen client partnerships and help businesses achieve their goals through the power of our local media platforms. My priority is to create an environment where our people feel supported, challenged, and equipped to succeed. By investing in their development, encouraging collaboration, and keeping our clients’ needs at the center of our work, we can drive lasting growth for both our partners and Bonneville Denver. I’m grateful for the trust placed in me and confident in what we can accomplish together.” -Nathan Gilbert

“This was an easy decision and a natural transition given Nathan’s proven track record. He has built trust with our sales team and made a huge impact over the past year. I’m excited to see him build on that momentum as our Director of Sales.” -Bonneville Denver Senior Vice President and Market Manager Katie Reid

What Remains Unclear: Bonneville Denver hasn’t announced any additional leadership changes or outlined specific sales targets for Gilbert’s new role. The company also hasn’t detailed any changes to its sales structure following the promotion.

What It Means: Gilbert’s appointment gives Bonneville Denver an established leader to guide its sales organization. Because he spent the past year as General Sales Manager, he’ll bring familiarity. His stated focus on staff development and stronger client partnerships suggests that maintaining relationships will be central to his approach. The promotion also provides continuity for Bonneville Denver as Gilbert takes responsibility for its broader sales operation.

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Funkmaster Flex, TT Torrez Offer Conflicting Accounts of MSG Altercation

Jason Barrett
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Funkmaster Flex, TT Torrez Offer Conflicting Accounts of MSG Altercation

Funkmaster Flex and former HOT 97 colleague TT Torrez are sharing conflicting accounts of a Tuesday night fight at MSG. Both sides shared their versions on Instagram.

What We Know: The incident happened inside the Delta Lounge at Madison Square Garden on October 20th prior to the Knicks season opener vs. the Philadelphia 76ers. Video of the scuffle quickly spread across social media.

According to Torrez, the confrontation started as a verbal exchange between Flex and her husband. Her statement, released by Now PR Agency CEO Roseay, claims Flex then shoved her. Additionally, the statement alleges years of harassment and bullying from Flex during their time together at HOT 97. Torrez reached a settlement with Mediaco’s HOT 97 that included a non-disparagement agreement. She claims Flex has continued to violate it. Her representative also told TMZ she filed an online police report.

What They Said: Torrez’s statement framed the night as part of a longer pattern.

“A verbal exchange between her husband and Funkmaster Flex escalated into a physical confrontation in which Funkmaster Flex shoved her violently. There is no justification for a man to put his hands on a woman, under any circumstances.” –Statement on behalf of TT Torrez

The statement also pushed back on the viral clip.

“The brief video circulating online does not tell the full story. What the public saw was a husband defending his wife.”

Flex, however, mocked the allegations in a pair of Instagram posts.

“HAHAHAHAH! ASSAULTED WHEN? IM MINDING MY BUISNESS? SHADOW U MAD? WHO THAT WITH U?” –Funkmaster Flex

In a second post, Flex claimed the couple was chasing a payday.

“THIS MUSIC INDUSTRY COUPLE HAS AN “ACTIVE CASE” AGAINST ME AND MY COMPANY! TRYING HARD TO BAIT ME INTO A PAYOUT!” –Funkmaster Flex

What Remains Unclear: Neither side has released complete video of the incident. Flex’s posts reference a “Shadow Stokes,” but Torrez’s statement doesn’t name her husband. Meanwhile, no arrests or charges had been announced as of Wednesday morning, according to The Source. HOT 97 and Madison Square Garden have not commented publicly.

What It Means: Flex has been a HOT 97 fixture for more than three decades. As a result, a public fight with a former colleague puts Mediaco in an uncomfortable position. Following last week’s events involving The Kid Mero and Kaz taking aim at their employer, it creates even more friction for the organization. Flex is also teasing “THURSDAY! 7PM! I GOT A STORY TO TELL!” in one post. So this story likely isn’t finished. As Damizza points out on Instagram below, an analog radio personality being clipped and promoted across digital media, and driving tune in to an upcoming show suggest radio is back!

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 News Adds Kate DePetro as Behind-the-Scenes Insider

Garrett Searight
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Fox News Adds Kate DePetro as Behind-the-Scenes Insider

Fox News has added Kate DePetro as a content creator for Fox News Now Insider. She’ll share behind-the-scenes access to the network and its affiliated properties.

What We Know: DePetro previously worked as an assistant to Dana Perino at Fox News. Now, she’ll take on a new role creating content for Fox News Now Insider, where she’ll offer viewers a closer look at the people and operations behind Fox News, Fox Business Network, and other Fox properties. She’ll primarily appear on the Fox News Now platform, bringing audiences behind the scenes and introducing familiar network personalities in new ways. Additionally, DePetro credited Perino with helping her develop creatively and build the confidence to pursue her ideas.

What They Said: “I’ll be taking you behind the scenes, introducing you to some familiar faces in a whole new way, and bringing you along for all the fun!” -Kate DePetro

What Remains Unclear: The network hasn’t outlined a specific schedule for DePetro’s content or detailed how frequently she’ll appear on Fox News Now. The network also hasn’t disclosed whether her role will expand to include additional programming or responsibilities across its other properties.

What It Means: DePetro’s addition gives Fox News another way to connect with audiences beyond traditional television programming. By offering behind-the-scenes footage and access to familiar personalities, she can give viewers a more personal look at the network’s operations. Meanwhile, DePetro’s experience working alongside Perino gives her familiarity with the network and its personalities as she steps into a more public-facing role. The move also reflects a continued effort to develop digital content that builds stronger connections with viewers across platforms.

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NFL Media Chief Hans Schroeder Sees Global Streamers As A Growing Opportunity

John Mamola
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NFL Media Chief Hans Schroeder Sees Global Streamers As A Growing Opportunity

The NFL sees global streamers as a growing piece of its future. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, executive VP and chief media officer Hans Schroeder says YouTube and Netflix could bring global audiences to league games while eventizing the exhibitions.

What We Know: Schroeder spoke to THR amid major shakeups, including Skydance’s creation and Fox’s pending Roku purchase. Additionally, Netflix made major layoffs last week and have had major executive changes, while NBCUniversal faces a looming spinoff. Meanwhile, the league’s current media deals include an opt-out after the 2029 season. Netflix already carries NFL games while YouTube previously did but owns the NFL Sunday Ticket product. But Schroeder hinted that he’s excited to see how the league wants to deepen those ties.

What They Said: NFL executive VP and chief media officer Hans Schroeder (via The Hollywood Reporter): “There’s really this gathering momentum about how we can further eventize some of the parts on our schedule and our calendar. [Plus] how you bring different elements to it. I thought a really magical one was what collectively the Saints, the city of New Orleans, ESPN, the Falcons, the league did to really celebrate the return to Superdome in week four. That was a really magical moment on the calendar. [It] made that Atlanta New Orleans game all that more special. There’s a lot more ways we can do that.”

NFL executive VP and chief media officer Hans Schroeder (via The Hollywood Reporter): “What a global partner can do that can truly bring a global audience behind it is really exciting. Those platforms like a YouTube or Netflix that have global fans well beyond the NFL. They can tap into and they can pull into for us is incredibly exciting to see. It’s just the tip of the iceberg there about how those two things can come together, and so we think there’s a lot more to come.”

What Remains Unclear: Still, nobody knows when the league will reopen rights talks. The NFL reportedly approached Paramount/Skydance this spring, but did not discuss items with FOX or NBC Sports. Fox CEO Lachlan Murdoch said this summer that the company would revisit the deal in a couple of years. Moreover, Netflix’s appetite and YouTube’s plans beyond Sunday Ticket remain open questions.

What It Means: Ultimately, the NFL wants partners that can grow its audience beyond U.S. borders but also make broadcasts bigger than the game itself. That makes international games and eventized matchups a natural fit for global streamers. In the meantime, Disney’s Super Bowl LXI, with multiple alternate broadcasts, offers an early preview potentially. Consequently, the next rights cycle could look very different from the last one.

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Abby Jessen Named Brand Manager of B98.5

Garrett Searight
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Abby Jessen Named Brand Manager of B98.5

B98.5 has promoted Abby Jessen to Director of Branding and Programming. The Atlanta native brings extensive programming, management, and on-air experience to the role.

What We Know: Jessen will lead B98.5’s programming, brand strategy, and audience growth, effective immediately. She’ll also continue hosting middays on the Atlanta adult contemporary station. Jessen began her career with Cox Media Group in Athens, Georgia, where she programmed WGAU and 103.7 Chuck FM. She also anchored Saturday news for 95.5 WSB. Later, she spent three years in Tulsa as Director of Branding and Programming for Mix 96.5, where she also hosted afternoons. Jessen subsequently returned to Atlanta as Assistant Director of Branding and Programming and a midday host on B98.5. In addition, she hosts on Easy 102.9 in Jacksonville, 106.1 WNGC in Athens, and Hits 105.3 in San Antonio. An Atlanta native and University of Georgia graduate, Jessen has spent more than a decade with CMG.

What They Said: “I’m incredibly grateful to the mentors, teammates, friends and my wonderful husband who have supported me throughout my career. I grew up listening to B98.5, so it is truly a privilege to continue working with this amazing team to serve our listeners and the community we call home.” -Abby Jessen

“Abby’s promotion to B98.5 Director of Branding and Programming is incredibly well deserved. Throughout more than a decade with CMG, she has continued to grow as a leader and has brought creativity, passion and a deep commitment to every role she has held. Since returning to Atlanta, Abby’s leadership and guidance have helped strengthen B98.5’s position as a leading adult contemporary brand. I’m excited to see how her vision and creativity take B98.5 to even greater heights.” -Cox Media Group Atlanta Director of Operations and Programming Jules Riley

What Remains Unclear: CMG hasn’t announced any changes to B98.5’s on-air lineup following Jessen’s promotion. The company also hasn’t detailed any specific programming initiatives or audience growth targets under her leadership.

What It Means: Jessen’s promotion puts an experienced programmer in charge of a familiar Atlanta brand. Her background spans multiple markets and formats, while her existing relationship with B98.5 gives her an understanding of its listeners. By retaining her midday shift, she’ll continue connecting with the audience while overseeing the station’s broader programming and brand strategy.

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Tony Kornheiser Credits Pardon the Interruption’s Lack Of Change For Long Term Success

John Mamola
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Tony Kornheiser Credits Pardon the Interruption’s Lack Of Change For Long Term Success

Pardon the Interruption turns 25 on Thursday. Tony Kornheiser credits the ESPN show’s staying power to one simple thing: it never changed.

What We Know: Pardon the Interruption debuted on ESPN on October 22, 2001. Since then, Kornheiser and Michael Wilbon have anchored the rapid-fire debate show together. Both men built their careers as longtime columnists at The Washington Post. Recently, the pair reflected on the milestone of the program’s 25th anniversary during an appearance on The Real Deal with Tony Reali.

What They Said: (All quotes via The Real Deal with Tony Reali):

Tony Kornheiser believes the power of Pardon the Interruption is it’s never truly changed: “You can look at our show when it started. Ten years in, twenty years in, right now, and see the same spine of the show all the time. Mike [Wilbon] has gotten angrier lately, but the show is the show. When we are together in studio, and it’s not all the time. We can make each other laugh. I can’t tell you how many people now, granted it’s mostly older people because my life is built around and lived around mostly older people. They say they watch all the time, and they continue to like it [Pardon the Interruption] if not love it.”

Tony Kornheiser believes he and Michael Wilbon should never be considered television hosts: “I’m a newspaper sports writer. He’s a newspaper sports writer. This thing is great. This is not who we are. We are newspaper sports writers. That’s who we are.”

Tony Kornheiser regrets the death of the newspaper industry: “I thought I had the best job in the world. I didn’t know it [till] very recently. Within the last five, six, eight years that I realized that newspapers were done. I was very slow to it. Also, I am divorced from it… This is one of the things that I say all the time to my son. Your children, my grandsons, will never understand what I did for a living. They’ll never understand it and never have a newspaper to live at their house. They’ll never understand picking the newspaper up and reading it and knowing the pleasure of it.”

Michael Wilbon on how ‘hot takes’ have taken over sports debate: “I fear the worst. I think that the word hot take has ruined the expressing of opinion. I think that this show [Pardon the Interruption] has remained overwhelmingly, not entirely, what it started as. It’s because we hold each other accountable.”

What Remains Unclear: Still, the pair did not say how long they plan to continue the show. Both Kornheiser and Wilbon noted in their appearance that they hope to continue the show for a couple of more years. However, any confirmation of that remains unclear.

What It Means: Ultimately, PTI’s unchanged formula remains a rarity in sports television. Meanwhile, Wilbon fears that hot takes stemming from PTI’s success have hurt how opinion is expressed in sports. Even so, he believes PTI has largely avoided that trap because the hosts hold each other accountable. As a result, the show enters its second quarter-century with its identity intact.

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580 KMJ Adding Sports Talk Show Hosted by Christopher Gabriel

Garrett Searight
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580 KMJ Adding Sports Talk Show Hosted by Christopher Gabriel

580 KMJ is adding a live sports talk show to its weekday lineup. The Christopher Gabriel Program will move to Fridays at 5 p.m. beginning October 23rd.

What We Know: The Christopher Gabriel Program will air live on the Cumulus Fresno news/talk station every Friday at 5 p.m. Previously, Gabriel hosted the show at 10 a.m. on Saturdays, with episodes recorded in advance. The move brings the program to a live weekday timeslot for the first time. An encore presentation will continue airing Saturdays at 10 a.m. Meanwhile, Gabriel will retain his morning drive hosting duties at 580 KMJ. The addition is believed to mark the first time in the station’s more than 100-year history that a dedicated sports talk show has been part of its weekday lineup.

What’s at Stake: The change gives 580 KMJ an opportunity to expand its programming to the sports arena while keeping Gabriel in a prominent role. By moving the show to Friday afternoons, the station can offer listeners a live sports discussion as the weekend approaches. Additionally, the Saturday encore preserves the program’s previous timeslot for its existing audience.

What Remains Unclear: The station hasn’t detailed whether the new schedule will lead to additional changes in the program’s format or content. It also remains unclear whether 580 KMJ plans to expand its sports programming beyond the weekly show.

What It Means: The move represents a programming milestone for 580 KMJ, which has operated for more than a century. Gabriel’s expanded role gives the station a dedicated weekday sports offering without sacrificing its established morning drive presence. The first live Friday broadcast is scheduled for October 23rd.

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