John Kelly, co-founder and head of Puck, dives into pressing trends shaping the media landscape. He discusses CBS News’s struggles amidst their corporate ties to Trump, and how Fox News is solidifying its position. Kelly also shares insights on how renowned publications like 'The Atlantic' and 'The New Yorker' can adapt to thrive in an AI-driven world, emphasizing the need for innovation in the print industry. The conversation highlights the evolving relationships between media, business, and politics.
Fox News has shifted from being avoided by advertisers to gaining acceptance as a dominant player in cable news.
CBS News faces internal turmoil and challenges in adapting to new programming formats, risking further alienation of its audience.
Deep dives
The Shifting Landscape of Fox News Advertising
Fox News has seen a remarkable change in its advertising landscape as blue-chip companies are now embracing the network, which had previously been avoided despite its high ratings. After the election, over 120 major advertisers returned, representing a significant shift in corporate America's perception of Fox as a legitimate media outlet. This transformation illustrates how the channel has become a dominant player in cable news, often surpassing traditional favorites like ESPN, and is now seen as an establishment figure in the media landscape. Advertisers like Amazon and General Motors are willing to associate themselves with Fox, indicating a broader acceptance of the network's role in the current media environment.
Challenges Facing CBS News Amid Leadership Changes
CBS News is experiencing considerable turmoil as it grapples with internal discontent and programming decisions that might worsen its already dwindling viewership. The network's shift from traditional news formats towards more magazine-style programming could further alienate its audience at a time when political interest is piqued. Critics suggest that the leadership is lacking credibility and backbone, leading to ineffective decisions reflecting a lack of innovation. This situation highlights a broader trend in legacy media, where failing to adapt quickly can lead to a swift decline in relevance and viewership.
The Future of Print Magazines in the Age of AI
The conversations surrounding the future of iconic magazines like The Atlantic and The New Yorker reveal a complex relationship between print media and technological disruption, particularly from artificial intelligence. Both leaders express a strong connection with their readers, aiming to maintain print editions while recognizing the challenges posed by digital platforms. However, expanding print issues might send mixed signals about the company's adaptability in a rapidly changing media landscape. The pressing question remains whether these traditional businesses can innovate enough to thrive amidst emerging technologies while retaining their loyal subscribers.
In this exclusive bonus episode of The Grill Room, Jon Kelly joins Dylan to tackle a handful of hot button topics shaping the media industry: the hunger screams at CBS News, the baffling corporate embrace of Trump 2.0., and Fox News’s continued march into mainstream. They also discuss how storied print publications like ‘The Atlantic’ and ‘The New Yorker’ can future proof their businesses in the age of A.I.