Megan Cassella, a reporter covering the Trump administration's transition, dives into Pam Bondi's appointment as Attorney General and its implications. The conversation intertwines political dynamics with Hollywood trends, spotlighting the competition between 'Wicked' and 'Gladiator II' at the box office. They also discuss the evolving dining landscape, featuring new trends like 'rip and dip' bagels and mini martinis, showcasing how culinary preferences are shifting alongside entertainment.
Comcast's strategy to spin off its cable networks aims to enhance growth in more lucrative divisions while managing declining assets.
The podcast discusses evolving dining trends, reflecting a shift towards shorter business lunches and trendier drink options in urban areas.
Deep dives
Comcast's Strategic Shift
Comcast is shifting its focus away from NBCU's cable networks, which are identified as non-growth businesses. This decision stems from frustration over the decline in stock performance associated with these networks, prompting the company to spin off this division to allow for better growth in other areas. The spin-off, referred to as 'SpinCo', aims to consolidate less profitable assets while potentially positioning itself as a buyer of other networks that could enhance its content offerings. This strategy is intended to free up Comcast's more lucrative divisions while managing the decline of its cable business.
Shifts in Attorney General Nominations
Following the withdrawal of Matt Gaetz's nomination for Attorney General, former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi has been selected by President-elect Trump to fill the role. Bondi's history as a loyalist and her involvement in Trump's impeachment defense team bolster her position, though there remains skepticism about her confirmation in the Senate. The prolonged search for candidates, including the still-uncertain Treasury Secretary role, indicates potential dissatisfaction with the current shortlist of candidates. Speculations suggest that Trump might be exploring other options as he navigates these appointments.
The Changing Landscape of Movie Attendance
The podcast highlights a significant shift in movie attendance habits, with audiences now typically visiting theaters only two to three times a year. The marketing campaign for the upcoming film 'Wicked' aims to create a cultural phenomenon to draw viewers back. This includes a massive marketing blitz that features collaborations with major brands and strategic appearances, which aim to make the film a must-see event. The trends indicate that studios are adapting their strategies to revive box office success amid decreasing attendance.
Trends in Dining Out
Dining trends have evolved significantly, with business lunches becoming more prevalent again but shorter in duration. There's a noted shift away from traditional choices like martinis towards smaller, trendier drinks, reflecting changing consumer preferences. Popular neighborhoods for dining, such as Midtown East in New York, have been highlighted as emerging hotspots, indicating a resurgence in office workers seeking post-work dining options. The Infatuation's new restaurant guide showcases these trends as they illustrate the ongoing transformation in how and where people choose to dine.
A big weekend is coming up for the box office, with Wicked and Gladiator II expected to bring in a combined $200 million. CNBC’s Julia Boorstin explains the stakes and the marketing blitzes for both movies. Puck’s Matt Belloni discusses Wicked-ator and Comcast’s rationale for “SpinCo,” its cable spinoff. Restaurant review platform The Infatuation is out with its best new restaurants of the year. CEO Paul Needham highlights recent dining trends, including “rip and dip” bagels and mini martinis. Plus, DirecTV scraps its merger with Dish, SEC Chair Gary Gensler will resign once President-elect Trump takes office, and Matt Gaetz is out and Pam Bondi is in for Trump’s attorney general pick.