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CNN All Access Launches With Live Channels, Video on Demand, and More

BNM Staff
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CNN All Access Launches With Live Channels, Video on Demand, and More

CNN All Access, the new streaming platform for the cable network, launched on Tuesday morning, with the outlet touting its uniqueness.

With the subscription, users will receive access to the network’s live stream, the Headlines, Originals, and Films FAST Channels, as well as videos on demand. Additionally, the subscription allows access to the network’s articles on CNN.com and the subscriber-only content provided on the website.

“This new streaming offering is unique in the news space — nothing like it exists in the marketplace,” said CNN Worldwide Executive Vice President of Digital Products and Services Alex MacCallum. “We’re delivering all of CNN’s industry-leading journalism in one place, accessible on any device.

“Whether you are a fan of the live and premium video storytelling on which CNN built its name, or prefer snackable content that catches you up on the day’s essential news and lifestyle stories, audiences can now engage with and consume the full breadth of world-class storytelling CNN and its trusted journalists are known for, however works best for them.” 

The platform is available for $6.99 per month or $69.99 annually. However, the network is offering a special introductory price of $41.99 for the first year to those who sign on before Monday, January 5th.

The network adds that “additional content offerings will be added and released in the coming months.”

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.

CBS News Interested in Adding CNN’s Scott Jennings

BNM Staff
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CBS News Interested in Adding CNN’s Scott Jennings

Reports previously surfaced that CBS News and new Editor-in-Chief Bari Weiss have eyed adding Fox News anchor Bret Baier to their stable of anchors. Now, Weiss and the network also have another high-profile cable news figure in mind to add to its roster.

According to a report from the New York Post, Weiss is also interested in plucking CNN analyst Scott Jennings from the cable network and bringing her to CBS News. Another report from Semafor suggests that Weiss and Jennings met at the CBS News headquarters last week.

Scott Jennings has seen his profile grow exponentially in recent months. In his role at CNN, he’s often seen sparring with liberal analysts and contributors — especially on the primetime NewsNight with Abby Phillip program — with clips of him arguing, disagreeing, and discrediting those on the other side of the political aisle.

Furthermore, the overtures from CBS News come as the network is in flux. Parent company Paramount Skydance is set to enact a round of widespread layoffs on Wednesday, with a reported 1,000 employees losing their jobs. Additionally, the CBS Evening News is in the midst of a ratings downturn, falling below 4 million viewers per night on average. That figure is well behind competitors ABC News and NBC News.

Bari Weiss joined CBS News earlier this month after selling her digital enterprise, The Free Press, to the parent company for $150 million. Her objective from the David Ellison-owned company was to turn the outlet more “balanced” and “fact-based.”

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.

Kendrick Perkins Reveals Growth at ESPN Came With No Pay for Over a Year

BSM Staff
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Kendrick Perkins Reveals Growth at ESPN Came With No Pay for Over a Year

ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins is no stranger to hard work, and his journey from NBA role player to national sports media personality is a testament to perseverance and dedication.

Speaking candidly about his path on the Out The Mud Podcast, Perkins described the challenges he faced in establishing himself as a credible voice in the crowded sports media landscape.

“Hall of Famers. When they finish their career, whether they good at TV, whether they got the personality or not, the red carpet is rolled out,” Perkins said. “I had to earn my stripes at that motherf*****g network. My first year and a half, I worked there for free. Motherf*****s don’t even know. I had to earn being able to capture audience as a country boy from Beaumont, Texas, that sometimes comes up there and speaks with broken English.”

Perkins acknowledged that adapting to the ESPN environment required both patience and authenticity. He recalled drawing on the colorful language and storytelling style he learned from family and friends back home, which initially took colleagues a moment to understand.

“It took a minute for people to catch on to the country sayings that I might pick up from an uncle. Or an old head from a domino table. Oh, yeah, okay, cool,” he said.

For Perkins, the opportunity to work at ESPN represented more than just a job—it was a chance to do things differently than he had in his playing career.

“I had so many regrets as a player because I didn’t put enough into it,” he said. “So when I got this opportunity, I cut out a lot of s**t. So it was the sacrifice. Part of is the—I aint smoked weed and f*****g five years type s**t.”

That level of focus and commitment carried over into his daily routine at ESPN. Perkins described the intensity of his work schedule, which often included several shows a day, and the responsibility he felt toward his millions of viewers.

“This opportunity came. I’m like, man, I’m gonna make this career better than my last. I ain’t about to have no regrets,” Perkins explained. “I can smoke all day if I want to. I don’t get drug tested. But I was like, you know what? I got to be on my s**t every day. I got to do what I need to do every day. These people are trusting me with a platform. I got millions of people watching me every day. So it was like, I got to work. I got to sacrifice. If I’m trying to get to where I’m trying to go, some s**t you got to put aside.”

Through perseverance, authenticity, and a willingness to sacrifice, Perkins has carved out a respected place at ESPN, proving that earning the spotlight requires more than just past accolades—it requires commitment, grit, and staying true to oneself.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.

Paramount Skydance to Begin Layoffs on Wednesday With 1,000 Jobs Set to Be Slashed

BNM Staff
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Paramount Skydance to Begin Layoffs on Wednesday With 1,000 Jobs Set to Be Slashed

Paramount Skydance is set to begin a round of layoffs tomorrow, with 1,000 jobs expected to be eliminated by the organization.

The overwhelming majority of the positions cut will affect U.S. employees. Cuts to the company’s international divisions will be enacted in the coming weeks.

As part of the eliminations, Paramount Skydance hopes to cut $2 billion from its annual operating budget.

The cuts come just over two months after the merger of Paramount and Skydance was officially closed, receiving government approval for the move. The merger was part of an $8.4 billion deal between the two organizations.

In federal filings in 2024, Paramount shared it had just under 19,000 employees. The company underwent a round of layoffs ahead of the merger with Skydance in June, with 3.5% of its global staff being cut in the wave of reductions. Skydance, ahead of the merger, reported it had more than 500 employees.

Previously, new president of the company, Jeff Shell, said that it would act swiftly in its job cuts, adding that they would be enacted ahead of the company’s earnings call.

“We do not want to be a company that has layoffs every quarter,” Shell said in August hours after the deal between Paramount and Skydance was approved. “So, it’s going to be painful. It’s always hard, but we don’t want to be a company that every quarter is laying people off.”

The news of the timing and size of the layoffs was first reported by Bloomberg.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.

ESPN Reportedly Eyes Scott Van Pelt as Leading Candidate To Host Program Officially Replacing ‘Around the Horn’

BSM Staff
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ESPN Reportedly Eyes Scott Van Pelt as Leading Candidate To Host Program Officially Replacing ‘Around the Horn’

ESPN is exploring major changes to its weekday lineup, with the coveted 5 p.m. ET slot—formerly home to Around The Horn—emerging as the prime timeslot for the network. Sources familiar with the discussions tell The Athletic that Scott Van Pelt, the network’s personality-driven late-night SportsCenter anchor and host of Monday Night Countdown, is a leading candidate for the shift.

In an interview with The Athletic, ESPN President of Content Burke Magnus confirmed Van Pelt is under consideration for the hour, which sits between NFL Live and Pardon The Interruption.

In fact, Van Pelt’s potential move follows earlier efforts to reunite him with former ESPN teammate Ryen Russillo. The duo previously drew a strong following on ESPN Radio. Russillo opted to move his podcast from Bill Simmons’ Ringer Network to a new Barstool Sports-backed venture.

“That was a bit of a selfish concept by me, because I was such a huge fan of those two when they were together years ago,” Magnus said to The Athletic. “It just so happened that Ryen was exploring his future on a similar timeline. He ended up doing something different.”

For Van Pelt, the timing could be ideal. The 58-year-old host currently works late nights, a schedule Magnus says can be taxing.

“I think there is a limit for how long people can have their lives upside-down from working late nights,” Magnus noted. A daytime slot would allow Van Pelt to maintain some late-night SportsCenter hosting duties, particularly following major games. Plus potentially continue on Monday Night Countdown.

ESPN is taking a deliberate approach. The 5–5:30 p.m. SportsCenter slot currently out-rates the former Around The Horn. Drawing 448,000 viewers compared to 386,000 for the same period a year ago, according to Nielsen. Magnus emphasized the network is “pleasantly surprised” by the audience growth and intends to move carefully.

No decision is expected before next year. While Van Pelt appears to be the favorite, Magnus acknowledged the network is weighing all options before launching a new 5 p.m. show.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.

93.7 The Fan Host Andrew Fillipponi Turns Nipple Piercing Wager Into Cancer Research Fundraiser

BSM Staff
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93.7 The Fan Host Andrew Fillipponi Turns Nipple Piercing Wager Into Cancer Research Fundraiser

Pittsburgh sports fans are getting an unforgettable night of live radio, pain, and purpose this week — all thanks to 93.7 The Fan’s Andrew Fillipponi. On Wednesday, the outspoken afternoon host will make good on his viral on-air promise to get his nipples pierced after losing a bet on the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Instead of hiding from the humiliation, Fillipponi is using it to raise money for breast cancer research through a live event called “Poni Pierces Cancer,” benefiting the Magee-Womens Research Institute & Foundation.

The event will take place from 6–8 PM at Mike’s Beer Bar on Pittsburgh’s North Shore, directly across from PNC Park. Fans are invited to attend, with all proceeds supporting Magee-Womens’ mission to fund life-saving research and women’s health initiatives.

“I idiotically believed in this team. They lost to Cincinnati. Now I have to get both of my nipples pierced. $33 gets you in the door,” explained Fillipponi on Monday. “You get free food from Mike’s. Get a free shirt, plus you get to watch me writhe in pain as I get my nipples pierced. Best part is all of the money that is raised is going to go to fight cancer with the Magee-Womens Institute Research Center. Plus Mike is going to match every ticket purchase up to $5,000.”

Fillipponi isn’t backing away from the bit that started it all. Before the Steelers’ Thursday Night Football loss to the Cincinnati Bengals, he boldly predicted a 38–3 blowout win. Even promised to get his nipples pierced if Pittsburgh fell short. When they did, he owned it immediately.

“I wanted to say it’s all Mike Tomlin’s fault, but it’s not,” Fillipponi admitted last week. “I’m the stupid a** that said, ‘Oh, this game is going to be different.’ I’ll go do something asinine and pop off and make some kind of BS wager I’ll never have to worry about paying off. Sure, I’ll get my nipples pierced. What difference does it make?”

To his credit, Fillipponi is turning a radio stunt into something meaningful. “We’re talking about nipples, and it’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month. So there’s actually some good that’s going to come out of this.”

He’s also promised to take the piercing “like a pro” — no numbing, no shortcuts, just live accountability.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.

96.5 WKLH Adds “Big Jake” Calgaro to Nights

BMM Staff
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96.5 WKLH Adds “Big Jake” Calgaro to Nights

There’s a new nighttime jock at Milwaukee’s classic rock 96.5 WKLH, as “Big Jake” Calgaro has assumed the role.

“Big Jake” has been with the station since March, joining as an Assistant Traffic Director and working in the promotions department until the opportunity to be on air arose.

In a post to Facebook, Calgaro shared his excitement to join the Saga Communications classic rock station lineup.

“Milwaukee, your nights just got a whole lot bigger,” the new host shared. “I am beyond excited to announce that I will be taking over weeknights on 96.5 WKLH! I am extremely grateful to everybody in the building especially our GM and KLH brand manager for trusting me to lend my voice to such a legendary radio station … Let’s do this thing.”

Big Jake’s first day on the air was as host of the evening timeslot was on Monday evening. He will be heard from 7 PM to Midnight.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.

Bret Baier Amid CBS Evening News Rumors: ‘I’m Very Happy’ at Fox News

BNM Staff
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Bret Baier Amid CBS Evening News Rumors: ‘I’m Very Happy’ at Fox News

Rumors have been swirling that CBS News is eyeing Fox News anchor Bret Baier as its next anchor of CBS Evening News. On Monday, Baier effectively squashed those rumors.

Late last week, a report from Oliver Darcy of Status shared that Bari Weiss was looking to “shake up” the legacy news brand, which has consistently lagged behind competitors ABC News and NBC News in the evening newscast ratings.

One name floated at the top of Weiss’ list was Bret Baier. However, a Fox News spokesperson has confirmed to Barrett Media that Baier is under contract with the network through 2028.

In an appearance on Citizen McCain with Meghan McCain, Baier was asked about the reports and what his future held.

He quickly denied that a move to CBS News was a possibility at this time.

“I’m flattered by all the press and everything like that, but I’m in a multi-year contract with Fox,” Baier responded. “I don’t know where everything is going. I’m signed on to Fox, very happy at Fox, and we’ll see what happens at the end of that.”

After McCain noted that her husband works at Fox News and that she’s a viewer of the cable network, Baier responded by saying, “I love the Fox News viewer, one at a time.”

The statements from Baier come after CBS Evening News anchor John Dickerson announced he would depart CBS News at the end of the calendar year.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.

SonicTrek.ai Adds Amanda Hensel As MyCountry.fm Content Coordinator

BMM Staff
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SonicTrek.ai Adds Amanda Hensel As MyCountry.fm Content Coordinator

SonicTrek.ai has added a key voice to its expanding digital radio portfolio. The company announced the hiring of longtime country media editor Amanda Hensel as MyCountry.fm Content Coordinator and Director of Social Media.

In her new role, Hensel will lead the development of localized content for MyCountry.fm. While overseeing social media strategies across SonicTrek.ai’s suite of AI-driven formats.

Hensel, based in Austin, Texas, brings more than a decade of editorial experience to the role. She spent 14 years as Editor-in-Chief of Taste of Country. Where she steered coverage of country music’s biggest stars and cultural trends. Known for her authentic storytelling and sharp editorial instincts, Hensel has built a strong reputation in the country music community.

SonicTrek.ai Partner and CEO Joel Denver called Hensel’s addition a significant step for the company’s mission. Modernizing radio through AI-driven content creation.

“We are excited to have Amanda joining SonicTrek.ai in this important role,” Denver said. “Localized AI content is what will make the difference between what’s on the radio now and what will be on the radio in the near future. With our format offerings. Radio’s paradigm will shift toward a more creative playlist for each market, and the localized content from our AI hosts will draw in listeners and keep them coming back.”

That vision of personalization and innovation also defines MyCountry.fm’s approach. Brand Manager Charlie Cook said Hensel’s background and enthusiasm make her a perfect fit for the next phase of the format’s growth.

“When you’re starting something new and creative. It’s lucky to find someone who sees the potential and understands what it’s going to take to make the future come alive,” Cook said. “Amanda brings hands-on experience and a passion for the country genre. Allowing us to deliver on our promise of telling localized stories every day.”

For Hensel, the move represents both a professional evolution and an opportunity to help bridge tradition and technology.

“I’m thrilled to join the team at SonicTrek.ai and help shape the future of radio,” she said. “What SonicTrek.ai is doing with AI feels fresh, forward-thinking, and exactly what this industry needs—more localized content. It’s time to breathe new life into one of entertainment’s most enduring formats.”

SonicTrek.ai has quickly become a leader in AI-infused programming. Launching four distinct formats: MyCountry.fm, hosted by Suzanne Alexander and programmed by Cook; Phoebe: Curiously Alternative, crafted by Dennis Constantine; Starship, a reimagined take on classic rock led by Lee Abrams and Constantine; and Cool Classics, a fresh spin on classic hits programmed by Brian Kelly and hosted by Randi West.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.

ESPN Announces Third Annual Animated Monday Night Football Game Broadcast

BSM Staff
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ESPN Announces Third Annual Animated Monday Night Football Game Broadcast

ESPN, Disney, Pixar, and the NFL are teaming up once again to blend sports and storytelling in a way that continues to push the boundaries of live sports production. On Monday, Dec. 8, Monsters Funday Football will bring the Philadelphia Eagles and Los Angeles Chargers to life inside the Monsters, Inc. universe during ESPN’s Monday Night Football broadcast.

This season’s animated telecast will use the NFL’s Next Gen Stats, along with Sony’s Beyond Sports visualization and Hawk-Eye Innovations, to turn every snap, pass, and touchdown into a real-time animated experience set in Monstropolis.

The game will air at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN2, Disney Channel, Disney XD, Disney+, and the new ESPN App, while also streaming on NFL+ for mobile viewers. The traditional broadcast with Joe Buck, Troy Aikman, Lisa Salters, and Laura Rutledge will run concurrently on ESPN, ABC, and ESPN Deportes.

This marks the third straight season ESPN has experimented with its “Funday Football” concept, following Toy Story Funday Football in 2023 and The Simpsons Funday Football last December. Each edition has advanced ESPN’s blend of sports and entertainment, targeting younger audiences and families while highlighting its growing use of real-time motion tracking and animation technology.

“Each iteration of Funday Football has pushed the boundary of what’s possible in sports technology,” said Michael “Spike” Szykowny, ESPN’s Vice President of Graphics Innovation. “By blending real-time NFL data and tracking with cutting-edge animation, we’re transforming the way fans experience an NFL game.”

This year’s version will see beloved Pixar characters Mike Wazowski and James P. “Sulley” Sullivan join Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts and Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert on a fully animated field known as the “Cheer Floor,” a reimagined version of the movie’s Scare Floor. The two monsters will even sub in for key plays, competing for “Cheer Canisters” that capture fans’ cheers instead of screams.

ESPN’s Drew Carter and NFL analyst Dan Orlovsky will once again call the action as animated avatars of themselves, using Sony’s virtual commentator technology and VR headsets to interact within the Monstropolis world. Social media personality Katie Feeney joins the broadcast this year as a virtual correspondent, offering fans a behind-the-scenes look at the action and characters.

Monsters Funday Football will be available internationally on Disney+ and ESPN platforms across more than 155 markets, including Latin America, Australia, the Netherlands, Sub-Saharan Africa, and Canada.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.

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