Home Blog Page 41

Gracie Awards Open Nominations for 2027 Ceremony

Garrett Searight
-
0
Gracie Awards Open Nominations for 2027 Ceremony

The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation has opened nominations for the 2027 Gracie Awards. The annual honors recognize outstanding work by, for and about women across media.

What We Know: The 52nd Annual Gracie Awards will recognize achievements across television, streaming, radio, podcasting and digital media. The 2027 Call for Entries welcomes submissions from individuals, networks, production companies and organizations.

This year, podcast entries will compete in a dedicated division separate from Digital Media. New categories include Digital/Social Short-Form Standalone Video or Series, Video Podcast Co-Host/Ensemble and Audio Documentary/Narrative Non-Fiction in Podcast. The Video Podcast category also now separates Lifestyle/Entertainment/Sports from News/Investigative/Education. Entries must cover work produced between January 1st and December 31st, 2026. The early-bird deadline is December 10th, while the final deadline is January 21st, 2027. National winners will attend the Gracies Gala on May 25th in Beverly Hills. Local and student winners will be honored at the Gracies Luncheon on June 15th in New York.

What They Said: “Each year, the Gracie Awards recognize work that does more than capture attention; it informs, entertains and ensures women’s voices and perspectives are seen and heard. The entries we receive reflect the breadth and impact of work reaching audiences across platforms and communities. We look forward to honoring the content that moved audiences in 2026 and continuing the Gracies’ long-standing investment in the people who will shape what comes next.” -AWMF President Becky Brooks

What Remains Unclear: The foundation hasn’t detailed when it will release the nominations.

What It Means: The expanded categories reflect changes in how audiences consume media. By establishing a dedicated podcast division and recognizing emerging digital formats, the Gracie Awards continue to acknowledge work across an evolving media landscape. Heather Cohen, Annie Howell and Mike McVay will return as co-chairs for the 2027 awards.

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.

Netflix Reportedly Set To Cut 5% From Workforce

John Mamola
-
0
Netflix Reportedly Set To Cut 5% From Workforce

Netflix reportedly is planning to cut about 5% of its workforce. An announcement could come as early as next week, according to Puck News.

What We Know: Puck cited people familiar with the matter in its Friday report. Netflix had about 16,000 full-time employees at the end of last year. A cut of roughly 800 jobs would be the company’s largest since 2022. That year, Netflix shed hundreds of positions amid slowing growth and subscriber losses. Netflix declined to comment on the report.

What’s At Stake: Netflix’ stock has been in a slow freefall for most of the year due to lower than expected engagement with the platform. The streaming platform has been very active in investing in podcasts and live events programming for the past year. It’s also dealing with YouTube, who is steadily drawing a larger share of viewers and advertising spending.

What Remains Unclear: Netflix has not said which departments face cuts. Likewise, the company hasn’t publicly explained its reasons.

What It Means: Notably, the cuts wouldn’t follow a weak quarter. Second-quarter revenue hit $12.56 billion in July, up 13% year over year, with $3.4 billion in net income. Still, shares fell more than 8% after hours once Netflix narrowed its 2026 revenue range to $51–$51.4 billion. Ultimately, the company is betting on ads, live programming and gaming, with ad revenue expected near $3 billion this year.

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.

Gregg Henson Absent From 1040 WHO After Controversial Cornell Rape Case Comments

Garrett Searight
-
0
Gregg Henson Absent From 1040 WHO After Controversial Cornell Rape Case Comments

Gregg Henson has been absent from 1040 WHO following controversial comments about the Cornell rape case. The program director and host hasn’t appeared on the station this week after reportedly insulting the alleged victim during a recent broadcast.

What We Know: Henson reportedly called the alleged victim in the Cornell rape case a “lying slut,” among other insults, during his program on Friday, October 2nd. However, he denied using that language in a statement to the Des Moines Register. Audio from Henson’s Friday program is no longer available on the station’s website or the iHeartRadio app. Meanwhile, fill-in hosts, including Chris Krok, have taken his place this week. The Gregg Henson Show airs from 9-11 a.m. on 1040 WHO and 600 WMT in Cedar Rapids. Henson joined the station earlier this year.

What’s at Stake: Henson’s reported remarks have drawn criticism on social media, where some listeners have lambasted the host over his comments. Additionally, at least one Des Moines-area advertiser announced on social media that she was pulling her commercials from the station following the incident. iHeartMedia did not return requests for comment.

What Remains Unclear: Neither Henson’s return to the airwaves nor his future with 1040 WHO has been established. The station’s plans for its midday programming also remain unclear as fill-in hosts continue to appear in his place. It’s unknown whether the station will address the controversy publicly or whether additional advertisers will respond to the situation.

What It Means: Henson’s absence comes as the controversy surrounding his reported comments continues to generate attention. Although he has denied using the alleged language, the missing broadcast audio and advertiser backlash have added uncertainty. For now, listeners will have to wait for clarity on whether Henson will return to The Gregg Henson Show.

FOX Nation Creates Entire Harry Houdini Series Using AI

Garrett Searight
-
2
FOX Nation Creates Entire Harry Houdini Series Using AI

FOX Nation is using artificial intelligence to tell the story of legendary magician Harry Houdini. The streaming service will debut an entirely AI-generated series about the famed escape artist.

What We Know: FOX Nation will premiere Houdini: Back from the Dead on Wednesday, October 14th. The series will use AI-generated imagery throughout its full-length production to recreate Houdini’s tricks and bring his story to life. The debut also comes ahead of Halloween 2026, which will mark the 100th anniversary of Houdini’s death. The production represents a new approach to historical storytelling for the streaming service.

What They Said: “FOX Nation is breaking new creative ground by using emerging technology to bring one of history’s most fascinating figures to life for a modern audience. We’re proud to showcase a new form of historical storytelling that allows viewers to experience Houdini’s remarkable life in his own words, while remaining rooted in extensive research and historical accuracy.” -FOX Nation President Lauren Petterson

What Remains Unclear: FOX Nation hasn’t detailed how the production developed its AI-generated imagery or which tools and technologies it used. The streaming service also hasn’t outlined the series’ episode count, runtime, or how it will balance historical documentation with AI-generated recreations.

What It Means: FOX Nation’s decision highlights how streaming platforms are exploring artificial intelligence to produce historical programming. By building an entire series around AI-generated material, the service is testing how the technology can recreate figures and events from the past. The production also raises questions about how audiences will respond to AI-driven depictions of historical figures and whether the approach could become more common in documentary-style entertainment.

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.

104.3 The Score’s Jarrett Payton Reflects On Passing Of Former NFL Head Coach Mike Ditka

John Mamola
-
0
104.3 The Score’s Jarrett Payton Reflects On Passing Of Former NFL Head Coach Mike Ditka

Chicago Bears legend Mike Ditka has died at 86. 104.3 The Score’s Jarrett Payton broke the news Friday after receiving confirmation of Ditka’s passing and reflected on his personal relationship with the former NFL head coach.

What We Know: Ditka starred at tight end for the Bears, Eagles, and Cowboys across 12 NFL seasons. Later, he became the first tight end elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. As a coach, he led Chicago to a Super Bowl XX title and finished 121-95 with the Bears and Saints. Afterward, he built a second career as a longtime NFL analyst, most notably at ESPN. Payton, son of Bears hall of fame running back Walter Payton, broke the news to the 104.3 The Score listening audience and shared his immediate reaction to the news.

What They Said: (All quotes via 104.3 The Score’s Haugh & Payton Show):

Jarrett Payton announcing the passing of former Chicago Bears head coach Mike Ditka: “It saddens me to give this information to the city of Chicago. Everybody knows how much Coach [Mike Ditka] means to me, my family, the city, and the Chicago Bears. He has been nothing but an amazing person for my entire family. But also somebody that always made sure that I was okay, that our family was okay, and always kept up with us. Any time that I needed him, he was always there.”

Jarrett Payton on the impact that Mike Ditka had in his football career: “The game of football. Being able to do it at such a high level on the field, but then also what he did as a coach as well. The lives that he has impacted throughout his way, teammates and also guys that he coached. Everybody has their opinion on the coach. But when it comes down to it, he did it his way, and he won.”

What Remains Unclear: So far, no cause of death has surfaced publicly. Likewise, funeral and memorial plans remain unknown. It’s also unclear how the Bears will honor Ditka this season.

What It Means: For Chicago, Ditka’s death closes a defining chapter in Bears history. Moreover, Payton’s tribute carried personal weight. After all, his father, Walter Payton, starred on Ditka’s 1985 Super Bowl winning team. As a result, the moment resonated far beyond a typical on-air announcement.

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.

Mike Ditka, Longtime NFL Player, Coach and Analyst, Dies at 86

Garrett Searight
-
0
Mike Ditka, Longtime NFL Player, Coach and Analyst, Dies at 86

Mike Ditka, the Pro Football Hall of Fame tight end and former Chicago Bears coach, has died at 86. He later became a familiar voice to NFL fans through decades of television and radio analysis.

What We Know: Ditka built a second career in sports media after the Bears fired him following the 1992 season. He joined NBC as an analyst before returning to coaching with the New Orleans Saints. After his tenure in New Orleans, Ditka joined CBS Sports as an analyst on The NFL Today. He later became a regular contributor to ESPN, appearing on NFL Live and Sunday NFL Countdown. Additionally, he worked on the pregame show for Westwood One’s Monday Night Football broadcasts. Ditka also made regular appearances on sports radio stations, including Seattle’s 950 KJR and Chicago’s ESPN 1000.

What He’s Remembered For: Ditka left his mark on professional football as both a player and a coach. He played 12 NFL seasons with the Chicago Bears, Philadelphia Eagles and Dallas Cowboys before becoming a head coach. His greatest coaching achievement came in 1985, when he led the Bears to a Super Bowl XX victory over the New England Patriots. Ditka later coached the Saints from 1997 through 1999. His outspoken personality and distinctive presence also made him a recognizable figure in sports broadcasting.

What Remains Unclear: Further details surrounding Ditka’s death, including the circumstances and any statements from his family, weren’t immediately available.

What It Means: Ditka’s death marks the loss of a prominent figure whose career spanned playing, coaching, and broadcasting. His work with NBC, CBS Sports, ESPN, and Westwood One helped extend his reach beyond the sidelines. Meanwhile, his connection to Chicago and the Bears cemented his place among the most recognizable personalities in NFL history.

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.

Charles Davis Reveals He Found Out About ESPN Layoff From Social Media

John Mamola
-
0
Charles Davis Reveals He Found Out About ESPN Layoff From Social Media

ESPN cut Charles Davis from NFL Network earlier this summer. Now, the CBS Sports lead college football analyst is explaining how he found out in an exclusive interview with Barrett Media.

What We Know: Davis spent nearly two decades at NFL Network. He contributed to its NFL Draft and Scouting Combine coverage since 2007. However, ESPN completed its takeover of NFL Network in April, and layoffs followed in July. The Athletic reported his exit July 21, amid cuts that also hit Ryan Clark, Tom Pelissero and others. Meanwhile, Davis had already landed a bigger role, replacing the retired Gary Danielson as CBS’ lead college football analyst. In an exclusive interview with Barrett Media, Davis revealed that he learned the news through social media while visiting Walt Disney World in Florida with his family.

What They Said: (All quotes via Barrett Media):

Charles Davis on how he found out he was laid off by ESPN: “I didn’t find out the way you should find out. I didn’t have a boss call me or give me a heads-up. Instead, I was in the Magic Kingdom with my wife, our son and nephew. We saw it on social media right as we were about to ride Space Mountain. I cannot make that up. We hopped on Space Mountain and had to deal with it afterward. Then I heard from a person who should have told me that before it all went down about an hour later.”

Charles Davis on the uncertainly he felt when NFL Network and ESPN were merging: “When something like that happens, you naturally wonder, ‘Am I for them?’ You can’t help but wonder unless they contact you and say, ‘Don’t worry about a thing, and you’re in.’ But I didn’t have that. That’s their company and their prerogative. I’m not guaranteed anything. I knew I was vulnerable because I didn’t know who wasn’t.”

What Remains Unclear: Still, Davis’ did not name the person who eventually contacted him. Davis’ revelation falls in line with how several members of ESPN’s latest layoffs reportedly found out about their dismissal. From Ryan Clark to Karl Ravech and others.

What It Means: Ultimately, Davis’ story shows how impersonal media consolidation can feel, even for seasoned veterans. However, Davis knew his primary focus would be becoming CBS Sports’ lead college football analyst. In the coming weeks, Davis shares with Barrett Media details about how he navigated the process of stepping in for Danielson and much more.

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.

Chris Simms Doesn’t Feel Mike Tomlin Will Stay Long Term With NBC Sports

John Mamola
-
0
Chris Simms Doesn’t Feel Mike Tomlin Will Stay Long Term With NBC Sports

Chris Simms doesn’t expect Mike Tomlin to stay in television for long. The NBC Sports analyst believes today’s coaching salaries could pull Tomlin back to the sidelines sooner than later.

What We Know: Tomlin joined NBC’s Football Night in America this season after 19 years leading the Pittsburgh Steelers. Meanwhile, his arrival came amid a major overhaul of the pregame show. Soon after, Simms, an NBC analyst since 2016, learned he would lose his seat on the program’s panel. In an exclusive interview with Barrett Media, Simms says while it hurts to no longer be a part of Football Night In America, he feels Tomlin isn’t staying long term either.

What They Said: (All quotes via Barrett Media):

Chris Simms thinks Mike Tomlin will likely take a head coaching role if it’s the right fit: “I don’t see him [Mike Tomlin] staying long term. He’s really good at it, but I think he’s a great coach. He’s a great leader of men. Also, the best communicator of any coach I’ve ever been in a locker room with. But the way they’re paying these coaches now, if there’s a situation he likes, I don’t think he’ll turn it down. That’s just a guess.”

Chris Simms on no longer being a part of NBC Sports Football Night In America: “It stings I’m not on that show anymore. I did love doing it, and it kind of felt like it was coming that way. When they tell you you’re awesome on the show and grading higher than anybody every week, then you don’t get to go on the show in the future, you’re a little confused by it.”

What Remains Unclear: However, it remains unclear how long Tomlin plans to stay at NBC. Andrew Marchand has reported that NBC gave Tomlin a backloaded deal to encourage him to stay. Still, Tomlin has said he hasn’t thought much about coaching again. Furthermore, Simms’ path back to the panel remains uncertain.

What It Means: Ultimately, Simms’ comments highlight a growing challenge for TV networks. Top NFL coaches now earn salaries that networks may struggle to match. Consequently, NBC could face another shakeup sooner than expected. For now, though, Tomlin remains the centerpiece of the show. As for Simms, with a under two years on his current NBC Sports agreement, he told Barrett Media he wouldn’t dismiss any idea of moving independent if the decision fits his goals.

Why Chris Simms Has No Interest in Following the Traditional Sports Media Playbook

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.

Boomer Esiason On Radio Hall of Fame Induction: “A Very Thoughtful Night”

John Mamola
-
0
Boomer Esiason On Radio Hall of Fame Induction: “A Very Thoughtful Night”

Boomer Esiason is officially a Radio Hall of Famer. The WFAN morning host reflected on Thursday’s Chicago ceremony during Friday’s Boomer & Gio.

What We Know: The Radio Hall of Fame inducted Esiason Thursday night at Chicago’s Fairmont Hotel. Seven others joined him in the 2026 class. That group includes Dennis Green, Shotgun Tom Kelly, Helen Little, Bob Pittman, Rickey Smiley, Charlie Van Dyke and Fred Winston. Meanwhile, industry voters chose six inductees, while the nominating committee selected Green and Pittman. Esiason flew back to New York City for his program Friday morning on WFAN, and reflected on the honor to open his program.

What They Said: (All quotes via WFAN’s Boomer & Gio):

Boomer Esiason appreciates the evening being inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame: “It was just really well done. Just a very thoughtful night. I appreciate all the attention that was garnered on me for that. It was fun. Also brought back memories of Monday night football of going in and out. It was very nice, and I’m very appreciative of the honor. Certainly, I’m very glad to represent this radio station, our market, our company, and of course our team here at Boomer and Gio.”

Boomer Esiason on his passion for radio: “All of us in this radio business love this medium. We love it. This is all about the Radio Hall of Fame and honoring people who have been in the business for a long time. It’s not just on-air people. It’s people behind the scenes that really care about it. They built a new radio hall of fame museum, and it’s in Chicago, of course. So, it was great.”

Boomer Esiason joked that not everyone knew who each other was: “These are all crazy radio people, like we are. It’s very interesting seeing them, talking to them, and being around them. Realizing how much I love this particular medium and why I love this medium so much. But we’re all in a bubble. We’re all in our own little bubble. I don’t know if half the people even knew who the hell I was.”

What Remains Unclear: However, it’s unclear if WFAN will mark the honor with any on-air tribute in addition. Esiason also didn’t share any details of his induction speech on the program. It’s unclear if his speech will be published online.

What It Means: Ultimately, the honor caps a remarkable second act for the former NFL quarterback. After all, Esiason has anchored WFAN mornings for nearly two decades. Furthermore, his induction shows sports talk earning a bigger seat at radio’s table. As a result, the moment also reflects well on WFAN, Audacy and the Boomer & Gio team.

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.

Skydance Merger Reportedly Could Bring “Bloodbath” To TNT Sports, CBS Sports Combining

John Mamola
-
0
Skydance Merger Reportedly Could Bring “Bloodbath” To TNT Sports, CBS Sports Combining

CBS Sports and TNT Sports are beginning to merge under Skydance. However, the combined division will reportedly shed jobs and sports rights along the way.

What We Know: Skydance has promised investors roughly $6 billion in synergies from combining Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery. Meanwhile, CBS Sports president David Berson will lead the new sports entity. According to Puck’s John Ourand, the NFL, March Madness, UFC, and the Masters remain untouchable. In contrast, TNT’s post-NBA deals for the College Football Playoff, Big 12, and French Open could face cuts. One top sports executive telling Ourand that the assuming is the merger could be a “bloodbath” with more sports rights than the newly merged company needs.

What’s At Stake: Under Skydance, nearly every major sports property has tentacles with the new company minus the NBA. Meaning several rights could be up for grabs by other networks meaning less overhead needed. There’s also been some rumblings that executives are looking into the possibility of some TNT Sports properties navigating ways to simulcast on CBS Sports for added reach. This would be beneficial for larger properties including the licensed games for the college football playoff.

What Remains Unclear: Specifically, the timeline for layoffs and rights exits remains uncertain. One executive told Ourand the final entity should take shape within the next month or two. Additionally, TNT’s MLB and NHL packages, worth over $700 million annually, could face scrutiny before expiring in 2028.

What It Means: Ultimately, Skydance’s sports division will cut costs through layoffs and selective rights exits. Ourand notes the company may not wait for deals to expire, citing Fox’s 2020 USGA exit as precedent. Still, the new entity wants growth, too. For instance, one senior media executive floated an aggressive U.K. Premier League bid to boost Paramount+ internationally.

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.

1...404142...2,870Page 41 of 2,870