No seriously. What’s the future of Disney? And why did Fox News fire Tucker Carlson?
Nov 9, 2023
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CNBC's media business reporter and Vox's host discuss Disney's strategy and future plans for ESPN, ABC, Marvel, Star Wars, and Hulu. They also talk about the Bobs (Iger and Chapek) and the blame for Disney's troubles. Later, they interview media reporter Brian Stelter about his book on Fox News, discussing Tucker Carlson's departure and Lachlan Murdoch's role.
Disney's lack of clear strategy raises questions about its plans for ESPN, ABC, Marvel, Star Wars, and Hulu.
Tucker Carlson's departure from Fox News was not solely due to the Dominion settlement or scandalous text messages, but rather a result of internal disagreements within the network.
Rupert Murdoch's decision to transition to a semi-retirement role in Fox Corporation signals a potential re-evaluation and restructuring of the Murdoch empire, including the possibility of selling off or reorganizing assets like Fox News.
Deep dives
Fox News and the Impact of Misinformation
The book "Network of Lies" delves into the complex and influential role of Fox News in spreading misinformation and distorting reality. It explores how Fox News was directly responsible for perpetuating the big lie of election fraud, which culminated in the Capitol riot. The book reveals the internal workings of Fox News, including scandalous text messages and exposes the impact of the Dominion defamation case. Despite criticisms and the departure of Tucker Carlson, Fox News remains a powerful force and a valuable platform.
The Firing of Tucker Carlson
Tucker Carlson's departure from Fox News was not a result of the Dominion settlement or scandalous text messages, as claimed by some. Rather, it was prompted by a multitude of factors and disagreements within the network. While Carlson may still have a loyal following and potential future influence, it will be challenging for him to reach the same level of prominence and impact without the platform of Fox News.
Rupert Murdoch's Semi-Retirement and the Future of Fox
Rupert Murdoch's decision to step back from day-to-day operations and assume a semi-retirement role in Fox Corporation has been brewing for years. It reflects a acknowledgement of age and the need for him to pass the torch to his son, Lachlan Murdoch. While Rupert will still have ultimate control through his voting shares, the transition provides an opportunity for a potential re-evaluation and restructuring of the Murdoch empire. The possibility of selling off or reorganizing assets like Fox News may become more likely.
The Complicated Legacy of Fox News
The book "Network of Lies" challenges the notion of Fox News as simply a cesspool or propaganda machine. It highlights the complex nature of the network, encompassing elements of a news operation, a lifestyle brand, and a cultural force. The book argues that Fox News played a more direct role in sowing misinformation and chaos post-2020 election than initially realized. It focuses on the interplay between Fox News and the Trump administration, as well as the significance of the defamation case brought by Dominion. The book serves as a cautionary tale about the power and impact of a media organization like Fox News.
The Future of Tucker Carlson and Conservative Media
While Tucker Carlson may still have relevance and influence in right-wing media and conservative politics, his departure from Fox News diminishes his immediate impact. It remains to be seen how he will shape-shift and evolve his persona outside of Fox. However, without the platform and backing of Fox News, it will be challenging for him to reach the same level of prominence in the media landscape. His true believers will remain but expanding his reach and influence without the support of a major network will present obstacles.
It’s a double shot of media business takes, with conversations about the Walt Disney Corporation and Fox News, with references to “Succession” in both.
First, CNBC’s Alex Sherman (@sherman4949) joins Vox’s Peter Kafka to talk about Disney’s strategy, or lack thereof. What does it want to do with ESPN? ABC? Marvel? Star Wars? And although it plans to buy the remaining third of Hulu… what the hell does it want to do with Hulu? Plus, he gives us some hot goss about the Bobs (Iger and Chapek), and which Bob is most to blame for Disney’s troubles.
Then, media reporter Brian Stelter (@brianstelter) joins us to talk about his SECOND book about Fox News, “Network of Lies.” What’s the real story behind Tucker Carlson’s departure? And what will Lachlan Murdoch do once his dad formally leaves the company?
Host: Peter Kafka (@pkafka), Senior Editor at Recode
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