Sean McManus, the former CBS Sports chairman and president, shares his rich media career journey. He reveals how he fought to bring the NFL back to CBS, highlighting why networks without the NFL struggle. McManus also talks about the evolution of sports media, the rise of women's sports, and the economic pressures of broadcasting rights. His insights offer a fascinating look at both personal milestones and industry shifts, blending nostalgia with the excitement of modern sports entertainment.
Sean McManus discusses the critical role of the NFL in sustaining network viability, emphasizing its significance in sports media profitability.
The increasing visibility of women's sports is reshaping broadcasting strategies, reflecting a cultural shift towards greater representation and investment in female athletes.
Deep dives
Redefining Electric Performance
The Polestar 3 has emerged as a groundbreaking addition to the electric SUV market, combining performance with advanced technology. This vehicle accelerates from 0 to 60 in just 4.5 seconds, showcasing its capabilities as a sports car while also providing high responsiveness and traction for improved handling. This intersection of performance and technology marks a significant step forward for electric vehicles, appealing to consumers looking for both speed and sustainability. Test drives offer potential buyers a firsthand experience of these innovations, solidifying Polestar's reputation in the EV space.
Legacy of a Sports Media Icon
Sean McManus, with a rich history in sports media, carries the legacy of his father, Jim McKay, a pioneering broadcaster who transformed sports commentary. His career trajectory took him from ABC to NBC, and ultimately to CBS Sports, where he shaped the network's reputation over nearly three decades. McManus's leadership saw significant events like the return of the NFL to CBS, a crucial turning point that reinstated the network's prominence in sports broadcasting. His recent appointment as executive in residence at UMass signifies his continuing influence and commitment to nurturing future talent in the sports industry.
The Evolution of Sports Broadcasting
The podcast discusses the transformation of the sports media landscape, highlighting the impact of streaming and changing viewership dynamics. Despite the rise of digital platforms, live sports remain a key pillar for networks, as evidenced by statistics showing the NFL dominates television viewership. High rights fees for sports broadcasts continue to escalate, complicating financial strategies for networks as they seek to attract audiences while remaining profitable. This climate creates a clear divide between high-profile events that receive significant funding and lesser-known events that struggle to gain media attention.
The Rise of Women's Sports
The increasing popularity of women's sports is reshaping media rights and viewership dynamics, driven by heightened interest from advertisers and fans alike. Networks are recognizing the potential of women's sporting events, leading to commitments to provide more prominent coverage and prime-time slots. While progress is evident, challenges remain in matching the viewership numbers of men's sports, although exceptional athletes like Caitlin Clark and Simone Biles help draw attention. This cultural shift is gradually transforming the broadcasting landscape, reflecting an evolving acceptance and appreciation for women's sports achievements.
In a special live recording of The Varsity at the University of Massachusetts, former CBS Sports chairman and president Sean McManus sits down with John for a candid conversation about the ins and outs of sports media and his decades-long run as a media exec. The duo dive into how Sean got introduced to the biz, his crusade to bring the NFL back to CBS, why networks without the NFL can’t thrive, the ascension of women’s sports, and much, much more.