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Prime Video Adds Interactive Broadcast Enhancements To NFL Presentation

John Mamola
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Prime Video Adds Interactive Broadcast Enhancements To NFL Presentation

Thursday Night Football officially kicks off September 17 on Prime Video. New AI features and bet tracking headline the 2026 season new viewing experience.

What We Know: Prime Video returns with Thursday Night Football, building on the most-watched season in the franchise’s 20-year history. The opener pits the Buffalo Bills against the Detroit Lions at the brand-new Highmark Stadium. Al Michaels and Kirk Herbstreit anchor the booth again. Host Charissa Thompson, alongside analysts and former NFL stars Tony Gonzalez, Richard Sherman, Ryan Fitzpatrick and Andrew Whitworth comprise TNF’s celebrated pregame, halftime and postgame coverage for the fifth-straight year. Taylor Rooks provides features with the game’s brightest stars, and NFL reporter James Palmer delivers news from around the league. Marshawn Lynch and his Emmy-nominated ‘N ‘Yo City segments also return.

What’s New For 2026: Prime Insights adds five AI tools: Defensive Alerts flags blitz threats pre-snap, and Pocket Health visualizes pocket pressure. Coverage ID reveals defensive schemes in real time, while Pressure Alert tracks backfield penetration. An End of Game Suite maps comeback paths and clock scenarios. Elsewhere, Key Moments curates highlights instantly, and Rapid Recap catches late-joining fans up in minutes. A FanDuel bet-tracking integration also debuts this season.

What Remains Unclear: The release doesn’t specify how quickly Prime Insights features move from the Prime Vision test stream to the main broadcast. It’s also unclear how broadly FanDuel’s bet-tracking tool will roll out beyond this season’s initial launch.

What It Means: AI tools like Defensive Alerts and Pocket Health push NFL broadcasts further into predictive, real-time analytics. Moreover, personalized bet tracking deepens the tie between streaming platforms and legal sports betting. Together, the additions aim to hold both casual and hardcore fans through every Thursday night window.

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.

John Catsimatidis: ‘Only Way to Get Fired From WABC is Being Fake News’

Garrett Searight
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John Catsimatidis: ‘Only Way to Get Fired From WABC is Being Fake News’

John Catsimatidis says he plans to address an issue involving Worldwide News Network coverage of the Republican National Convention. The 77 WABC owner made the comments while appearing on Sid & Friends in the Morning.

What We Know: The comments came during a discussion about reports of empty seats at the Republican National Convention. Catsimatidis, who owns 77 WABC, said someone at Worldwide News Network made a similar observation about the convention. The discussion centered on coverage of the event and the reaction from Catsimatidis and former President Donald Trump.

What They Said: “The only way you can get fired from WABC is being fake news … Somebody from our Worldwide News Network — who I’m gonna deal with — said the same thing. They said there were empty seats. At one o’clock in the morning. I was listening. I heard it. Trump heard it. We’re gonna deal with it. You wanna be woke? Go work someplace else.” -John Catsimatidis

What Remains Unclear: Catsimatidis didn’t identify the Worldwide News Network employee he was referencing. He also didn’t explain what action he plans to take or whether the employee could face disciplinary measures. Additionally, he didn’t provide further details about the specific report or comment that prompted his reaction.

What It Means: Catsimatidis’ comments indicate the convention coverage has drawn scrutiny within his media operation. However, he hasn’t publicly detailed what changes, if any, will follow his stated intention to address the matter.

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.

97.5 The Fanatic Adds Former Barstool Sports Personality Adam “Smitty” Smith in Rotational Role

John Mamola
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97.5 The Fanatic Adds Former Barstool Sports Personality Adam “Smitty” Smith in Rotational Role

Adam ‘Smitty’ Smith is joining Philadelphia sports radio 97.5 The Fanatic. The former Barstool Sports personality joins the station as a part-time contributor.

What We Know: Smith spent more than a decade building his name at Barstool Sports, becoming one of its most recognizable Philadelphia voices. Moreover, he’s adding 97.5 The Fanatic to his plate, appearing on Marks & Salciunas and other programs throughout the week. According to Smith, the move reflects a shift away from Barstool’s reality-show content toward Philly sports coverage. Now, he wants to focus on the city’s four major teams full-time.

What They Said: (All quotes via 97.5 The Fanatic)

Adam Smith on coming to 97.5 The Fanataic: “Scott’s [Masteller] given me the opportunity. He’s been great. I’m very grateful for that. I’m going to start out just being in the mix and pop it in here and there, being a utility player. We’ll see where it goes.”

Adam Smith on the excitement of Philadelphia sports right now: “We are in the midst of one of the greatest Philadelphia sports runs in history. I know Bill [Colarulo] and Ricky [Bottalico] had this segment on a couple weeks ago. When have you seen all four teams have a shot every single night to tune in and something to play for? Something to get excited about? We are here, we are alive, and I’m ready to get back in the mix. I’m pumped.”

Adam Smith on why he decided to join 97.5 The Fanatic on a part time basis: “I am excited to be talking Philly sports 24/7. Now, there’s a lot of stuff that goes on at Barstool [Sports] that’s reality show related. This is where I want to be. I’m in the Philly suburbs living the dad life. I’m ready to get back into the weeds, and I’m ready to go.”

What Remains Unclear: Smith’s exact role and schedule remain undefined for now. He called himself a “utility player,” but how often he’ll appear beyond weekly hits is still unknown.

What It Means: Smith’s arrival adds a familiar voice to Philadelphia’s crowded sports-talk scene. Consequently, 97.5 The Fanatic gains built-in social reach and star power with Smith’s brand awareness with his Barstool Sports following. In addition, for Smith, the shift signals a pivot toward hometown sports coverage. Moreover, the move reflects Philadelphia’s booming appetite for sports content right now.

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.

Bob & Sheri Discontinues Syndication for Direct-to-Consumer Model

David Hill
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Bob & Sheri Discontinues Syndication for Direct-to-Consumer Model

Bob & Sheri discontinues syndicated distribution on December 31. The pioneering morning show pivots to direct-to-consumer instead.

What We Know The 30-year syndicated morning show will depart approximately 50 affiliates at year’s end. Tony Garcia and Sheri Lynch founded the program starting in 1996. The show earned 10 Marconi Award nominations including this year. Meanwhile, the program received induction into the Radio Hall of Fame in 2025.

What They Said “We were among the first shows to syndicate successfully,” Garcia explained. “The first AC morning show and the first to feature a woman in the lead role.” Both founders invested heavily in audience research. Lynch noted that “data from Edison Research, Tom Webster at Sounds Profitable, and our commissioned research determined this is the right time to become a direct-to-consumer brand.”

What Remains Unclear The specific direct-to-consumer platform hasn’t been announced yet. Additionally, subscription pricing and launch timing remain undisclosed. Furthermore, the complete distribution strategy awaits clarification. Finally, affiliate transition details still require disclosure.

What It Means This move signals a major shift in syndicated radio economics. Therefore, other long-running shows may reconsider their own distribution models. Moreover, the trend toward direct-listener engagement continues accelerating. Ultimately, Garcia and Lynch prioritize creative control over traditional syndication.

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.

Tony Romo Sidelined From CBS Sports At Least Till October

John Mamola
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0
Tony Romo Sidelined From CBS Sports At Least Till October

Tony Romo remains away from the CBS booth at the very least till October. His absence will continue through at least Week 3n according to CBS Sports.

What We Know: CBS confirmed its Weeks 2 and 3 broadcast assignments Monday. Meanwhile, JJ Watt will keep filling in for Romo alongside Jim Nantz, calling Steelers-Patriots this Sunday and Ravens-Cowboys in Week 3 from Brazil. Romo has been on leave since his July arrest for OWI in Wisconsin. He pled no contest to the charge earlier this month, and said he would be turning his attention to his health, family, and a return to CBS.

What’s At Stake: Romo is set to make $18 million this season calling games for CBS Sports. He has four years remaining on the deal he signed back in 2020 with the network. Whether or not CBS Sports is willing to walk away from the agreement with Romo over his OWI arrest is still unknown. But with every week that passes, it puts more pressure on a network to make a decision on a return or to cut loose.

What Remains Unclear: No timetable exists for Romo’s return, according to CBS. Also, if Romo were to return, what would comprise the booth arrangement with analysts also remains unknown.

What It Means: Romo’s absence is testing CBS’s depth chart. In the meantime, Ross Tucker continues filling in for Watt alongside Ian Eagle through Week 3. Additionally, Luke Kuechly debuts as a CBS analyst in Week 3, pairing with Chris Lewis. Ultimately, Romo’s long-term future, and his $18 million annual deal, now face real scrutiny. If CBS decides to part ways, there will likely be fallout and a settlement of some sort. If CBS decides to keep Romo, the network will also face additional scrutiny and a magnified viewing public on everything regarding Tony Romo.

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.

Stephen A. Smith Still Fighting For A Shannon Sharpe First Take Comeback

John Mamola
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Stephen A. Smith Still Fighting For A Shannon Sharpe First Take Comeback

Stephen A. Smith isn’t letting go of a Shannon Sharpe reunion. He made that clear again on Monday’s Stephen A. Smith Show.

What We Know: Sharpe stepped away from ESPN in April 2025. At the time, a $50 million lawsuit had accused him of sexual assault and battery. He settled that lawsuit in July 2025, with terms undisclosed. On Monday, Smith used his own show to make a direct, personal appeal for Sharpe’s return.

What They Said: Stephen A. Smith (via The Stephen A. Smith Show): “You know how much love I got for you. I miss the hell out of you, man. Doing football and all of that stuff. Damn it, it ain’t the same without you. I’m gonna be straight up and down about it. In my perfect world, I’m getting you back. You know, I ain’t gonna stop. I ain’t gonna rest. I’m gonna keep trying to get you back. You know how I roll, and I’m gonna keep that going.”

What Remains Unclear: Whether ESPN will act on Smith’s appeal remains unclear. Meanwhile, Smith hasn’t laid out any specific plan or timeline for a reunion.

What It Means: Smith’s tone marked a shift from strategic talk to a personal, emotional appeal. However, ESPN’s stance on Sharpe hasn’t publicly changed. Therefore, the path back to First Take still isn’t clear. For now, Smith’s message signals he isn’t giving up. Whether or not ESPN will budge on their stance regarding Sharpe is yet to be seen.

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.

Bob Bellini Retires from Saga Milwaukee Cluster Leadership

David Hill
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Bob Bellini Retires from Saga Milwaukee Cluster Leadership

Bob Bellini has retired from Saga Communications’ Milwaukee cluster after 36 years. Tyan Sartler takes over as VP/General Manager after 25 years with the company.

What We Know: Sartler’s ascension reflects a classic internal promotion. She climbed from Senior Account Manager to General Sales Manager in December 2012. Bellini joined WKLH as Program Director in 1989, then took operations duties in 2015 and became GM in May 2020.

What’s at Stake: The Milwaukee cluster operates five stations generating considerable revenue. These include WKLH 96.5 (Classic Rock), Jammin 98.3 (R&B), 102.9 The Hog (Rock), Pure Oldies 106.9, and Joy 1340 (Christian). Strong leadership directly impacts advertiser relationships and ratings performance. Sartler’s sales expertise could reshape cluster revenue generation strategies.

What Remains Unclear: Sartler hasn’t yet shared immediate strategic priorities. Additionally, the cluster hasn’t announced any organizational restructuring plans. Finally, observers await details on talent and format decisions.

What It Means: Saga demonstrates confidence in developing talent internally. The company’s retention of seasoned leaders speaks volumes about workplace culture. Furthermore, a sales-focused leader may prioritize revenue synergies across stations. This transition signals stability rather than disruption for Milwaukee radio markets.

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.

Big Tigger Returns to V103 Atlanta Morning Show

David Hill
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Big Tigger Returns to V103 Atlanta Morning Show

Darian “Big Tigger” Morgan has returned to mornings at V103 Atlanta. Prosecutors dropped charges last week, clearing the path for his comeback after two months away.

What We Know Morgan was arrested in June on aggravated battery, battery, and third-degree cruelty to children charges stemming from a domestic incident. His wife Alicia Brown told police he shoved her into an office door during an argument at their home. The incident sparked significant turbulence for the veteran radio personality. Meanwhile, his co-host Francesca Amiker filed a defamation suit against Brown, alleging false accusations of an affair and inappropriate connections to the abuse allegations.

What They Said Morgan released a statement over the weekend expressing deep gratitude to his supporters. “I want to thank everyone who stood with me and kept faith over the last couple of months,” he wrote. Furthermore, he emphasized his future direction: “My full attention from this point forward will be focused on raising my son in a positive, loving environment, and my work on and off air.” He also thanked his family, friends, employers, clients, and the community for trusting his character during the ordeal.

What Remains Unclear Prosecutors haven’t publicly detailed their reasoning for dropping the charges against Morgan. Additionally, specifics surrounding Amiker’s defamation suit against Brown remain largely undisclosed. Questions persist about potential long-term implications for Morgan’s standing in the Atlanta radio market and the broader industry. Finally, the full impact on the station’s on-air dynamics and audience perception is still emerging.

What It Means Morgan’s return signals a potential turning point for one of radio’s most visible 2026 controversies. His swift reintegration suggests both Audacy confidence and meaningful listener support despite the turbulence. The situation underscores ongoing tensions around domestic incidents in media workplaces and accountability. Ultimately, Morgan’s stated commitment to fatherhood and renewed focus may reshape how he approaches his platform moving forward.

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.

Monica Lunsford Joins Sunny 99.1 Houston Afternoon

David Hill
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Monica Lunsford Joins Sunny 99.1 Houston Afternoon

iHeartMedia adds Monica ‘Mo’ Lunsford to Sunny 99.1 (KODA) Houston afternoons. She continues her mornings role at sister station 94.5 The Buzz (KTBZ-FM).

What We Know Lunsford fills the afternoon slot that Tessa Barrera recently vacated. She joined KTBZ-FM in May 2025 and currently co-hosts the Rod Ryan Show mornings there. Before that, Lunsford spent a decade co-hosting mornings at Audacy’s 100.3 The Bull (KILT-FM). Her background also includes roles as Promotions Director at CHR i94 (WRWM) Indianapolis and morning co-host at Country 98.7 The Bull (KUPL) Portland.

What’s at Stake This move strengthens iHeart’s Houston presence across two key dayparts. Lunsford’s dual role ties together the AC and rock formats under one recognizable personality. Therefore, both stations benefit from her established audience loyalty and experience. Meanwhile, she fills a critical afternoon slot that drives listener engagement during key drive time.

What Remains Unclear The exact timing of her transition to Sunny 99.1 hasn’t been confirmed. Additionally, iHeart hasn’t announced whether she’ll eventually move to full-time afternoons or maintain the dual schedule. Thus, her growth trajectory at both stations remains open to speculation. No word yet on other potential lineup adjustments to accommodate the move.

What It Means Lunsford’s promotion signals iHeart’s confidence in developing talent across multiple properties. Furthermore, it demonstrates a strategy of leveraging established personalities across sister stations rather than external hiring. This approach stabilizes programming while building deeper listener connections. Consequently, Houston’s radio landscape continues evolving through strategic internal mobility.

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.

Gamut Podcast Network Launches American Nightmares Season 6

Garrett Searight
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Gamut Podcast Network Launches American Nightmares Season 6

Season 6 of American Nightmares brings a new investigation to the Gamut Podcast Network. The 10-part series examines the Canal Murders, a case that remained unsolved for more than two decades.

What We Know: American Nightmares: The Canal Murders premieres September 15, with new episodes released weekly. Host Brian Peter Falk revisits the 1992 murders of Angela Brosso and Melanie Bernas north Phoenix. Both women were sexually assaulted and stabbed to death. The case went cold until forensic genealogist Colleen Fitzpatrick connected the killer’s DNA to Bryan Patrick Miller in 2014. Miller was arrested in January 2015, then convicted of both murders in 2023 and sentenced to death. The season follows Falk’s investigation beyond the conviction, examining thousands of pages of documents, court testimony and original reporting.

What They Said: “Over the years, the story of the Canal Murders has been reduced to its headlines. I re-examined these crimes in full: thousands of pages of documents, months of court testimony, and exclusive original reporting. This series asks questions about justice, memory, and human frailty in ways that only a true crime saga can.” -Brian Peter Falk

“We only do true crime for two reasons. To help move a case, or to give the story back to the people who lost the most and got to say the least. This one is the second kind. It’s an incredible story on its surface, but as Brian kept digging, it became clear there was much more beneath it.” -Gamut Podcast Network President John Goforth

What Remains Unclear: Miller’s conviction established legal responsibility for the murders. However, Falk’s reporting raises questions about whether the conventional understanding of the case tells the complete story. The investigation also explores justice, memory, and human frailty surrounding crimes that shaped Phoenix for decades.

What It Means: American Nightmares enters its sixth season as one of the Gamut Podcast Network’s established true crime franchises, with more than 47 million Apple Podcasts plays and a Regional Edward R. Murrow Award for Podcast. The franchise has also contributed to renewed attention on cold cases, including a Maryland murder investigation that authorities announced they solved through genetic genealogy in 2025. Now, The Canal Murders gives Falk an opportunity to revisit one of Arizona’s most notorious cases and examine what may remain unanswered.

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