Doug Herzog

Doug Herzog, former President of Viacom’s Music and Entertainment Group, shares his journey from early cable TV to defining MTV's cultural landmark. He dives into MTV's original concept, the rise of iconic shows like The Real World, and the transformation of music videos into cultural phenomena. Herzog discusses behind-the-scenes moments of the VMAs, the daring talent casting, and how MTV shaped youth culture. He reflects on the industry's evolution, the importance of taking creative risks, and the lasting impact of MTV's unique voice on generations.

Doug Herzog, former Viacom executive known for greenlighting iconic shows like South Park, and Matt Belloni, founding member of Puck News, dive into the fascinating history and current challenges of Paramount Pictures. They discuss the studio's evolution from a Hollywood giant to navigating the competitive streaming landscape. Herzog shares insights on the cultural impact of MTV and Comedy Central, while Belloni explores Paramount's strategic missteps and the future of its film library amid the rise of digital platforms.